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Wednesday 10am - 4pm Thursday 10am - 4pm Friday 10am - 4pm Saturday 10am - 4pm Sunday 10am - 4pm

Retford Park - National Trust NSW

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Retford Park - National Trust NSW

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Retford Park was built in 1887 and was the country home of James Fairfax AC from 1964.

The house designed by Albert Bond, is a grand rendered brick Italianate style residence sitting on acres of mature gardens.

27/10/2026

Absolutely picture perfect morning here today 👌

23/10/2026

Join us for a very special musical event, 'Her Musick Book: Scottish Baroque Concert & Presentation' on Friday 30 October, 5pm-7.30pm.

The music book in question is the Arthour-Wight manuscript. Carefully compiled in the 1730s by two young women of Scottish high society, the book was discovered more than 200 years later tucked safely inside a piano at Riversdale Homestead - National Trust of Australia NSW.

Uncover the story of the Arthour-Wight Manuscript and experience its music as it would have been heard centuries ago.

The evening includes a presentation on research into how the manuscript made its way to Australia and what it reveals about the musical pursuits and personal lives of Margrat Arthour – born into an influential and controversial Scottish family in 1710 – and her friend, Helen Wight.

The presentation will be followed by a 1-hour concert of music from the Arthour-Wight manuscript played on period instruments.

The music has been arranged for baroque violin, viola d’amore, and baroque flute, along with recorded vignettes to weave the historical sound-world of 1730s Edinburgh into the program.

Performed by Evergreen Ensemble duo:
Shane Lestideau – baroque violin, viola d’amore, research
Meredith Beardmore – baroque flute, recorded samples

Info and bookings: https://www.trybooking.com/au/event/1643237

20/10/2026

An Invitation to the table This weekend, join a 'behind-the-scenes' tour with someone who lived and worked at Retford Park for 30 years.

20/10/2026

This weekend, experience Retford Park as few ever do - through the eyes of someone who lived and worked at the estate.

This one-of-a-kind event offers an insider’s perspective, guided by Sharon Mulholland, whose newly published memoir, ‘An Invitation to the Table’, recounts her extraordinary 30-years of living and working at the estate.

Join Sharon for an intimate, behind-the-scenes tour of the house, where she will share stories of daily life, bustling household routines and the exquisite art of planning and hosting luncheons and gatherings for a fascinating array of distinguished guests.

Explore rarely seen “back of house” areas, including the kitchen, Butler’s Pantry, and cellar, before concluding the experience with refreshments on the front verandah.

Bookings: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/an-invitation-to-the-table-tickets-1992033469732?aff=oddtdtcreator

13/10/2026

28/09/2026

Join Head Gardener, Rebecca, for a guided tour of the sprawling historic gardens and experience Retford Park through a gardener’s eyes.

You’ll have exclusive early morning access to enjoy the beautiful grounds without the crowds.

The tour concludes with a delicious morning tea on the front verandah overlooking the gardens.

Information and tickets: https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/event/a-gardeners-eye-garden-tour-and-tea/

25/09/2026

At Retford Park, is also peony time, camellia time, azalea and rhododendron time...

There's plenty of spring colour to admire in the gardens on this and all weekend.

While you're here, check out our current Exhibition: Paul Thirkell - Enchanted Garden which is on until Sunday.

25/09/2026

Catch us on Better Homes and Gardens Australia tonight at 7pm on Channel 7!

23/09/2026

🌿 See Retford Park on Better Homes and Gardens Australia — then experience the gardens for yourself! 🌿

Don’t miss Retford Park on Better Homes and Gardens this Friday night at 7pm!

Join presenter Melissa King and Head Gardener Rebecca Bloomer as they explore the beautiful gardens and discover some of the stories behind this remarkable historic property.

Inspired to see more? 🌸 Step behind the scenes with Rebecca on an exclusive early-morning garden tour, offering a unique opportunity to experience Retford Park before the day begins and discover the gardens through a gardener’s eye.

Your tour concludes with a delicious morning tea on the elegant front verandah — the perfect way to savour the beauty of Retford Park.

✨ Places are limited, so book now:
https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/event/a-gardeners-eye-garden-tour-and-tea/

📺 Watch Better Homes and Gardens Australia this Friday at 7pm, then come and experience Retford Park for yourself.

Address

1325 Old South Road
Bowral, NSW
2576

Opening Hours

Wednesday	10am - 4pm
Thursday	10am - 4pm
Friday	10am - 4pm
Saturday	10am - 4pm
Sunday	10am - 4pm

Telephone

+61248611933

Website

https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/places/retford-park/

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