St Agnes by Prunella, 1853
History
Just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, historic Kyneton has long been a popular town for a country sojourn, tree changers, artisans and creatives. The Victorian Gold Rush in the 1850’s brought remarkable growth to the township as the gateway town to the goldfields in Castlemaine and Bendigo. Located on the gold prospector’s route, St Agnes homestead prospered during this period, the station providing travellers and diggers with meat and grain as they passed through the region. Remnants of this era can be seen nearby, including historic bluestone mills such as Ward’s Mill and Degraves Mill.
St Agnes’ history can be traced to the 1830s, when in 1838 Mr Richard Wedge took up the land, and by the end of the decade had built a weatherboard home close to the current homestead. By the time he sold the property to Edward Argyle and Nathanial Booth in 1850, St Agnes Station was the largest holding in the region, stretching between the Campaspe and Coliban Rivers from Carlsruhe to Malmsbury.
Edward Argyle was an early pastoralist who built a residence known as Rock House on the hill behind the homestead. The surrounding area is still referred to as “St Agnes Hill.” A prominent Victorian family, Sir Stanley Argyle, Edward Argyle’s son, served as the Premier of Victoria between 1932–1935.
The original homestead dates to 1853, with additions added in 1872, incorporating part of the 1850s building. From the 1950’s the property changed hands several times, until in 2000, the homestead underwent a meticulous restoration under the guidance of Heritage Victoria and Melbourne architect Craig Brown.
Currently under the stewardship of Prunella, run by creative duo Vanessa Partridge and Caris Haughan, guests are now invited to experience this gracious, heritage-listed country estate.
Accommodation
The Homestead at St Agnes is a beautiful example of elegant Victorian Italianate architecture, with its tall bay windows and cast iron lace verandahs; and inside, rich warm cedar doors and joinery, ornate marble fireplaces, and decorative cornices and ceiling roses. The original cellar rooms for storing meat, wine and dairy products are still in situ, and the brick stables, constructed c. 1876, 19th-century cottages, and boundary walls throughout the gardens evoke a deep sense of history across the Estate.
Shaped by generations, the 2.5 hectares of gardens feature heritage trees including elms, oaks and a large old mulberry tree. Reminiscent of an English country garden with sweeping lawns, lily pond with ducks, vineyard, rose garden, the Stables’ cobblestoned courtyard, and a flock of black faced sheep, your surrounds are equally beautiful as they are peaceful.
The property features three unique accommodation options, each sleeping 2 adults, that can booked separately or together - ideal for small groups of friends or couples. Period features and nods to the property’s history meld with modern amenities, including plush king beds (configured to king singles if required), large Smart TVs, and all suites capture garden or vineyard views. In each bathroom are Ortigia Italian toiletries and Baina towels, adding a luxurious European feel.
Each suite also has its own cosy sitting area, a selection of books, and vintage copies of The World of Interiors.
The Apartment
Tucked into the garden on the edge of the leafy courtyard, The Apartment is a private, self-contained oasis. Original bluestone steps lead from the bedroom to the dressing room and marble bathroom with beautiful stained glass window. There’s a separate kitchen with modern appliances, the cosy snug is a lovely spot for reading; and on sunny days, relax on the private terrace overlooking the gardens.
The Retreat
Overlooking the St Agnes vineyard, The Retreat is next to the main homestead, with tranquil garden views. With entry via the lacework verandah, it’s the perfect romantic country getaway for two. A spacious king bedroom flows into a cosy sitting room, and the large bathroom features a luxurious marble shower and freestanding bath.
The Loft
The Loft sits above the brick stables, enjoying sweeping vistas across the Estate and vineyard. Spanning the entire top floor, in addition to a separate king bedroom and dressing room, there’s a large living and dining space, kitchen, and a beautiful Juliet balcony, where you can relax and take in views across the grounds and township.
“The gardens took me back to my childhood home - the gardens, the ducks, the mulberry tree, and the beautiful historic rooms. It was like being transported back in time. A wonderful experience. ”
Exclusive Offer
Mention The Home of Heritage when booking and receive a complimentary bottle of local wine upon arrival.
Weddings and Events
St Agnes is also an idyllic country destination for special events and intimate weddings. The Homestead’s opulent Formal Dining Room can accommodate up to 24 guests, the Cellar 20 guests, and the Stables features a truly unique, private Jockey Club Bar and disco area, accommodating up to 60 guests for cocktail-style events.
Larger weddings with up to 200 guests can also be catered for, with a number of beautiful ceremony locations in the grounds, and a gorgeous marquee reception under the weeping willows.
Things To Do
Kyneton is just a five minute drive, or 15 minute walk from St Agnes. Lined with historic buildings, Piper Street is the epicentre for gourmands and antique lovers. Dine at a range of renowned restaurants, including Marchesa, Prato, Piper St Wine Co, Midnight Starling, and Fook Shing.
Along Piper and Mollison Streets, discover antiques, vintage, homewares and clothing at boutique stores Kabinett, Oliver Campbell, The Wool Shop, Third Drawer Down, Alex Muir, Red Cart Vintage, and Oak Lane.
You may also like to coincide your stay with Kyneton’s farmer’s market, held in front of St Paul’s Church on the second Saturday of each month.
The surrounding area is simply stunning in all seasons, perfect for long country walks. Five minutes from St Agnes is The River Walk, meandering along the Campaspe River, and ending at Kyneton’s picturesque Botanic Gardens, first planted in 1863.
