Braeside Homestead, 1870
History
Establised in the mid 1870s, heritage-listed Braeside Homestead holds a rich history, and is one of Queensland’s most significant historic pastoral properties. Now a luxury farm stay retreat, Braeside also provides the unique opportunity to experience a rare, intact complex of 19th-century Queensland timber buildings, with Classicism influences blended with pastoral vernacular architecture.
Between 1879 to 1901, Braeside was transformed by businessman William Allan, and became known for its purebred Hereford herd, extensive gardens, and as a destination for social events. Over the next century, several families owned the property, with additions to the homestead constructed between the late 1890s and early 1920s.
Braeside retains a substantial amount of original, well-preserved heritage details, including timber shingles, ornate fretwork, soaring coved ceilings, brick chimneys, original doors and windows - including the homestead’s tall bay window overlooking the gardens - and the striking early 20th-century tower room, with its steep pyramid roof. Also dotted across the property are several original outbuildings, including a two-storey timber barn, two-room workers' cottage, and a 19th-century bedroom wing that was relocated to create Rose Cottage.
Accommodation
14 Guests — 7 Bedrooms — Families Welcome
Across its guesthouses, Braeside can host up to 14 guests. Families with children of all ages are welcome, and cots are available if required. Guesthouses can be booked individually, or together to suit small groups of friends and family.
Guesthouses have fully equipped kitchens with modern appliances, pantry staples, olive oil, tea & coffee, and complimentary seasonal treats. A welcome pack, with a bottle of local wine is also included as part of your stay. Braeside also offers a breakfast hamper of cereals or muesli, fresh bread or pastries, local milk, butter & condiments.
In all of Braeside’s guest bathrooms, enjoy plush towels, premium Australian-made bath & body products, Hermès moisturiser, and homemade potpourri crafted with roses from Braeside’s own gardens.
Sleeping 10 guests, The Homestead has five stylish bedrooms - four king bed rooms, and one twin single room, all with luxurious linens. Each bedroom has its own beautifully-appointed bathroom bathed in natural light, with modern amenities complemented by heritage details.
Gracious living spaces provide plenty of space for everyone to relax. The grand living room - originally the homestead’s ballroom - is a beautiful space to gather with loved ones, or simply relax with a good book or board game next to the bay window. The historic tower room, with its original timber-lined ceilings and walls is an inspirational, romantic space to spend a cosy afternoon.
On rainy days, light the fire and settle in with a film, pour a glass of wine and watch the weather sweep over the Southern Downs, or sit out on the verandah, listening to the rain on the corrugated iron roof.
The Homestead’s spacious, fully equipped farmhouse kitchen is a pleasure to cook in. With coffee machines and two dishwashers, catering is seamless for larger groups, and guests are welcome to pick their own fresh produce from Braeside’s vegetable patch. Formal and informal dining areas are designed for everything from intimate dinners, to group stays and retreats.
The Homestead connects to The Residence, the ultimate romantic escape for couples. With stunning chandeliers and views across the pool and gardens, The Residence features an elegant king bedroom and a grand ensuite bathroom with luxurious deep soaking bath.
Together, The Homestead and The Residence provide accommodation for 12 guests, ideal for families or small groups travelling together.
The Cottage is completely separate with its own private garden, ideal for breakfast on the porch or a romantic picnic. With a plush king bedroom, kitchenette and laundry, The Cottage offers affordable, cosy self-contained accommodation for couples and solo travellers.
Experience Nature at Its Finest
All guests are welcome to spend time in Braeside’s beautiful outdoor surrounds, with acres of gardens and farm land. Explore expansive heritage gardens with mature 19th-century trees, a traditional carriage driveway framed by old hedging, wisteria-covered walkway, rustic timber barns and historic outbuildings, sprawling lawns, and scenic views overlooking Turners Creek and the Southern Downs countryside.
Play a game of tennis, swim in the sparkling infinity pool, and soak away stresses in the hot tub before relaxing poolside with a glass of bubbly.
Entertain outdoors with several BBQs and outdoor seating areas nestled within the grounds, and wide, shady verandahs that are perfect for sunset drinks. In the evening, light the fire pit and toast marshmallows under the stars.
There’s also plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained, including a dedicated children's play area, gardens to explore, collecting fresh eggs from the chicken hut, and farm animals across the property including horses, chickens, sheep, goats and cattle. Children and adults alike love meeting Braeside’s adorable miniature goats Barry and Garry, and best friend Tango the horse.
Special Occasions at Braeside
With its historic charm, flexible accommodation options, and breathtaking gardens, Braeside is also a popular destination for special occasions - including small weddings, retreats, and corporate events. The team at Braeside can recommend local caterers and suppliers to help you create your dream event.
“We chose Braeside for a girls trip, and were absolutely blown away by the property, amenities and the grounds. The homestead was immaculate and we were delighted to be greeted with a gourmet welcome pack on arrival. We explored the grounds, had breakfast in the sunshine, swam in the pool and enjoyed a catered meal in the dining room. It was perfection! Highly recommend Braeside for a relaxing luxurious escape in a beautiful setting.”
Exclusive Offer
Book direct and use code ‘historicstays’ to receive 10% off a minimum 2-night stay at any Braeside property.
Things To Do
With plenty to do at Braeside, you may never want to leave during your stay! However, for those wishing to explore the surround region, The Southern Downs is defined by characterful country towns and a vibrant food and wine scene, with the Granite Belt recognised as Queensland’s premier cool-climate wine region. Discover over 50 wineries and cellar doors, breweries, distilleries and farm gates.
For those feeling adventurous, hike Giraween National Park and Main Range National Park, with the Queen Mary Falls walk featuring a 40m waterfall, where you can cool off under the waterfall’s mist on the valley floor.
Visit Stanthorpe Cheese for award-winning locally-made cheeses, and stop in at nearby Jamworks cafe for lunch and artisan gourmet preserves. Jamworks can also provide gourmet catering during your stay at Braeside. For fine dining, Essen restaurant’s menu highlights the region’s best growers and artisans.
