Retford Park, Bowral, New South Wales | Better Homes and Gardens

Retford Park walkaround

Graham’s in New South Wales’ Southern Highlands to check out an amazing slice of Australian history.

Once the home of James Fairfax AC, the sprawling Retford Park estate was gifted to the National Trust 2016 and is now open to the public.

With a history dating back to 1820, this stunning property is also home to some magnificent gardens.

Join Graham as he steps back in time to check out this great icon of Australia’s past.

Be enchanted by the magnificent gardens surrounding the grand Victorian Italianate homestead formerly owned by Mr James Fairfax AC.

Discover the exquisite swimming pool and pavilion nestled amongst a patchwork of hedged gardens.

Better Homes and Gardens recipes on this week’s show

Lemon and elderflower cupcakes inspired by Meghan Markle

Mum’s Singapore noodles with prawns

chicken peas bacon and charred lettuce in pan with sprinkle of herbs on top

Charred lettuce with chicken, bacon and peas

3 garden basics that will guarantee you healthy plants

mushrooms in one bowl and tomato and egg stir fry in another bowl with greens on the side

Tomato and egg stir fry with 5 kinds of mushroom

swordfish steaks with pickled fennel on white plate with blue tablecloth

Swordfish steaks with green olive salsa verde

chicken teriyaki rolls in lunchbox with bowl of sauce next to it

Teriyaki chicken rice paper rolls

Retford Park also has a busy Calendar of Events that runs from September through to July – click through to the National Trust website to find out about a garden symposium in July that includes lectures, workshops, accommodation, all meals, garden visits and the opportunity to dine in one of the most famous dining rooms of the Southern Highlands.

This event is about spoiling yourself!

Graham Ross Horticulturist

Radio broadcaster and television gardening presenter, Graham Ross, has educated, entertained and inspired Australia’s gardening community and aspiring green thumbs during a career that has spanned more than 50 years.

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