Entire home

Old Duninald - Historic Farmhouse Experience

Family-friendly holiday home in Paterson with free breakfast

Photo gallery for Old Duninald - Historic Farmhouse Experience

Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop
3 bedrooms, desk, iron/ironing board, free WiFi
Outdoor dining
Exterior
Smart TV, fireplace, books, music library

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6250 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Barbecue grill
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View map
Paterson, NSW
  • Place, The Rail Motor Society
    ‪2 min drive‬
  • Place, Paterson Court House Museum
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Paterson Golf Course
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Airport, Newcastle, NSW (NTL-Williamtown)
    ‪49 min drive‬

Room options

About the area

Paterson

A family-friendly stay in Paterson awaits you at this holiday home. You'll be 1.9 km (1.2 mi) from The Rail Motor Society and 2.2 km (1.4 mi) from Paterson Court House Museum. Highlights at this holiday home include a kitchen, a washing machine and free WiFi. .Home features 2 bathrooms, a fireplace and a balcony. In-room dining is easy with a kitchen that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. A living room, a Smart TV and a coffee/tea maker are also available. Change of bedsheets is available on request .This business-friendly holiday home offers a games room, a garden and barbecues. Added amenities include laundry facilities. There's also the convenience of free self parking. .With a stay at this Paterson holiday home, you'll be 2.2 km (1.4 mi) from Paterson Golf Course and 2.6 km (1.6 mi) from Tocal Homestead.

What's nearby

  • The Rail Motor Society - 2 min drive - 2.0 km
  • Paterson Court House Museum - 3 min drive - 2.3 km
  • Paterson Golf Course - 7 min drive - 2.3 km
  • Hunter Valley Gardens - 52 min drive - 54.7 km
  • Newcastle Beach - 54 min drive - 57.8 km

Getting around

  • Paterson Station - 2 min drive
  • Newcastle, NSW (NTL-Williamtown) - 46 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Paterson Service Station & Cafe - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪Bushrangers Bar & Brasserie - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪The Flying Duck Cafe - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Vacy Hotel - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Vacy General Store Cafe & Gifts - ‬8 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Old Duninald - Historic Farmhouse Experience

Experience the charm of Old Duninald House, a lovingly restored 1822 residence said to be the oldest in the Hunter Valley. Set on 25 acres of gardens and bushland within the larger Duninald Property, this rare retreat offers old-world beauty, rural tranquility, and the warmth of home.

Here, time slows. Wake to birdsong drifting through ancient trees, wander garden paths dotted with sculptures, or settle by the billabong with a book in hand. In the evenings, gather by the firepit under starlit skies or enjoy a glass of Hunter wine on the wide verandahs as the cattle graze in the distance.

Inside, Old Duninald accommodates up to six guests across three beautifully appointed bedrooms, two bathrooms, and multiple living spaces. Expansive verandahs and a fully equipped kitchen ensure there’s ample room to gather, cook, or simply unwind. Original features are matched with modern comforts – a wood-burning fireplace, barbecue facilities, Wi-Fi, and reliable mobile coverage – so you can feel both grounded in history and perfectly at ease.

Duninald itself is a working farm of 500 acres, producing beef from a primarily Angus herd with Charolais bulls. The property also features a specialist wholesale fern nursery and boutique honey production. Yet just beyond the gates, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the Lower Hunter Valley: minutes from Paterson village, just two hours from Sydney and one hour from Newcastle. From here, you can explore the historic streets of Morpeth, the cultural hubs of Maitland and Dungog, the beaches of Port Stephens, and of course, the region’s celebrated vineyards.

Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family gathering, or a stay linked to nearby Tocal Homestead weddings, Old Duninald offers something rare: a chance to live inside history, surrounded by nature, while exploring one of New South Wales’ most beautiful regions.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Electric car charging station on site
  • Car required
  • Free self parking on site
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Electric kettle
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Free breakfast available
  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 3 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 2 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • Music library
  • Smart TV
  • Stereo

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundry facilities
  • Washing machine

Work spaces

  • Desk
  • Desk chair

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • In-room accessibility
  • No lift
  • Smoke-free property

Services and conveniences

  • Change of bedsheets (on request)
  • Iron/ironing board

Location highlights

  • In a rural location

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • No carbon monoxide detector or gas appliances (host has indicated there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher

General

  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Bed sheets changed on request
  • Composting
  • Comprehensive recycling policy
  • Electric car charging station
  • Garden
  • Humane treatment of captive wild animals
  • Local artist showcase
  • Solar energy
  • Unit size: 2,691 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

There is no front desk at this property
Guests will receive key retrieval information
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights
Turn off the air conditioner & close the doors.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Rules

Be aware of dangers for small children - billabong and electric fences. This is for our guests (you) & your guests.
Please ask children to respect the house. We want it beautiful for you and the next guests.

Access methods

Key retrieval, private entrance

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: Babies and children over 7 are welcome

Events

Events allowed: family gatherings

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 25
This property uses solar energy
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. Parties and events (including family gatherings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 25. This property uses solar energy. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector and a first aid kit in all accommodation.

