Owlpen House, Farley with its rich history and significant heritage value is now open to the public for guests to enjoy and experience in the context of its pioneering past. Designed by Mr John Hungerford & built in 1833, using convict labour, on his huge pastoral property situated just southwest of Maitland. The residence stands on the ridge originally overlooking the vast expanse of the pastoral
land. Today it is surrounded by many farming leases where cattle graze as they would have in Australia’s early settlement. The home is a classic example of Georgian style, featuring thick solid sandstone walls and cedar timbers. The sandstone was obtained from a quarry, originally located on the property. This grand old country residence is a powerful and poignant reminder of the importance of the pastoral trade in the development of our nation. Owlpen House has served as a private residence until now when the current owners have opened the opportunity for guests to stay and experience the home and property. Beneath a stately canopy of Moreton bay figs on one side and verdant jacarandas on the other, the charm of Australia's Georgian period is evident throughout this rare, solid sandstone two-storey house believed to have been named after Owlpen Manor in the UK. Location/ Location/Location
Owlpen House is ideally situated for visitors coming from many different locations to explore and enjoy what the diverse Hunter Valley has to offer. Farley is the gateway to a range of regional experiences, including the Hunter Valley Vineyards, the vibrant rural city of Maitland and the historic river port of Morpeth
We are 4 minutes drive from Maitland city centre which is clearly visible from the house with uninterrupted views across surrounding grazing paddocks. The well preserved village of Morpeth is just a few more minutes away. Owlpen House is 6 minutes from the nearest winery and only 20 minutes to the heart of world renown Hunter Valley wineries and Hunter Valley Gardens (the largest display gardens in the southern hemisphere). Whether you choose to sample wines, cheese and chocolate at the vineyards with over 100 wineries OR seek riverside restaurants, cafes, galleries, antique shops, boutiques and many other retail facilities in Maitland or Morpeth, everything is close-by. More adventurous guests may chose activities such as; hot-air ballooning, cycling, horse riding, concerts in the vines, or golfing at one of several international standard courses in the area. Accommodation
Owlpen House offers a peaceful escape from the city. Enormous Moreton Bay Fig trees, planted a century ago surround the house located on acres of sprawling countryside, with expansive 360˚views of the landscape to mountains beyond. The heritage residence offers spacious bedrooms with extensive views and private bathrooms. Each guest room has direct access to the gardens and lawns. Our air-conditioned lounge room with log fire, is a great place to relax and read or watch a movie. The music room complete with piano and a wide range of CD’s is another option for guests. Or soak up the sun and read a magazine in the sunroom with an espresso coffee or cup of tea. Another favourite place is the fernery with lots of shade and a selection of interesting plants sheltered by a huge peppercorn tree. Meals
A hearty country-style breakfast is included in your reservation and served each morning in either the dining room, the courtyard or on the front verandah. Picnic hamper lunches are available and 2 or 3 course evening meals can be arranged in advance. Owlpen House also caters for visitors by offering breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. Whether it be platters of finger food or a gourmet banquet for a small group your hosts will make sure you remember your dining experience. Farm fresh produce is sourced locally & some is grown in our own Owlpen House vegetable garden. This ensures our guests enjoy quality fresh seasonal produce. All events are exclusive to your group & bookings are essential. Our venue is available 7 days by appointment
Transport Services
With prior arrangement we can provide a shuttle service at a nominal charge for guests arriving by train to Maitland Railway Station or by plane to Newcastle Regional Airport. Guided day tours can also be arranged for excursions to the vineyards. Your Invitation
Come and join us for a relaxing weekend, or mid-week break, away from the stress of modern living. Whether you choose to sit on a bench under a shady tree and watch the colourful native parrots and birds and listen to their unique calls as they flit around the trees and shrubs of the garden, count the kangaroos as they parade past the property late in the afternoon or help collect the farm fresh eggs from our hens….OR perhaps sip tea or a cool drink on the veranda overlooking the property and the city and mountains in the distance, or find a quiet spot to read a book or magazine in the sunroom, the fernery or the courtyard….the option is yours. We encourage you to join us for a home cooked 2 or 3 course dinner in the dining room. As caterers we offer a different main course and desert each day using local produce. Morning and afternoon tea is another option available daily to our guests for a nominal charge.
