Peppertree at Keston, 1897
History
‘Keston’ was purchased in 1894 by Henry Nancarrow, a prominent local businessman who owned the Wellington Steamsaw Planing Mill. It’s believed the name Keston refers to the ancestral home of Henry’s wife, in Kent, England. Of the original land holding, 230 acres remain, today still capturing stunning views of Wellington Valley and surrounds. Nestled within established gardens, the main homestead, adjoining Peppertree cottage, and barn were all constructed in 1897 from basalt stone.
With a single room and fireplace, it is likely that Peppertree cottage was used as the servants’ quarters. When owners and hosts Kate & Ross purchased the property in 2012, the cottage was in a poor state, yet still retained original features and historic charm. Inspired by their travels in Europe and love of France, their dream was to one day restore the cottage and create a timeless, French Farmhouse style throughout. In 2019, Covid lockdowns presented an opportunity to begin restoration work, and by October 2024 the cottage was finally complete - a few weeks prior to Kate & Ross’s daughter’s wedding.
With a deep sense of history, Peppertree cottage features an original stone and brick facade, and internal stone walls. The fireplace, including the hanging pot & chain, remains in situ, and the hearth bricks display unique stamping, suggestive of convict origin.
Accommodation
2 Guests — 1 Bedroom — 1 Bathroom
The perfect romantic getaway for couples, solo travellers, and also a peaceful space to work, Peppertree at Keston is a luxury rural retreat for guests to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Start your stay with a complimentary afternoon tea of homemade cake or biscuits upon arrival, and admire thoughtfully-curated antiques, repurposed family heirlooms, and historic artefacts dotted throughout the cottage.
The open plan living space features a sumptuous king bed with soft French flax linens, and through adjoining French doors is a large bathroom, with spacious shower and an antique clawfoot bath with picturesque views of the surrounding countryside, ideal for long restorative soaks. Discovered in a dusty paddock at a clearing sale, the bath was transported to Sydney and fully restored at Sydney Antique Baths. Plush towels and botanical Leif bath & body products are provided for an indulgent experience.
The cottage has an intimate dining corner with a beautiful antique table, and a cosy sitting area comfortable armchairs, board games & cards, coffee table books, and novels to choose from. WiFi is available if you need to work, or spend a quiet rainy day curled up with tea and a good book.
A modern, light-filled kitchenette was designed in keeping with the cottage’s era, with a butlers sink and antique-style tapware. Included in your stay is a gourmet continental breakfast with freshly-baked sourdough bread, homemade preserves, granola, fruit and yogurt, along with locally-sourced tea and a coffee machine. The historic townships of Mudgee and Orange are just an hour away, with award-winning wineries and restaurants. There are also many farmer’s markets to visit near both Mudgee and Orange.
Outside, relax on the verandah overlooking the gardens and historic buildings surrounding the cottage, with a coffee in the morning, or evening drinks at sunset. As a working farm, guests may also spot sheep and cattle grazing in the paddocks beyond the garden fence. Spend quiet moments wandering the gardens, exploring the farm, and bushwalking. During Autumn and Winter, cosy up around the fire pit, toast marshmallows together, and bask beneath a canopy of stars.
“If we could give 6 stars we would! Peppertree cottage is wonderfully private, tucked away within the gardens of Keston Homestead and feels like a secluded retreat. Beautifully restored, from the moment you enter there’s an immediate sense of calm. Kate & Ross were also warm, welcoming hosts.”
Special Features
Romantic Getaway
Clawfoot Bath
Private Gardens
Luxury Farm Stay
Things To Do
Peppertree cottage is conveniently located just 5 minutes from Wellington, 30 minutes from Dubbo, and 1 hour from both Orange and Mudgee. Nearby Wellington is set in the foothills of the scenic Catombel Range, where the Bell and Macquarie rivers meet. As the second European settlement west of the Blue Mountains, Wellington was first established as a convict establishment in 1823, and has many well-preserved heritage buildings. The prehistoric Wellington Caves, Mount Arthur Reserve for hiking, Burrendong Dam, and Wellington Golf Course are all popular places to visit.
The surrounding region has a wide range of experiences on offer, including Western Plains Zoo, the Royal Flying Doctor Visitor Experience in Dubbo, or day trip further afield to savour award-winning restaurants and wineries in Mudgee and Orange. Orange’s annual Food Week showcases local produce and chefs (book tickets in advance!), and the Orange Wine Festival is also a popular annual event. Events in Mudgee include Mudgee Wine and Food month, Mudgee Readers Festival, and Sculptures in the Garden. Discover what’s on in Orange and Mudgee and plan your next country escape.
