Bourke Street, Dubbo
New South Wales
Style and grace in 'Explorer Country'
The property is a beautiful old home built in the late 1800s. It is set back off the road (which is good as Bourke Street is the Newell Highway) with a long drive. It is a reminder of times past and more gracious living.
Overall rating?
Excellent
What makes Ranelagh B&B different?
This stately home is set in grounds that include sweeping gardens, a tennis court, chook yard, pool, sitting area and is just a short drive from the centre of Dubbo. The period furnishings and inclusions such as a home theatre (with DVDs and videos) and billiard room make this a B&B that is out of the ordinary.
Accommodation overview
There are four double rooms, three feature queen-size beds and the fourth has a double bed. As the rooms are so generously sized, it is possible to fit in an extra bed or portacot on request. Two rooms have inter-connecting doors that make family-sized accommodation. All rooms have their own exclusive bathroom and two rooms have ensuites. Those rooms that do not have ensuites (but still have exclusive use of their own bathroom) reflect the heritage restrictions, which Ranelagh must comply with.
Facilities overview
Ranelagh offers luxurious accommodation, antique and period furniture, hearty breakfasts, open wood fires, full size billiard table, cinema, fully-lit tennis court, swimming pool and large grounds which all combine to give a sense of how the moneyed classes lived in days gone by.
Suitable for children?
Definitely, our two loved it.
Suitable for pets?
Yes, outside only
Wheelchair access?
Yes, check for your particular needs
Location
From Sydney take the Great Western Highway over the Blue Mountains, the Mitchell Highway then leads you through Bathurst, Orange and Wellington and on into Dubbo. Stop at the Little Hartley farmhouse café for delicious homemade chicken and mushroom pie and a good coffee. The adjoining lolly shop is fun for kids and adults revisiting their childhood – buy some chocolate bullets and a rosy apple or two!
Perfect for?
Couples wanting to spend some quality time together – our room was very romantic with a four poster bed with maroon silk hangings; families wanting time in this beautiful part of the state; friends catching up for a weekend.
Why stay longer?
Dubbo has plenty to see and do, including the Western Plains Zoo and Old Dubbo Gaol. However the house itself is so lovely, just relaxing by one of the open fires with a book and a glass of wine is reason to linger.
Why you wouldn’t stay longer?
You have seen all the main attractions of the area. Also, not having an ensuite may have you heading for home for the comforts of your own bathroom.
Prices
We paid $300 for the family room (two rooms with interconnecting doors) but check the listing for other rates and specials.
Jill Collins wrote this article
