680 Main Road

Berriedale TAS 7011

Eleven kilometres to the north of Hobart CBD in the riverside suburb of Berriedale is the historic homestead of Lowestoft, overlooking the Moorilla vineyard and winery. Set on a gentle rise amongst mature gardens, it has over 180 degree views across its 3 hectares of vineyard to Lowestoft Bay, the Derwent River and Mt Direction, sweeping past MONA to majestic Mt Wellington in the south: an idyllic setting. Built circa 1850 by well-known parliamentarian Thomas Yardley Lowes, Lowestoft is a fine example of Regency architecture with its classical symmetry, solid rendered sandstone walls, clean simple proportions, and an air of refined elegance. Alterations and modifications have been implemented over the years, taking care to maintain many of the original features including the expansive flagstone verandah, original slate roof tiles, ornate ceiling roses, moulded cornices, casement windows, decorative fire surrounds and worn sandstone steps showing the tread of feet over time. This sense of history pervades the home with its generously proportioned rooms and high ceilings, and the original water-well, unearthed in the courtyard by the current owners. The pice de rsistance of this home is the beautifully restored ballroom-cum-billiard room, accessible internally but also having two external entrances. This room adds another dimension to Lowestoft which has been, for approximately 170 years, a most comfortable family home for only three families. Combined with the setting and the vineyard, Lowestoft homestead has the potential to become a stylish reception centre, or boutique accommodation. Either of these options would both complement and contrast with neighbouring MONA, less than 5 minutes drive away. The vineyard, planted in 1986, is an additional asset, the premium Pinot Noir grapes being sought after by highly regarded wine-makers. A large out-building, constructed mainly of convict bricks, houses the necessary equipment for running the vineyard.Numerous recreational pursuits are nearby including tennis, bowls, sailing and rowing clubs as well as popular walking and cycling tracks, with MONA only a 5 minute walk away. The many facilities of Glenorchy with its shops, medical services, cafs and schools are ten minutes away. Whether Lowestoft continues as a family home or is developed into a business venture, it will always remain a valuable part of Tasmanias history.