Thornby Farm, 1842
History
Thornby was part of an initial 2,000-acre grant in the 1830s, and was first known as Exton House, named after an ancestor, Miss Exton. The c. 1840 farmhouse is the only property still remaining in this ancestral line.
Built high to overlook surrounding paddocks and the township, many historical features remain - original doors and windows, including the beautiful front entry door with leadlight, and brick and ornate timber fireplaces.
Accommodation
Three bedrooms sleep up to 7 guests, with children of all ages welcome. Perfect for families, the first bedroom has a queen bed, second bedroom has both a queen and single bed, and the third bedroom has twin singles. A cot is also available upon request.
With beautiful antique furniture throughout to encapsulate the feel of 1840’s farm life, Thornby has a relaxed and welcoming feel. Each room enjoys a view of the stunning farm surrounds - established gardens, gently sloping lawns, lush paddocks, and rolling green hills.
There are two living areas, one with a cosy wood fire and library with an extensive range of fiction, non-fiction, history, and children’s books. Or have some fun in the games room with table tennis table, and plenty of board games including chess.
The kitchen has been thoughtfully equipped for cooking during your stay, with pantry staples, modern appliances, coffee machine, and wine fridge. Breakfast is included, along with ingredients to make scones, plus homemade raspberry jam! Marshmallows are also provided for evenings gathered around the fire pit.
Dine in the elegant formal dining room with its own wood fire, and an antique dining table that seats ten. Your hosts can also arrange BBQ packs, Tasmanian cheese platters, and Tasmanian wine for a small additional cost.
Outdoors at Thornby Farm is an adventure for young and old! There’s a tennis court, basketball ring, fantastic tree swing, croquet, a fruit and vegetable garden, bikes to ride…and even gumboots are provided, so you can head out to explore the farm and walk up the hill for magical views. If you would like to feed the friendly farm animals, just let your hosts know when booking.
Alternatively, indulge in a day of doing as little as possible! Sit back on the wide verandah with a cup of tea and a good book, or cheese and wine of an evening, and simply soak up the serenity of your surrounds.
“Our stay at Thornby Farm was wonderful. The Farmhouse was spacious and well-equipped, and there was plenty to do with books, games, animals to feed, tennis and basketball. The scones recipe and ingredients was a lovely touch! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and highly recommend Thornby Farm.”
Exclusive Offer
Book 2+ nights and mention Historic Stays, to receive a gourmet grazing platter of Tasmanian cheeses, crackers and fruit.
Special Features
Fire Pit
Breakfast Included
Tennis Court
Farm Stay Experience
Things To Do
The historic township of Exton is a 30 minute drive from Launceston airport, so a short drive will see you in Launceston’s CBD with excellent cafes and restaurants. Also a must visit is the ancient Cataract Gorge in West Launceston, along the South Esk River. Walk the historic bridge, or in the warmer months take a cool dip in the river followed by a picnic.
Visit the Village Green in Westbury, the oldest green in Australia that’s reminiscent of an English country town. Also nearby is Deloraine on the Meander River, a picturesque town with boutique shops to browse. Take a historical walking tour of Deloraine, and return for coffee and cakes at Frank & Lotti.