Property Registration Number 2421, PID-STRA-5400

Property is also known as

Old Duninald Heritage House Book 2 Nights Stay 3
Old Duninald Heritage Book 2 Nights Stay 3
Old Duninald Heritage Book 2
Old Duninald Heritage House Book for 2 Nights Stay 3
Old Duninald Heritage House. Book for 2 Nights Stay 3
Old Duninald Heritage House. Book for 2 nights stay 3*
Old Duninald Heritage House<br>Book for 2 nights stay 3
221891

Frequently asked questions

Is parking available at Old Duninald - Historic Farmhouse Experience?

Yep, Old Duninald - Historic Farmhouse Experience has a free self car park.

Does Old Duninald - Historic Farmhouse Experience have a pool?

No, this holiday home doesn't have a pool.

Is Old Duninald - Historic Farmhouse Experience family-friendly?

You bet! With amenities such as an arcade, laundry facilities and highchairs, it's no surprise that Old Duninald - Historic Farmhouse Experience is a winner with our family travellers.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Old Duninald - Historic Farmhouse Experience?

No, Old Duninald - Historic Farmhouse Experience does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at Old Duninald - Historic Farmhouse Experience?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM. Check-out time is 11:00 AM.

Are pets allowed at Old Duninald - Historic Farmhouse Experience?

No, pets are not allowed.

Reviews

Old Duninald - Historic Farmhouse Experience Reviews

10

Exceptional

9.4/10

Cleanliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 32 out of 33 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 33 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 33 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 33 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 33 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Shannon J.

Liked: Cleanliness
We had the warmest welcome from beautiful Sophie the golden retriever. Greeted us with several zoomies and cuddles. The Farmhouse was homely and clean and accommodated six people comfortably. We were also very grateful for the complimentary milk, bread, cheese, biscuits, jam, honey, cereal and wine. Host Julia checked in on us during our stay which was also nice. Would definitely recommend staying at Old Duninald Farmhouse
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Narelle M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great location for family wedding, only 5 min drive to Tocal homestead. Lovely grounds to walk around, very serene. Lovely pergola to sit in and watch the birds and ducks on the dam, walk across bridge to see bulls in paddock
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Elyshia B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect Stay Thoughtful Touches

I had a wonderful 3night stay at this beautiful property. It was the perfect choice for attending a nearby wedding. Julia's communication before, during & after our stay was fantastic. The little extra touches really made a difference, such as the local honey and fresh bread waiting for us, as well as the thoughtful information about the history of the house. It truly felt like a special experience, and I would highly recommend this place to anyone attending an event nearby or just looking for a charming and welcoming getaway in the hunter region.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth A.

Liked: Cleanliness

Gorgeous and welcoming!

Julia was a wonderful host. The accommodation was beautiful and perfectly located for the wedding we attended in Wallalong.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

David M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Hunter Valley Wedding

We thought the property was beautiful and comfortable. It was perfect for our needs. The oven needed a clean, but apart from that the property was clean, neat and tidy. It had a beautiful feel. I found the logging in process tricky, but once logged in, communication with the owner was a breeze. We would happily recommend this property. Thanks.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ashley W.

Liked: Cleanliness

Quaint getaway

I stayed here for my wedding weekend and it was beautiful. The property is lovely and quiet. Amazing scenery from the back deck. Everyone that visited the accommodation over the weekend adored the cottage. It was clean, breakfast supplies with tea and coffee was supplied and some wine as well. Couldn't rate this place higher. Thank you Julie
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2023

10/10 Excellent

Derrick (Tony) J., Port Macquarie NSW Australia

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful home

Great property in perfect location for wedding at Tocal Homestead. Old Duninald is a beautiful old homestead, tastefully renovated and decorated with all the comforts of home. Communication with Julia was easy and obliging with a lovely unexpected welcome pack upon arrival very appreciated. Perfect, highly recommended.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Eden R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wedding Day Accomodation

I stayed at the beautiful Duninald house with my bridesmaids and mum the night before and morning of my wedding at Tocal Homestead. The amazing hospitality and picturesque accomodation truly set the scene for a stress free and beautiful wedding experience. We can’t wait to return for weekends with the family or around our anniversary for little country escapes. The lighting and space was perfect for my hair and makeup artists when getting ready and the wrap around deck made for perfect photos. Would highly recommend to any bride to be getting married in the area.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Trudy M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful weekwnd

Everything was perfect
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nicole H., Naremburn

Liked: Cleanliness

Divine family getaway for wedding in area

The property is exactly as described!! We stayed with our elderly parents and an interstate family member. On our first night we had extended family over for a casual dinner. There was plenty of room, seating and amenities in the kitchen. We had an absolute ball. The house is surrounded by spectacular gardens worth a walk around!! The beds and bathrooms are very comfortable, everything you need onsite, just bring you and your food/beverages. Our second night was at a wedding at Tocal, just a hop skip and jump from this gorgeous property. We loved every second and hope to return! Huge thanks Julia! Nicole
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Roger S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderfully restored old house

Situated on a working property Old Duninald is well appointed and very comfortable with a sunny verandah. The host welcoming and respectful of our privacy.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

8/10 Good

Emma T.

