No. 52 Bowral, 1890
The childhood home of cricket legend Sir Donald Bradman, heritage-listed No. 52 Bowral is an integral part of Australia’s sporting history.
History
With a story woven deep into the fabric of Australia’s cultural and sporting history, this beautiful late Victorian home was once the childhood residence of cricket legend Sir Donald Bradman, from age three to fifteen. Now, for the first time, you’re invited to appreciate a unique part of cricketing heritage as a deeply immersive stay experience.
Current custodians Mandy and Glen Haddon acquired No. 52 Bowral in July 2025, and have since undertaken a meticulous restoration that blends authentic heritage charm with modern comforts. Their vision was to protect the property’s historical legacy for future generations, and open the home to guests wishing to experience an iconic part of Australia’s story.
Beautiful original architectural features remain throughout, including high ceilings, polished floors, lining boards, windows & doors, and three ornate fireplace surrounds. Guests are also invited to discover historical artefacts, thoughtfully sourced by the Haddons, that tell the story of this remarkable home.
Designed for relaxation and comfort with luxurious amenities, No. 52 Bowral offers a richly historic getaway in the heart of the picturesque Southern Highlands.
Accommodation
8 Guests — 4 Bedrooms — 2 Bathrooms — Families Welcome
No. 52 Bowral sleeps up to 8 eight guests, and children of all ages are welcome - making it an ideal Southern Highlands getaway for families, couples or small groups of friends.
The interiors throughout No. 52 evoke a deep connection to both the Southern Highlands and the home’s unique history. Original art, furnishings & homewares have been predominantly sourced from local artisans and suppliers. Handpicked antiques, coupled with an intriguing memorabilia room, sensitively reflect the home’s era and fascinating past.
There are four beautifully-appointed bedrooms - two with queen beds, a twin single bedroom (Bradman’s own childhood bedroom), and a self-contained king bedroom in the original stables building. Antique cast iron beds have been updated with comfortable mattresses & luxurious bedding, and all bedrooms have heating, electric blankets, and air-conditioning for year-round comfort.
Two spacious modern bathrooms, one with a restored clawfoot bath, have heated towel rails, botanical Grown Alchemist bath & body products, and plush towels.
The light-filled, fully-equipped kitchen has been designed to make cooking your favourite meals a pleasure. In town, you’ll find a wide selection of local produce, artisan butchers, and gourmet meals prepared with regional ingredients. The kitchen is stocked with locally-produced pantry staples, including milk, jam, butter, olive oil, hot chocolate, and a selection of coffee pods & teas. Enjoy gathering for meals around the farmhouse table.
No. 52 Bowral offers several living areas for everyone to unwind, including a library & study room, lounge with classic board games, and both gas & wood fireplaces for cosy nights curled up with a glass of wine and good book. There’s also a DVD player with cricketing DVDs and movies for rainy days.
A very special part of the home is the memorabilia room, an invitation to step back in time, and learn about the history & stories linked to No. 52 Bowral.
You’ll also discover The Heritage Collection, a carefully-curated selection of iconic cricket and sporting artefacts displayed throughout the home. Each piece holds a unique connection to legendary players and historic matches. A detailed catalogue is provided so you can explore the stories behind each piece at your leisure.
Outside, the private manicured gardens are a delightful place to relax. The shady front verandah is a lovely spot for your morning coffee, or afternoon tea. In the backyard, enjoy a long BBQ lunch at the outdoor dining setting, and wander the gardens where Sir Bradman once practised his batting.
A rare and memorable stay experience, here at No. 52 Bowral is where the history of Australia’s cricketing legend lives on.
Special Features
Families Welcome
Unique History
Private Gardens
Antiques & Art
Things To Do
Stroll into Bong Bong Street, the main street of historic Bowral, where you’ll find cafes, restaurants, local pubs, art galleries, antique shops, and a movie theatre. Immerse yourself in local cricketing history with a visit to the The Bradman Museum, take The Bradman Walking Tour, and stroll around the picturesque Bradman Oval & Pavilion.
The Bowral Market is held on the second Saturday of each month, and as a top winemaking region, the Southern Highlands is home to over 60 cellar doors.
Centrally-located, Bowral is also the perfect base from which to explore other beautiful historic towns and villages, including Kangaroo Valley, Robertson, Burrawang, Exeter, Berrima, and Bundanoon.
