Kingsford The Barossa, 1856
History
Heritage-listed, Kingsford The Barossa is one of Australia’s finest luxury retreats. Set on 225 acres of rolling hills and riverbanks, with lily-filled gullies and lush sweeping lawns, Kingsford’s homestead is an iconic Australian landmark. It plays a significant role in Australia’s pioneering history, and was a popular stop for coaches and drovers passing through the region.
The homestead was constructed in 1856 for Stephen King, who in 1839 arrived in Adelaide from Lincolnshire, England. A pastoralist and entrepreneur, King built the area’s first steam-powered flour mill. With its grand Georgian sandstone facade, the substantial homestead was a reflection of his business success. The stone is believed to be from Edinburgh, brought out as ship’s ballast.
Original features include a cedar staircase and turreted porch in the Gothic style, slate flagstone entry hall, and the entrance to the steps down into the stone cellars. The cellars were used to store produce, and also said to have once held bushrangers who had held up the homestead. The original coach way to the property now forms the entrance to the Matilda Suite.
In 1865, Kingsford was acquired by John Howard Angas, son of South Australian founding father George Fyfe Angas, who raised Hereford cattle on the property. Subsequent owners continued to raise livestock and crops on the property, including the Fotheringham family, who owned the property until 1999. Kingsford then became not just a cattle farm, but a television production set. Purchased by Channel Nine as the setting for ‘Drover’s Run’ in the popular series McLeod’s Daughters, scenes were filmed inside the homestead and outbuildings on the property, including ‘Meg’s Cottage’, next to the main house.
In 2009, it was bought by Stefan and Leanne Ahrens. With family ties to the Barossa, Leanne and Stefan took pride in restoring one of Barossa’s oldest and most significant estates - opening it as Kingsford Homestead in 2012. Between 2020-2021, a new multimillion-dollar facility was added to the estate, before it reopened as ‘Kingsford’ - aptly named to represent the property’s past, present and future.
Historic Homestead Accommodation
Within the 1856 Homestead, choose from a range of individually-designed historic suites. Rich in original heritage detail with contemporary comforts, luxurious amenities include plush bedding, robes and slippers, and natural bath & body products by Leif. Each room also has high speed Wi-Fi, Nespresso coffee machine, a selection of teas, and complimentary mini bar selection.
Your stay also includes access to the estate’s signature experiences, and a nourishing a la carte breakfast each morning. Additional extras can be included at the time of booking, such as bottles of wine or charcuterie plates.
Homestead Rooms
Thoughtfully appointed, Homestead Rooms reflect the simplicity and warmth of the original homestead, with queen beds, stunning finishes, and tranquil views of country skies at both dawn and dusk.
Homestead Deluxe Room
Spacious, comfortable and elegantly appointed, Homestead Deluxe Rooms feature king-sized beds and views across picturesque pastures and rolling hills. Modern ensuite bathrooms have spa baths, clawfoot tubs or horizontal jet showers.
Homestead Superior Room
The Homestead Superior Room is on the ground floor of the Homestead with beautiful garden views. An utterly luxurious experience, the suite has a king bed and walk-in wardrobe leading to a double vanity marble bathroom, with deep soaking bath and deluxe rain-head shower.
Homestead Signature Suite
Kingsford’s premier accommodation, The Signature Suite, carries the beauty and grandeur of the 1856 into the present day, with luxury in every detail. It features a custom-made, four post king-sized bed, fireplace, and French doors that open up to a quintessential Australian landscape. The spacious marble ensuite provides the ultimate indulgence of bathing in front of the ambient fire or under one of the twin rain-head showers.
The Stonemason’s Cottage
This beautifully restored, original 19th century stone cottage is the perfect escape for couples. Hand-built by, and as a residence for stonemasons who constructed the main homestead, The Stonemason’s Cottage offers complete privacy, with its own courtyard garden. Cosy yet luxurious, it features a king bedroom, bathroom with spa bath and twin showers, and fireplace in the lounge for romantic evenings.
Peppertree Pool & Bar
Peppertree Pool & Bar is Kingsford’s relaxed gathering place, with daybeds, bar seating and views across the estate. Framed by a beautiful peppertree and historic stone walls, it’s a beautiful place to spend time.
Take an early morning dip in the solar heated, saltwater pool, or spend an afternoon cooling off and relaxing poolside while enjoying cocktails, local wines, chilled beers and gourmet Barossa platters perfect for sharing.
Exclusive Offer when Booking Direct
Click below to book direct via Kingsford The Barossa’s website, and use code HISTORIC to save 10% off standard Bed & Breakfast rates.
“Absolutely outstanding - from welcoming staff who tailored every detail, to the incredible dining, atmosphere and setting, every moment felt special. Kingsford sets the standard for luxury and comfort. The peaceful surrounds offer the perfect escape for anyone seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating retreat. Can’t wait to return soon!”
Special Features
Swimming Pool
Restaurant
Heritage Listed
Private Cellar
Experiences at Kingsford The Barossa and Beyond
Kingsford The Barossa offers an exceptional range of Experiences to choose from during your stay. With 225 acres of riverbanks and rolling hills to explore, walk one of the trails across the estate’s stunning natural landscape, before relaxing in an alfresco bush bath beside the river. The claw-foot tub is made for two, with luxurious Grown Alchemist bath salts, fluffy robes, towels and sun lounges.
Kingsford proudly celebrates the Barossa Valley’s best food and wine. Follow the 25-metre wine tunnel beneath the estate to a guided wine tasting in one of Kingsford’s vaulted wine chambers, or the historic cellar. Dine at Orleana Restaurant, with a menu that featues seasonal ingredients harvested onsite, nearby growers, and artisan producers. End the evening with post-dinner drinks in the KegelBahn, while testing your skills at the German-inspired 9-pin game.
Start your day with an adventure in one of Kingsford’s ATVs, taking you to view stunning natural vistas. You can also stop for a picnic while watching the sunrise. And for a truly unforgettable day, take a scenic helicopter flight across the Barossa to Monarto Safari Park for a full day of safari wildlife, gourmet food and wine.
Alternatively, the team at Kingsford can tailor a unique itinerary to your needs - whether it’s a culinary getaway, corporate event, a milestone celebration, or rejuvenating wellness escape with in-room spa treatments, yoga, and meditation.
You’re also just a short drive from some of Australia’s most iconic, award-winning wineries and cellar doors, including Henschke, Yalumba, Seppeltsfield, Torbreck, Penfolds, Kaesler, and Jacob’s Creek. Adelaide is just 45 minutes away, with the 50-hectare Adelaide Botanic Garden, the South Australian Museum, and popular Adelaide Central Market.
