Welcome to Doncaster House. Photo: Belle Property Braidwood.
Set among romantic gardens in the heart of Braidwood is a stunning colonial home steeped in local history.
Currently a popular venue for weddings, events and boutique accommodation, Doncaster House at 1 Park Lane has worn many hats since its construction in the 1840s.
The Doncaster was originally built as one of Braidwood’s first hotel-pubs. It was transformed into a convent in 1909, subsequently serving as a boarding house, day school and refuge for children during World War II.
Private ownership came about in the 1970s. The building was reopened to the public as a guesthouse, once again solidifying its place in the town’s cultural fabric.
Today, Doncaster House comprises eight bedrooms, eight bathrooms, a commercial kitchen, multiple stunning living areas, and a self-contained manager’s wing.
Sales agent Suzanne Carter from Belle Property Braidwood describes the property as simply breathtaking, inside and out.
“Doncaster House has been lovingly restored and styled by its current owner, a respected interior designer with a love for antiques and artefacts,” she says.
“There’s a wonderful balance between old and new, which maintains the building’s historic integrity alongside modern features.
“The atmosphere is magical indoors, very serene and inviting.”
High ceilings, twinkling chandeliers and ornate fireplaces highlight the Doncaster’s distinct character. A sense of calm and comfort flows from the impressive entry foyer through to the formal lounge and dining rooms.
Up the grand original timber staircase are seven elegant guest suites.
“Every room enjoys a private ensuite and leafy outlook of the gardens below,” Suzanne says.
“Four have direct access to the wrap-around verandah, which offers a captivating view of the rolling hills and granite country that surround the heart of Braidwood.”
Outdoors, the grounds of Doncaster House are like something out of a storybook. Lush, peaceful and ever so romantic, the English-style parterre gardens were designed by beloved landscape architect Peter Fudge.
Guests are spoiled for choice as they explore different garden zones, which are cleverly separated by manicured hedges, dry-stone walls and avenues of fruit trees. In total, the grounds exceed 4000 sqm.
By the home’s entrance, a magnificent cherub water fountain serves as a centrepiece and ode to a bygone era.
Braidwood is a popular regional hub halfway between Canberra and the NSW South Coast. Known for its stunning colonial architecture and authentic village feel, the town attracts a friendly mix of young families, small business owners, generational farmers, and creatives of all kinds.
“Braidwood is defined by a thriving arts, culture, retail, and hospitality scene,” Suzanne says.
“The fortnightly farmers market is especially popular, brimming with fresh produce and artisan goods from around the region.
“Our community is equipped with a local hospital, K-12 school, public park and pool, golf and bowls club, sports grounds, racecourse, and more, but has maintained its authentic country town atmosphere.”
Current owner Gabrielle says the next person to call this property home will be fortunate indeed.
“Buildings like this don’t come up very often and are unique from an architectural point of view,” she says.
“It’s been an honour to be the custodian of such a magnificent property for nearly 20 years.
“I look forward to seeing whoever buys Doncaster House begin the next era of custodianship.”
For more information on Doncaster House at 1 Park Lane, Braidwood, contact Suzanne Carter on 0473 888 337.
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