The Barracks Tocal, 1835
The Barracks Tocal, and Tocal Homestead together form one of Australia’s oldest working farms. Photos by Adam West Photography
History
The Barracks sits at the very heart of Australia’s convict history, originally housing convicts and ticket-of-leave men. It is situated on the property of one of Australia's oldest working farms, Tocal, with James Webber receiving a land grant in 1822. In 1834, Tocal was sold to Caleb & Felix Wilson, who built Tocal Homestead that was finally completed in 1841. It formed the centrepiece of surrounding timber, brick and stone buildings, many of which were sadly destroyed by fire in 1835. To the south of The Barracks stood a wash-house or store, and to the east was a slab-hut kitchen.
Today, Tocal is a prominent working farm, with five agricultural enterprises spread over 5,500 acres in the Paterson Valley. A painstaking restoration spanning 40 years has returned The Barracks to its original glory, but with additional modern-day comforts. The building has significant historic architectural detail, including original window panes that were fitted sideways, original internal doors, high ceilings, and exposed brickwork throughout, with bricks fired in an old kiln on site.
Photos by Adam West Photography
Accommodation
The Barracks now offers luxurious accommodation for adults, with four beautifully-appointed suites, each named after the first convicts who accompanied James Webber to Tocal: James Hazell, Stephen Hover, Thomas Smith and John Waggoner. Their fascinating stories have been provided for guests to read.
On the ground floor, each suite has its own bathroom with complimentary amenities; and a tastefully furnished, cosy sitting room with fireplace, comfortable armchairs and dining setting. There’s also a kitchenette with toaster, tea & coffee making facilities, milk & biscuits restocked daily, as well as a breakfast hamper with seasonal fresh local produce, locally-made sourdough bread, and condiments.
Upstairs the Hazell, Smith and Waggoner suites all have queen beds, and the Hover room has two king single beds, perfect for friends travelling together. Hazell and Waggoner suites have the additional option for a roll-away bed. The Barracks suites do not have TVs, to encourage guests to fully unwind and immerse themselves in the surrounding countryside. There are board games provided, plenty of quiet time to read or write, or simply relax on the veranda with a glass of wine, enjoying the farm views and striking sunsets.
Tocal Homestead
During their stay, guests are more than welcome to explore the grounds and various heritage outbuildings. Tocal Homestead is open on Sundays - so if your stay includes a Sunday, or you’re checking out that day, guests will receive a complimentary voucher for a free audio guide tour. Soak up the atmosphere of this magnificent Georgian building, while learning about the original architects, bushrangers, convicts and cattlemen.
Photos by Adam West Photography
Special Features
Working Farm
Heritage Listed
Indoor Fireplace
Breakfast Provisions
Things To Do
Paterson is a quaint, historic village in the Upper Hunter region of NSW, around 20 minutes north of Maitland. The Hunter Valley is famed for its world class wineries - book a wine tour, or visit some of the many cellar doors. Take the self-guided Paterson Heritage Walk, which includes John Tucker Park, several heritage-listed buildings and red cedar trees.
Nearby is picturesque Morpeth, set on the banks of the Hunter River, once a busy port in colonial times. Visit Morpeth Antique Centre, Morpeth Museum, and enjoy lunch at one of the town’s cafes. Browse Maitland’s boutique stores, and admire the town’s beautiful architectural heritage.
