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Summer is here, so early morning & evening are best to explore the grounds.

Photo gallery for Summer is here, so early morning & evening are best to explore the grounds.

Situated by a serene body of water, this cabin offers a peaceful retreat with a wooden deck and lush surroundings.
Relax in this inviting space with a comfortable sofa, dining area, and large window.
Surrounded by lush greenery, this serene home offers a tranquil retreat.
Relax in a serene space with a large bed, two nightstands, and framed botanical prints.
Explore serene forest surroundings with well-maintained walking paths.

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire home

3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6250 sq m

Popular amenities

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

About this property

Entire place

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

Summer is here, so early morning & evening are best to explore the grounds.

The house is a perfect get away from the city on an historic farm, yet only a couple of hours from Sydney or an hour from Newcastle.
Also perfect in proximity for Tocal & Wallalong wedding venues.

We have loved hosting overseas visitors who have explored the Hunter wineries on day 1 and Port Stephens on day 2..we are half way between the 2 locations.

Reputedly the oldest house in the Hunter Valley established in 1822 and refreshed for a luxury experience.

Old Duninald is a luxurious cottage nestled in the Hunter Valley, near Paterson featuring 3 bedrooms with 3 living spaces, a lounge dining room, and a sunroom with spacious verandas. Your group will have space to come together or spread out.

There is a welcome pack with items for a continental breakfast, including home grown honey. There is wine & cheese & biscuits for you to enjoy when you check in.

Old Duninald features a large modern kitchen and two newly renovated bathrooms.

The house is set in 25 acres of woodland that you are able to wander in. There are tracks through the wood and around the billabong. There is a summer house by the billabong to sit & relax in.

The house is a perfect location if you are:
- attending a wedding in the Paterson area
- want a base for further exploring our beautiful valley :Morpeth, Maitland, Dungog, Lostock
- attending a course at Tocal college
- wanting a perfect get away just want to relax on the spacious verandas, take a walk in the wood

We are finding our guests are using this as a perfect place to explore the Lower Hunter Valley. As well as the destinations within a 20 minutes radius: Maitland, Morpeth & Dungog....in an hours radius are Newcastle, the Hunter valley vineyards & Port Stephens.

Whilst we have specified no children, this is really a safety issue for your children as there are safety issues with a billabong close to the house and electric fences on the property. Babies & children over 7 are welcome as they will be too young to wander off or old enough to understand the issues.

Sustainability issues:
The house is electrified during the day by solar panels.
There is a power point in the garage for you to recharge your electric vehicle, if necessary.
The water is collected from the roof & is totally suitable for drinking.
Rubbish is sorted into general waste & recycling. There is also a compost bin, that will feed the chooks if you put our green waste in the bin.

Property manager

Mrs Julia L Wokes

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

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

  • Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
  • 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

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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

Access methods

Key retrieval, private entrance

Pets

Pets not allowed

Children and extra beds

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

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 not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
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
Property Registration Number 2421, PID-STRA-5400

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts
A car is required for transport to and from this property

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

About the area

Map
Paterson, NSW

What's nearby

  • Hunter Valley Gardens
    57 min drive - 59.3 km
  • Tocal Homestead
    4 min drive - 3.1 km
  • Wallalong House - Hunter Valley Wedding Venue
    20 min drive - 18.0 km
  • Maitland Showground
    25 min drive - 22.2 km
  • University of Newcastle
    46 min drive - 48.2 km

Getting around

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

Restaurants

  • Bushrangers Bar & Brasserie
    14 min drive
  • The Flying Duck Cafe
    8 min drive
  • Paterson Tavern & Bistro
    2 min drive
  • The Duck Pond
    14 min drive
  • Vacy General Store Cafe & Gifts
    8 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Summer is here, so early morning & evening are best to explore the grounds. pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at Summer is here, so early morning & evening are best to explore the grounds. ?

Self-parking is free at this property.

What time is check-in at Summer is here, so early morning & evening are best to explore the grounds. ?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Summer is here, so early morning & evening are best to explore the grounds. ?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Summer is here, so early morning & evening are best to explore the grounds. located?

This family-friendly Paterson holiday home is located in a rural location, 1.6 mi (2.6 km) from Tocal Homestead, and within 12 mi (20 km) of Maitland Showground and Walka Water Works. Maitland Regional Art Gallery and Maitland Gaol are also within 12 miles (20 km). Paterson Station is 22 minutes by foot.

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Summer is here, so early morning & evening are best to explore the grounds. Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 30 out of 31 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 31 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 31 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 31 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 31 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Trudy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful weekwnd

Everything was perfect
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Roger S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

10/10 Excellent

Elyshia B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Linda W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

David M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Eden R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

8/10 Good

Emma T.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
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

Nicole H., Naremburn

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Elizabeth A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Ashley W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Rebecca S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Zara M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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!

10/10 Excellent

Teaghan B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Incredible home for a wonderfully relaxed stay.

My friends and I absolutely loved our stay at Old Duninald. The home is immaculately presented, clean, very well equipped and surrounded by the most beautiful landscaping, gardens and views. We enjoyed walks throughout the property, bbqs on the veranda and relaxing and catching up with each other. We booked the home for a friend's wedding at Tocal Homestead which was only a couple of minutes drive away. The property is a 5 minute drive from the local town and is in perfect location for a day trip to wineries in the Hunter Valley or surrounds. The host, Julia, was very welcoming and accommodating. We would love to come back for another stay at Old Duninald!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020

10/10 Excellent

Candice T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Escape to the country side

Absolutely stunning and well-preserved heritage property with lovely modern bathrooms. Beautiful outlook from anywhere on the property - a nice relaxing environment.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2020