22 April 2018

Canberra Day Trips: Take a step back in time at Lanyon Homestead

| Canberra Day Trips
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Aerial view of Lanyon Homestead, via Historic Places: Lanyon Homestead.

Lanyon Homestead is a stone’s throw from Canberra’s suburban sprawl, but the historic property at the foot of the Brindabella ranges takes visitors on a delightful visit back to the 1800s. Its beautifully restored homestead is the centrepiece of the landmark property, which is set among stunning gardens that offer a gorgeous view of the countryside and a taste of rural life in days gone by.

Lanyon Homestead is nestled on a historic sheep station that is still a working farm. The stone homestead was built in 1849 and occupied until 1974. Visitors can explore station life from early convict days, well before Canberra even existed. The historic outbuildings dotted along the property, like the bakery, laundry, staff quarters, convict dwellings and barn all share their stories, and provide visitors with a chance to step back into the past.

The superb gardens are the perfect spot for a picnic or a stroll, with a view to the hills beyond the Murrumbidgee River, where sheep and cattle still graze nearby.

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Why you’ll love it

  • Tours of the homestead – either guided or self-guided, are a terrific way to become more familiar with Canberra’s rural history.
  • A diverse selection of community and learning programs and events are held regularly at the Homestead, offering something for everyone.
  • Lanyon Homestead is a tranquil place to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surrounding area. From its location at the foot of the imposing Brindabellas, you can soak up the paddocks around the Murrumbidgee River, admire ancient trees and gaze up at Mt Tennant.
  • Lanyon is also the perfect spot for a picnic amidst the rambling gardens and stately old trees, or for a walk around the roses, vegetable patch, fruit trees and plenty more.
  • There’s plenty for the kids to do and see on the property – like trying out a tractor or exploring the milk sheds, or just running around the expansive lawns and gardens.
  • The onsite café, Barracks Espresso Bar and Eating House serves lunch during the week and breakfast and lunch on the weekends. Pull up a pew at the outdoor seating, and you’ll feel like you’re in a far-flung pastoral location as you kick back and relish the spectacular views.

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Getting there

It’s an easy drive from Canberra to Lanyon Homestead. Follow the Tuggeranong Parkway (and its different name changes) south until you’ve passed Canberra’s most southerly suburb of Banks. Soon after, you’ll find the turnoff to Lanyon on the right.

When to go

Lanyon Homestead is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 10:00am and 4:00pm, and selected public holidays. Visitors are encouraged to check opening hours before heading out.

There is a small cost to visit the Homestead, currently $7 for adults, $5 for concessions and $15 for a family. All tickets include a guided tour.

Key details

  • Distance from Canberra: Lanyon Homestead is located on Tharwa Drive on the southern outskirts of Canberra, approximately 40 minutes’ drive from the city centre.
  • Recommended for: If you want to experience the region’s heritage first-hand, and bring the past to life, Lanyon Homestead is the place for you. Gardeners, historians, and those who want a first-hand glimpse of the past will enjoy it as well.
  • More information: Lanyon Homestead

Have you visited Lanyon Homestead lately? We’d love to hear about your experience.

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