History of Hopewood House
[EST. 1884]
This grand estate and main residence of Hopewood House were first established in 1884 for pastoralist Ben Osborne and his wife Lucy Throsby. It was then most famously owned by Lebbus Hordern, the “Jay Gatsby” of the Hordern family fortune until 1929 - Hordern established the stunning gardens we enjoy to this day.
The estate was later home to the “Hopewood Family” operating as a children’s home to 86 babies born out of wedlock from 1942-1951. The children were raised at the Hopewood estate until the 1970’s - the children’s home ceased once the children reached adulthood. The Hopewood Family still reunite from all over Australia once a year.
The current custodians of Hopewood are Australian artist Tim Storrier and his wife Janet. Tim’s sculptures feature throughout the garden, which is maintained by Janet and a dedicated team of gardeners. Tim paints in his studio within The Pavilion building on the top of the hill, where he also has a private gallery.
explore the estate with our beautiful new estate map.
Explore the Estate
TheResidence
[EST. 1884]
Considered a ‘Grand Estate’ of the Southern Highlands there is an immense history to the residence, making it perfect for private events for smaller groups. The private dining and garden conservatory is perfect for intimate corporate & executive meetings, private events & celebrations and private dinners. The Residence verandah is perfect for soirée - cocktails, canapés & lawn games and late-night fireside contemplations & libations. The Residence can also be considered for luxury editorial shoots.
Guests: Best suited to small corporate & private events - 22 pax. Hopewood is a private residence. Use by discussion & invitation.
The Grounds
[eST. 1912-1929]
DISCOVER ACRES OF ESTABLISHED FREE-FLOWING GARDENS
Set across approx. 11 acres – Hopewood House’s established grounds & gardens are the picturesque framing for your uniquely memorable and luxurious wedding, corporate function or private event. Choose from our unique spaces including the Wedding Lawn and Aviary, Outdoor Fireplace, Hops Walk, Hedge Maze and Parterre Gardens or The Folly of Hopewood.
Between 1912-1929 the second owner of the estate; Lebbeus Horden - Grandson of Anthony Horden (founder of Anthony Horden & Sons – once the largest department store in the world). Lebbeus expanded the rural activities of the estate, established the first elaborate formal parterre gardens and is suspected to be responsible for the bird themed leadlight windows featured throughout the Residence.
Guests: Best suited to intimate through to larger groups - 150 pax.
