Retford Park National Trust

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Southern Highlands, Retford Park is a true hidden gem that seamlessly combines history, elegance, and breathtaking natural beauty. This magnificent estate, once the residence of James Fairfax, now stands proudly as a National Trust property, offering visitors an unforgettable experience.

House Tour Information:
Prepare to be transported through time as you step into the grandeur of Retford Park's historic house. The guided house tours provide an intimate glimpse into the life of James Fairfax, showcasing his exquisite taste and the opulence of a bygone era. Marvel at the meticulously preserved rooms filled with antique furniture, art collections, and captivating stories that bring the history of this stately home to life.

Spectacular Gardens:
The estate's gardens are nothing short of spectacular. A true horticultural masterpiece, the carefully manicured grounds boast a harmonious blend of formal and informal garden spaces. Stroll through the vibrant flower beds, take shade under ancient trees, and relish the serenity of the charming setting. The attention to detail in the garden design is a testament to the passion and dedication of those who maintain this natural wonder.

Opening Hours:
Retford Park opens its doors to the public on specific days, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of this historic estate. Make sure to check the official website or contact the National Trust for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and guided tour availability.

Directions:
Retford Park is conveniently located in the Southern Highlands of NSW. If you're driving, follow the scenic route through the charming towns of Bowral and Mittagong. The estate is well-signposted, and the journey itself is a delightful introduction to the region's beauty. For precise directions, consider using GPS or mapping apps to ensure a smooth arrival.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a garden lover, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Retford Park is a must-visit destination. The captivating blend of historical charm and natural splendor makes it a true jewel in the Southern Highlands crown. Don't miss the opportunity to step back in time and bask in the allure of this distinguished estate.

Passing through the Southern Highlands? Grab yourself some food from a Bowral bakery, then come here and have lunch by the pool.or anywhere else in the gardens. (And if you're an art lover, you'll want to check the tour times of the main house!)

Entering the premises on site was very easy lovely drive to the house, plenty of parking the staff on site provide warm welcome very friendly and out going. Tickets for 1 Adult is $10 each. Didn’t do the house tour however story looks very interesting would definitely go back again to do the house tour for sure. The Toilets was wow 10/10 very clean and sanitised high standards. The art gallery was ok but it’s great for children. There is also cafe on site. The gardens are spectacular also has tiny maze.

Beautiful spot to wander around on a nice day. Superb house and other buildings. Beautiful garden.

A beautiful day out exploring this stunning home. The knowledgeable and friendly volunteer guides add so much to the experience. Thank you.

Beautiful gardens and grounds. The house is magnificent, we haven't seen inside yet but we will go back on a weekend when it's open.

Peacefully weekend place to be, if you love to hear story, please join 12: 15pm house tour and national trust staff will take you to visit this house and you can enjoy the day. Tour take one and half hour, garden will take another one hour, please prepare 2-3 hour for yourself.

Very interesting house and gardens. Make sure you pre-book so you can go inside the house. Beautiful house interiors and gardens. (Good for adults, not really for kids)

Beautiful and well kept historic estate, the staffs are nice and welcoming. I Will book a house tour next time.

Grateful to James Fairfax AC for gifting this stunning property to The National Trust in 2016. So serene over the long October weekend with limited entry tix due to Covid. Thank you to those who care for the beautiful gardens. I did not have a ticket to enter house.next time! A special place indeed.

We were lucky to spend an hour wandering around the beautiful and expansive grounds of Retford Park. There is such a variety of different garden areas. An orchard, larged hedged rooms, sculptures, swimming pool, pond and sunroom, garden rooms, chicken house, stables, magnificent hedged planting out the front with a fountain and beautiful old trees scattered throughout. The staff were really nice including the kind Horticulturist on hand to chat and answer any of your questions. A really pleasant experience. Hoping to go back in Spring and see the house too. Hoping James' dog Celini is still there too. Highly recommended.

When planning a short suprise getaway for my husband's birthday I discovered this amazing place and knew we had to go. We were not disappointed. Very friendly volunteers and horticulturist who answered any questions we had about the history the garden. So many different plants and spaces to meander around in. The house is so Beautiful and picturesque a postcard. The hedged plants in front are particularly strong and so well manicured. The maze and different garden rooms were pretty. We visited in winter but would love to come back in Spring! A surprise around every corner. Thanks James Fairfax for gifting your property to the Historic National Trust for us to all enjoy!

What an extraordinary place this is. We visited on a rainy summer's day and were treated to a sumptuous experience. The dining room with its murals reminded me of Tibetan themes (although Australian) and I loved the 'homely' feel of the house with its eclectic elegance. Already planning to return for an autumn garden visit.

Beautifully maintained house and gardens. It is open the first weekend of every month and has light refreshments available or else Bowral is only a 5 min drive away with plenty of cafés.

A hidden highlands gem.

Home to the late John Fairfax, the estate is now managed by the National Trust who host open day events that allow you to explore these decadent gardens and buildings.

With a perfectly designed pool to manicured gardens including an Emu encolsure and doggy cemetary, it is definately a varied and eclectic mix.

Subscribe to the National Trust to find out about upcoming events.

Retford Park has the finest gardens in the National Trust - and I say that having visited all the Trust's properties. Mr Richard Shepherd and the whole team responsible deserve not only to be Knighted, but rewarded with entry into Her Majesty's Esteemed Order of the Secret Garden.

Impressive gardens. Some fabulous old trees. Unfortunately the house was not open when I was there; it only opens 1st weekends of May and August apparently.

Impressive heritage manor surrounded by very attractive gardens. Best time to visit is late spring when the large rhododendrons are in full bloom. The manor wasn't open for viewing when I visited but the gardens were open and in full majestic bloom.

This place is a hidden gem. Keep an eye out for the open day. The grounds recall all things Jane Austen or Downton Abbey, but rather than your average aviary, this place has an emu run! If you have never seen a "folly", this place has one, too.