Nerreman Cottage, 1919
History
Nerreman Cottage was built in 1919 by Wollombi resident Stanley Williams, a treefeller in nearby Millfield. A classic example of Australian Federation-style architecture, despite being simple in design, it was constructed from the highest quality local timbers.
Stanley’s parents, William and Sarah, were living in at ‘Fairview’, located on higher ground just outside the village. When Stanley's parents retired and moved to Cessnock, he purchased their property - which included acres of picturesque river frontage along Wollombi Brook.
In the 1920's, Stanley dismantled his cottage, relocating it to his parents’ property. Fairview was demolished except for the kitchen, which featured a large wood-fired stove. His transported cottage was reassembled and positioned adjacent to the old kitchen, until in 1986 new owners joined the two buildings together.
Current owner & host Chris Griffiths and her family have lovingly restored Nerreman Cottage, preserving many original features, such as polished hardwood floors, stained glass windows and doors, high ceilings, the antique clawfoot bath, and cast iron fireplace in the kitchen. In the hallway, guests can view old photos showing the cottage when it once stood in the village, and where it stands today.
Accommodation
6 guests — 3 Bedrooms — 1.5 Bathrooms — Families Welcome
Three light-filled bedrooms - two queen, and one twin single - have each been individually decorated with a timeless country feel, and feature soft flax linens, antique furniture, and colourful stained glass French doors that open onto the verandah. Bedrooms have heating and cooling for year-round comfort, and children of all ages are welcome, with a cot available if needed.
The central bathroom captures pretty views over the paddocks and has a deep clawfoot bath for long soaks, with bath & body products provided.
The fully equipped, eat-in kitchen has everything you need to cook or bake. Enjoy meals around the table while looking out over the gardens and paddocks - often you’ll spot a family of kangaroos grazing nearby.
The pantry is stocked with olive oil, coffee, a selection of teas, milk, juice, and hot chocolate & marshmallows.
Curl up in the cosy living room on the lounge with good book and tea, or in an armchair beside the the slow combustion wood fire, with plenty of firewood for guests’ use.
After a day exploring Wollombi and surrounds, return to enjoy a glass of wine while listening to your favourite music on the Marshall Bluetooth speaker, play board games, complete a jigsaw puzzle, or watch a Netflix series on the Smart TV.
Directly off the living area is a spacious back deck, with stunning views overlooking the property. In summer, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy breakfast while listening to the birds, and for long BBQ lunches. There’s also a day bed for reading or an afternoon nap.
The front verandah also has comfortable wicker chairs, so you’ll always find a quiet, shady spot to unwind with your morning coffee, or wine and cheese overlooking the cottage’s private leafy gardens.
“The cottage has such a lovely aspect, and everything was so thoughtfully and beautifully arranged, from vintage pieces, to antiques and paintings. The perfect place to stay so close to Wollombi Village, yet so private. We could have stayed a week!”
Exclusive Offer
Book 2+ nights and mention Historic Stays to receive a bottle of local Hunter Valley Margan wine upon arrival!
Special Features
Clawfoot Bath
Families Welcome
Deck with Views
Fully-Equipped Kitchen
Things To Do
Walk into historic Wollombi Village - established in 1830, it was once a major junction on the convict-built Great North Road, now a World Heritage walk. Grab a coffee from Myrtle and Stone, then admire well-preserved 19th Century buildings along the 1km heritage walk and learn about Wollombi’s history. Enjoy a gelato at the Wollombi General Store, and the balcony at Wollombi Tavern (c. 1868), overlooking the surrounding hills is a great spot for sunset drinks.
Nature lovers can take a scenic walk to the Finchley Lookout for sweeping views, and explore sacred Aboriginal sites along the way. Take a day trip to Yengo National Park, part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area, for bushwalks and mountain biking with spectacular scenery.
And it’s a short drive to boutique wineries and restaurants, with wine being produced in Wollombi Valley since the 1850s! Stop in at nearby Undercliff Winery, Krinklewood Estate, and Stonehurst.
All images by Hannah Puechmarin
