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Rippon Lea Estate: A Victorian Suburban Oasis

Experience Victorian elegance at Rippon Lea Estate: a historic mansion and stunning gardens in Melbourne's charming Elsternwick.

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Step back in time at Rippon Lea Estate, a meticulously preserved 19th-century mansion and gardens in Melbourne's Elsternwick. Explore the opulent interiors, wander through the sprawling 14-acre gardens, and discover the rich history of this National Heritage-listed site.

A brief summary to Rippon Lea Estate

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking around the gardens.
  • Check the Rippon Lea Estate website for special events and guided tour schedules.
  • Consider visiting the Gatehouse Tea Room for a relaxing break and refreshments.
  • Take advantage of the free garden entry for Glen Eira and Port Phillip Council residents.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Rippon Lea Estate is easily accessible by public transport. From Melbourne's city center, take the Sandringham Line train to Ripponlea Station. The estate is a five-minute walk from the station. Alternatively, take Tram Route 67 (to Carnegie) to stop number 42. The 216 or 219 bus from Queen Street in the city also stops directly outside Rippon Lea Estate. A single train or tram fare is approximately $6.

  • Walking

    If you are in the vicinity of Elsternwick, walking to Rippon Lea Estate is a viable option. From the intersection of Glen Eira Road and Hotham Street, walk south along Hotham Street for approximately 500 meters. The entrance to Rippon Lea Estate will be on your left. Note that the garden paths are gravel and can make wheelchair access difficult.

  • Taxi/Ride Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Melbourne. A taxi or ride-share from Melbourne CBD to Rippon Lea Estate will cost approximately $20-$25 and take around 10 minutes, depending on traffic. Note that there is no on-site parking.

Unlock the Best of Rippon Lea Estate

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Discover more about Rippon Lea Estate

Rippon Lea Estate, located in Elsternwick, Victoria, is a captivating journey into Melbourne's 19th-century high society. This National Heritage-listed estate showcases a grand Victorian mansion and 14 acres of breathtaking gardens, offering visitors an enchanting escape. The estate was established in 1868 by Frederick Sargood, a wealthy businessman who made his fortune selling soft goods during the gold rush. Sargood named the property after his mother, Emma Rippon, combining it with 'lea,' an Old English word for meadow. The original 15-room mansion was designed by architect Joseph Reed and featured innovations such as an elaborate underground watering system and its own electricity supply, which were uncommon for the time. Over the years, Rippon Lea Estate has undergone several transformations, reflecting the changing times and tastes of its owners. The mansion expanded to 33 rooms, and the gardens evolved to include a large lake, extensive shrubberies, flower gardens, an orchard, a fernery, and rose gardens. Later owners, such as Benjamin Nathan and his daughter Louisa, added glasshouses, a swimming pool, and a new ballroom, further enhancing the estate's grandeur. Today, Rippon Lea Estate is open to the public, offering guided tours of the mansion and gardens. Visitors can explore the opulent interiors, discover the diverse birdlife, and enjoy special events such as outdoor cinema, theatre performances, and markets. The Gatehouse Tea Room provides refreshments, and the gift shop and nursery offer unique souvenirs and plants.

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