Disliked: Cleanliness

Beautiful Home

Stunning old home, however for the hefty price I was a bit disappointed with some of the cleaning. There were huge cobwebs on a lot of the walls inside and the drain in the bathroom was completely blocked making the entire bathroom flood within a couple of minutes of having the water running. Other than this, the house and location is very picturesque and serene.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Rebecca S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Pre-wedding stay

My bridesmaids and I were lucky enough to stay in this little piece of paradise the night before my wedding and use it as our “getting ready” venue the morning of. It was beautiful and peaceful with plenty of natural light for makeup and hair and beautiful locations for photos. The one small issue we had with changing over gas bottles for the hot water system was quickly resolved by our beautiful host who went above and beyond to make sure we had a lovely stay. The accommodation was spotless and the grounds were beautiful. 100% would recommend to anyone and would come back again in a heart beat.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

10/10 Excellent

Cameron J.

Liked: Cleanliness

Tocal's best accommodation

Nothing to add, what a great place to stay in. Thankyou Julia for your hospitality. Probably the closest accommodation to Tocal, apart from the actual Tocal property.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Linda W.

Liked: Cleanliness

An idyllic country stay

The accomodation was beyond our expectations and our hosts were extremely friendly, hospitable and accommodating, answering all our questions and making sure we felt welcome and comfortable. Highly recommend if you would love a country getaway. The gardens, summer house and bridge over the picturesque water all added to the beautiful experience. Reading the history of the house was wonderful as well. Thank you for sharing this piece of paradise and also for the welcome basket
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2022

10/10 Excellent

Zara M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful stay at beautiful Old Duninald

From booking through to check out we had the best experience with Julia, she was helpful, easy to communicate with and kindly left us a welcome hamper for our stay. The property is stunning, we loved sitting out on the vernadah for a cup of tea or drink in the afternoon. The house is well equipped including shampoo and conditioner and a hair dryer! We loved our stay and will definitely be back. Highly recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Alex B.

Liked: Cleanliness

Loved every minute

We stayed 3 nights (we were in the region for a wedding) and it was wonderful. The extensive property with lovely trees, native plants and billabong was motivation to get up early while the weather was cool to enjoy. The house itself is so beautifully restored with gorgeous interior designs and lots of amenities for those who enjoy cooking. A basket of food was also provided, including honey made by the property's bees. The air conditioning served us well when it was particularly hot. Many thanks to Julia and Poppy who welcomed us and helped us have such an enjoyable stay. A very special experience - we would love to stay again in the future.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lisa D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Escape and re-set

Another fabulous stay at Old Duninald. The house was so welcoming, it felt like coming home. Julia is accessible for anything you need and a total pro. We returned this time with my Mum and and she really was in heaven. Something for everyone at this special property with such great day trips on offer. Thank you for having us once again Julia and team, we look forward to returning. Lisa and family xx
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2021

10/10 Excellent

Tori G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful country cottage

We stayed in the beautiful little cottage two nights leading up to our wedding in November. It was perfect for what we needed. Ammenities are well equipped and the grounds on which the cottage lays is stunning perfect for a stroll in the fresh air. The cottage is just bursting with quirky little charms. I couldn’t recommend this place enough even just for a weekend away. Julia is a delight to deal with and nothing was ever a problem.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Britt T.

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing host

We booked this as accommodation for our wedding. Julia was so helpful - she happily allowed us to view the property prior to our stay and even brought us down some extra tables so we could have a post wedding breakfast with extended family! The property was beautiful and well presented. Would definitely stay here again!!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Patrick G.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful property and Julia was accessible for any questions we had

Would definitely return!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

karen h.

Liked: Cleanliness

Perfect

Our stay at Old Duninald was wonderful. Julia’s attention to the care of her guests, along with this amazing property ensured our weekend was exceptional. Chatting to Julia about the history of her home and our family connection to the area was such a delight, thank you.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Caryn M.

Liked: Cleanliness

Great stay

Great quiet location we were able to forget the city and relax. The local supermarket and butcher were great to top up on food and the kitchen etc are well equipped. The beds were very comfortable and the ducted air conditioning a blessing when it became a little humid. Thank you Julia and Chris.
Stayed 3 nights in Jan 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lisa D.

Liked: Cleanliness

Fabulous escape

Old Duninald is a class act of a holiday experience that feels special with all the comforts you’d want - whilst still feeling like you’re getting back to basics. A serene place, with great morning/afternoon/day trips near by, and with gorgeous hosts who allow you your privacy but who I equally felt I could reach out to if we needed anything. You feel you’re part of soemthing in this special house. Thank you to Julia, Chris and family.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020

10/10 Excellent

Sophie S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful Country Stay

We had a wonderful few days here and thought it was a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the lovely countryside. Julia is a wonderful host and the house is beautiful - a perfect holiday house! They had thought of everything needed for a holiday house - thank you for having us!