Gardens Of Richmond | Prince Of Wales Hotel

BOOKINGS OPEN AT 12 PM ON THURSDAY, 8 FEBURARY 2024

Architect/s: Unknown (1825 – 1840s)

Only steps from the centre of Richmond village, this remarkable Georgian property has been well preserved in its original state, thanks to the efforts of caring owners. The home is National Trust-listed as the Prince of Wales Hotel.

Pop in and explore the large, private sandstone-paved courtyard and extensive garden. The grounds are immaculate, having been upgraded by the current owners. The original building was constructed of rammed earth in about 1825, making it one of the oldest surviving pisé structures in Australia: as a special treat for Open House Richmond, visitors will be able to view current investigations of the rammed earth portion of the building and see how the 1825 and 1842 buildings merge.

At the rear of the main house, the small cottage operated as an inn with a butcher’s shop in the yard behind. The inn was associated with the nearby stock sale yards (now a community park on the corner of Bridge and Franklin streets). With a two-storey convict brick addition to the inn during the 1840s, the Prince of Wales Hotel was established by John and James McGowan, operating as a hotel into the early 19^th century. The McGowans attracted a sporting fraternity, sponsoring pigeon shooting competitions and foot-races.

In the 20^th century, Martha Yule, a mid-wife and nurse, operated a boarding house in the old inn. She is also believed to have assisted returned World War 1 servicemen by offering the house for convalescence. The hotel was later owned by the Cooley family with Mrs Currie (Nee Cooley) who was born and died in the house, inheriting the property. Following her death in 1993, the property was sold and subsequently operated a visitor accommodation business for nearly 20 years.

The current owners purchased the property in 2018 and commenced major restoration and renovations: rejuvenating the staircase and replacing foundations. There are high ceilings, original fireplaces and character details that add to the charm of the home.

Garden opening times: Saturday 24 & Sunday 24 February 2024, 1 pm – 4 pm

Note: This is a general open; however, you must register to attend the property.

Access: garden is level, one step into the house (front and back doors).