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Set amongst four acres of manicured gardens and within the grounds of a Scottish Baronial Castle,
Overnewton Castle allows you to step back in time to a Victorian era of the mid-1800s and experience a historic and rich past.
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This is one of Melbourne's best-kept secrets, located only 30 mins from Melbourne, in the heart of
Keilor, which in this present day is very suburban. The castle remains secluded behind a tree-lined drive until you see the turrets and its stone facade, which has been lovingly restored to its former glory by its new owners.
Sundays are for high tea. We booked in for a family birthday celebration and included the historic tour of the castle. Emma has lived and grown up in the castle since her parents purchased it back in the mid-'70s. She is passionate to share her stories and memories of growing up with her brothers and sisters at Overnewton Castle. She is also very keen to share the history of the area; you learn about the vision of William Taylor, who brought the land around Keilor and initially built a colonial-style homestead before adding the castle extension.
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The historic tour starts at 11 am inside the main entrance of the castle and takes you through approx 36 rooms, each one has a story, the attention to detail, furniture, clocks, right through the furnishings and decorations have been sourced to fit in with the Victorian era of when the castle was built in 1859. The tour is approx 1 hour, and a perfect way to appreciate the past before experiencing the high tea sitting at 1 pm.
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All the furniture has been sourced and restored to match the style and era of the castle.
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The famous spiral staircase has 40 stone steps and a mahogany handrail that gracefully spirals up to the top of the Western turret.
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As the historic tour concluded, we had a bit of time to explore the beautifully landscaped gardens which overlook a picturesque valley and gorge framed by old stone fence lines. The path leads past a 100-year-old oak tree, with country views beyond the white gazebo. In springtime, the white cherry blossoms resemble snow.
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We had all worked up an appetite after the historic tour and exploring the gardens, so we were ready to sit down and enjoy the high tea. Set within the Grand dining room with large light-filled bay windows, looking out into the gardens, and a beautiful feature ceiling adorned by an elegant chandelier.
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Our table was beautifully set with a tiered selection of delicate pastries, the roasted beetroot & goat's cheese quiche was so delicious! A mix of large fluffy scones served with jam and cream, English tea sandwiches (vegetarian options are available if requested) and petite fours with free-flowing tea and coffee.
We were welcomed by Emma and the friendly staff with a complimentary glass of bubbly upon arrival!
image @ moko creative
image @ moko creative
The castle holds public high teas and historic tours on the selected dates make sure you
visit the website for bookings and current pricing for all listed dates.
The property is privately owned and not open for wandering in the gardens outside of the selected dates but the current owners of this historic building are present at the historical tour and welcome you to purchase a tour at 11 am before the high tea sitting.
High Tea Pricing
Traditional High Tea: $70.00 per person, $45:00 Child Under 12yrs and $20:00 for Child Under 5yrs unless otherwise specified
High Tea Time: 1.00pm to 3.00pm
Mid-Week High Tea: $50.00 per person, $45:00 Child Under 12yrs and $20:00 Child Under 5yrs unless otherwise specified
High Tea Time: 12.00pm to 2.00pm
Historical Tours $20 per head Tour Time: 11 am start
This is definitely a private hidden treasure and one not to be missed if you have the opportunity to visit and enjoy the high tea / historic tour experience. A fabulous place to gather with family and friends either mid-week or at weekends!
Overnewton Castle is also available for mid-week seniors' outings, weddings, high teas, children's days, private functions and many other occasions. Just a short drive 30 min drive from Melbourne, make Overnewton Castle your next shared experience!
