Lawsons Estate on Macquarie Farm, 1824
The Homestead, with brick convict-built Barracks building to the left. All images by Monique Lovick
History
In 1813, Gregory Blaxland, Charles William Wentworth, and William Lawson became the first Europeans to cross the Blue Mountains. They were each given land grants by Governor Lachlan Macquarie, in recognition of their exploratory achievements. William Lawson was granted 1,000 acres on the Campbell and Fish River. Dating to 1815, Lawsons Estate is believed to be the first farm established in Central West NSW.
The original Homestead and Convict Barracks, now luxury heritage accommodation, were built between 1820 - 1824. The Homestead stands as a testament to early colonial architecture, with low doorways, spiral cedar staircase, and hardwood floors. A three-room, underground cellar features low arched doorways and handmade convict bricks.
Upstairs were the female servants' quarters, and a room believed to have been an armory. The bars on this room indicate a defensive design, typical of a time when threats were a possibility. The Homestead, which appears to be a single story from the front but is actually two, was likely constructed with security in mind, allowing a clear line of sight through the bars to the stairs. In the servants' quarters, an exposed beam in the floor, possibly originating from a ship, serves as the main support beam for the roof.
Housing 28 convicts up until the mid-19th Century, the two-storey Barracks was built by convict labour. With its handmade bricks and solid wood beams, the building is not simply beautiful, but an important part of our built heritage.
Holding fascinating historical relics, guests can view original convict signatures on the walls and fireplaces. The west wing, believed to be the kitchen room, was partially restored to showcase its 200-year old history. The Sergeant’s Quarters have also been carefully restored, and feature the original fireplaces and hardwood floors.
Remarkably, over two centuries, the property has been owned by just four families, evidence of its enduring legacy. Today, Lawsons Estate on Macquarie Farm offers guests a chance to step back in time, with a unique opportunity to experience part of Australian history.
Accommodation
The Homestead - Sleeps 18 | Bedrooms 4 | Bathrooms 3
The Main Homestead is perfect for larger groups of family & friends as a peaceful and historic country escape. Luxuriously appointed, with exceptional interior design and furnishings, the Homestead has four bedrooms sleeping up to 8 guests, with additional comfortable sofa beds that allow a total of 18 people.
Each bedroom has been uniquely designed, with exquisite attention to detail. Three feature king beds, and one has a queen bed, all fitted with pure cotton quality sheets and vintage-washed 100% linen quilt covers.
There are three modern, opulent bathrooms, one with a deep soaking bath - unwind each evening with a long soak and a glass of wine by candlelight. Plush towels, pure linen robes, and Australian botanical Leif products are provided, including body wash, shampoo & conditioner. The Homestead also has full laundry facilities to allow for longer stays.
There are several spacious living areas that provide space for everyone to relax, including a mens’ and ladies’ lounge. The light-filled ladies’ lounge, with its pale blue walls and plush white sofas, is a tranquil space to chat with friends over a grazing platter and champagne.
The mens’ lounge, with its ink-blue walls, leather armchairs and cocktail trolley, is the perfect haven for a whiskey after dinner. There’s also cosy nooks throughout the Homestead for the kids to watch movies on Netflix.
A fully-equipped, modern farmhouse kitchen is the heart of the Homestead, and preparing meals is easy with a gourmet stovetop, oven, and coffee machine. Pantry staples, coffee, tea, milk, and sourdough bread are supplied.
Enjoy casual meals at the custom kitchen bench that seats 10…or in the formal dining room, hold memorable meals at the grand 24-seat table, ideal for special gatherings and celebrations.
For an additional cost, guests can request a delicious simple continental breakfast, or more substantial breakfast platter of croissants, ham and cheese, bacon & eggs, and fruit juices. All breakfasts are created using fresh local produce. Alternatively, why not arrange an indulgent local cheese platter with local sparkling wine to enjoy upon arrival!
The Convict Barracks - Sleeps 2 | Bedrooms 1 | Bathrooms 1
The Convict Barracks accommodation features quiet, private accommodation for two. A beautifully renovated one-bedroom studio upstairs has a cosy sleeping area with luxurious king bed, a modern bathroom, and convenient kitchenette. With views overlooking picturesque farmland, the Barracks offers truly unique and memorable accommodation within one of New South Wales’ oldest buildings.
Outdoors there’s plenty to explore, including 4km of Fish River frontage - take a swim, or unwind with a picnic on the banks of the river. Play table tennis, and toast marshmallows around the fire pit. Cook on the BBQ while the kids play cricket on the lawn, and enjoy dining al fresco outside the Barracks, whilst admiring the beauty of your surrounds.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape with friends, a special family reunion, or a group retreat, Lawsons Estate on Macquarie Farm is the ultimate luxury getaway - combining historical charm with modern comforts nestled in a postcard-perfect country setting.
Exclusive Offer
Book 2+ nights and mention Historic Stays, to receive a complimentary local cheese board & bottle of local sparkling wine upon arrival!
Special Features
Country Views
Heritage Listed
Convict History
Full Kitchen
Things To Do
Bathurst, just 10 minutes from Lawsons Estate, offers a rich cultural and historical experience. Take a tour of stunning Abercrombie House, a grand 1870s mansion. In town, the Bathurst War Memorial Carillon hosts free recitals on weekends and public holidays. Spend an afternoon at the Bathurst Regional Art Gallery, one of Australia’s most notable regional galleries - and follow the Bathurst Arts Trail to discover local artists.
The majestic Blue Mountains, an hour’s drive away, are an unmissable day trip with breathtaking views, and beautiful walks of varying difficulty. Spend a day discovering the area’s quaint historic towns, including Katoomba, home to the iconic Three Sisters, Leura for its boutique stores and gardens, Blackheath, with picturesque lookouts, and Wentworth Falls, for its waterfalls and nature walks.
Next door to Lawsons Estate is Bathurst Grange Distillery for gin tastings, and Mayfield Garden, truly spectacular in all seasons, is a 20-minute drive. Visit Portland, known for its unique silos, part of the Australian Silo Art Trail. Another incredible natural attraction is Jenolan Caves, around an hour’s drive - and stop in for a traditional pub meal on the way back at O'Connell Pub.
All images by Monique Lovick Photography
