Calstock Estate c. 1831
Sleeps 8 | Bedrooms 4 | Bathrooms 4
A treasured Tasmanian heritage-listed property, Calstock Estate is regarded as one of Australia’s finest examples of Georgian architecture. Set at the foothills of the picturesque Meander Valley in Northern Tasmania, Calstock Estate is a mere half hour’s drive from Launceston, yet a true escape from it all.
The first house on the estate was built in 1831 by Lieutenant Pearson Foote, of the Royal Navy – with convict labour and handmade bricks. Foote ran his establishment like a ship, and had convicts ‘on watch’, ringing ship’s bells into the night. While the original houses remain as the east and west wings, the striking Georgian main house was built in 1853 by John Field, the son of a former convict himself. The Field family purchased Calstock from Foote and held it for 130 years. More recently, current custodians & hosts Deb Smibert and Trevor Evans have painstakingly restored the property over three years, returning the main house and outbuildings to their original splendour, while fitting out the stables as luxury, boutique accommodation.
The impressive stables building stands as a reminder of the fame that Calstock once enjoyed in horse racing, stabling the first racing stud in Australia that enjoyed much success and many accolades. The most famous was the Mighty Malua, winner of the Melbourne Cup in 1884 and taking out the nation’s top races over a variety of distances. Still considered the most versatile thoroughbred racehorse in Australian history, a life-size bronze statue of Malua proudly stands in Deloraine.
Guests can choose from two premium suites at Calstock Estate. The Stables Suite is a two bedroom, one bathroom premium apartment, with an interior inspired by the stables and horses that once resided there. Styled with natural, earthy pieces for a warm and inviting feel, the self contained apartment has a fully stocked pantry, lounge and dining area. All you need to do is settle in, relax and indulge in gorgeous surrounds, while reflecting on Calstock’s historic past.
With its original exposed beams and brickwork, the Woolstore Loft is a private hideaway on the top floor of the stables, overlooking Calstock’s gardens and the surrounding countryside. There are two bedrooms, with king size beds, sumptuous linens, and natural textured fabrics. The open plan kitchen has everything you need to make gourmet meals, and unwind in the lounge on the large Chesterfield sofa. Two bathrooms feature large walk-in showers, and complimentary Hunter Lab products.
Enjoy cooking with the freshest Tasmanian produce during your stay, with breakfast provisions provided, and enjoy champagne and homemade treats on arrival. Brunch is also available for guests at an additional cost, with a menu focused on local, seasonal produce.
The elegant Quamby guest lounge is the perfect place to relax. Select a book from the library, listen to music, or play a game of chess in this artfully designed, cosy space. And browse the Stables Store, where Deb shares her years of experience in floristry, styling and interiors - a beautiful boutique shopping experience, with individually selected homewares, giftware and unique clothing.
Equally as stunning as your accommodation are the grounds of Calstock Estate. Guests are welcome to explore over 30 acres of exquisitely manicured gardens, with formal hedging, heritage-listed English oak and elm trees, rose gardens, and a romantic rotunda. The surrounding countryside provides a stunning backdrop to your stay, and each season brings its own special magic.
Special Features
Heritage Listed
Romantic
Guest Lounge
Country Gardens
Things To Do
Deloraine is a pretty farming town, with a historic streetscape classified by the National Trust. Wander the village and admire Georgian and Victorian buildings, stop in at a café or bakery for lunch, or picnic next to the Meander River that runs through the town. The statue of Malua, Calstock’s own Melbourne Cup winner, is outside the Visitors Centre in town. Renowned, local artist Tony Smibert has pieces inspired by the local environment and is open to gallery visitors by appointment in Deloraine. Calstock Estate is an ideal base to take in the many attractions in the region such as Liffey Falls, Mole Creek Caves, and Cradle Mountain.