Leighton House, 1860
History
A beautiful example of early Victorian architecture, Leighton House dates to 1860, and has always played an important part in the equine history of Tasmania. In the early years, Clydesdale Horses were bred here and sent over to Melbourne during the building boom of the 1870s-80s. Piping Lane, a Melbourne Cup winner, was sired on the property, along with several other prized thoroughbreds.
Owners & hosts Hamish Campbell and Genevieve Taubman share a deep passion for Leighton House and preserving its rich history. Following a full restoration of the homestead, and a modern extension with a focus on sustainable design, Leighton House sets a new standard of luxury for an Australian farm stay experience. Today, it is an unforgettable place for family and friends to celebrate, reconnect, and restore.
The homestead displays the symmetry of a Georgian house, however the iron flourishes, ornate cornicing, and floor-to-ceiling bay windows are typical of the Victorian era. All floors, cornicing, fireplaces and windows are original to the homestead, and the verandah was reinstated with a new iron roof.
The modern wing, designed by Hobart architectural firm, Core Collective, complements the original home. The new section was clad with locally-sourced, carbon neutral bricks made 15km away in Longford, and fine steel-framed windows and doors encourage a focus on the spectacular country surrounds. An internal courtyard, with glass atrium walkway, connect the old with new. The interior was curated by Kirsten Bookalil of Stanwix Studios, with a selection of antiques and original Australian contemporary art featuring throughout.
Accommodation
Four beautifully-appointed bedrooms, all with glorious views, sleep up to twelve guests. Three queen suites in the original homestead each have their own private ensuite bathroom. Within the new wing of the property, a fourth bedroom with six double bunk beds can comfortably accommodate both adults and children. All bedrooms feature luxurious feather pillows, doonas and bedding for a blissful night’s sleep.
All bathrooms have been finished to a high standard, with brass fittings, and a colour palette that echoes the outdoors. Complimentary Ashley & Co amenities and bathrobes are provided for guests’ use. The master bathroom also features an original claw foot bath, positioned to take in views of the surrounding countryside whilst you relax.
Cook up a storm in the gourmet chef’s kitchen, featuring a stunning marble island bench, high-end Electrolux and Miele cooking appliances, and a Breville Oracle Touch coffee machine, for perfect coffees every morning. Pantry staples are provided, along with a generous welcome basket of Tasmanian Ritual coffee beans, bread, butter, jam, milk, eggs and biscuits. At meal times, there’s plenty of space for everyone at the dining table seating twelve.
Alternatively, dine al fresco in the sunny internal courtyard with outdoor setting. state of the art BBQ, and pizza oven.
Unwind in one of several living areas throughout the homestead, thoughtfully created for all ages. The new wing has two sitting areas, one with a Jetmaster fireplace, Oled TV, and designer Coco Republic furniture. The second sitting room is an ideal retreat for children and teens - with pool table, leather sofa, Oled TV and sound system.
The formal study, in the original part of the homestead, is a place to escape for quiet afternoons. Listen to old records, choose a book to read, catch up on work at the antique desk, and relax with a glass of wine or Tasmanian whisky in front of the fire.
Just outside, you’ll find your very own wellness retreat - a yoga platform, sauna, and spa. On rainy days, watch the mist set across rolling green hills and the Ben Lomond Mountain Range as you stay warm in the sauna. And during the winter months, cosy up around the fire pit circle, toasting marshmallows under starry skies.
Set on 300 acres of farm land, Leighton House commands magical sunrises from the front verandah, and equally breathtaking sunsets from the Westerly verandah. Guests are welcome to explore the farm during their stay. See Angus cattle, horses, chickens, and hares as you make your way to the picturesque South Esk River, a lovely spot for a picnic.
“We had the most wonderful stay Leighton House and only wish we could have stayed longer! Spacious, beautifully decorated, historic and so comfortable, with stunning views. The spa and sauna are heavenly. The kitchen is state of the art, and we loved making pizzas in the outside pizza oven. We will be back!”
Exclusive Offer
Mention Historic Stays when booking, and receive a complimentary bottle of award-winning Stoney Rise or Josef Chromy wine.
Special Features
Families
Mountain Views
Gourmet Kitchen
Luxe Linens
Things To Do
Only a few minutes from Launceston Airport, Leighton House is perfectly located for you to experience the surrounding area with its historic townships and attractions. Spend time in Evandale, one of Tasmania’s prettiest and well-preserved heritage villages, just a two minute drive away. Browse beautiful antique and homewares stores, and enjoy lunch or dinner at the renowned Clarendon Arms, built in 1847. Evandale’s country market is held every Sunday morning, and is well worth a visit.
Follow the Heritage Highway and discover the townships of Longford, Perth, Campbell Town, Ross and Oatlands. All are rich in history, with remarkable Georgian sandstone architecture and bridges to admire - along with boutique shops, cafes and bakeries.
Historic homes Clarendon Estate c. 1838, Woolmers Estate c. 1817, and Brickendon Estate c. 1824, are all a 10 minute drive from Leighton House. Both Woolmers and Brickendon Estates are World Heritage listed, and all are open to the public. Woolmers Estate also features a heritage-listed rose garden and The Eleanor Restaurant.
Leighton House is positioned at start of the Tamar Valley wine route, and a short drive from Launceston’s food scene, a UNESCO City of Gastronomy - one of only 49 around the world. Also nearby, for those seeking adventure, are Blue Derby Mountain Biking, Ben Lomond Base Camp for skiing and hiking, and golf at Barnbougle Dunes. Both Wine Glass Bay and Cradle Mountain are easy day trips.
