Dundullimal Homestead
Step into Australia's colonial past at Dundullimal Homestead, the nation's oldest surviving slab hut house, offering history, gardens, and events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Dundullimal Homestead
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into Australia's colonial past at Dundullimal Homestead, the nation's oldest surviving slab hut house, offering history, gardens, and events.
"A beautiful location and an educational tour regarding the homestead, stables, church, and gardens."
Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Lots of walking around the grounds. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the homestead and gardens.
Book Tours Online :ticket:
Essential for seeing the homestead. Booking in advance ensures your spot and avoids disappointment.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Homestead
Main Homestead Building
Step back in time in Australia's oldest surviving slab hut house, furnished with original period pieces.
Restored Stables and Forge
Outbuildings
Discover the working life of the past in the meticulously restored stables and forge, offering a glimpse into rural heritage.
Beautifully Maintained Gardens
Grounds
Wander through peaceful, pet-friendly grounds and gardens, perfect for a relaxing stroll and photography.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Comfort is Key for Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Lots of walking around the grounds. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the homestead and gardens.
Book Tours Online :ticket:
Essential for seeing the homestead. Booking in advance ensures your spot and avoids disappointment.
Bring Water & Sun Protection :droplet: :sun_with_face:
Stay hydrated and protected from the sun, especially during warmer months. Hats and sunscreen are highly recommended.
Pet-Friendly Grounds :dog:
Bring your furry friends to explore the beautiful, pet-friendly grounds. They'll love the open space!
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfy Shoes! :athletic_shoe:
Lots of walking around the grounds. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the homestead and gardens.
Book Tours Online :ticket:
Essential for seeing the homestead. Booking in advance ensures your spot and avoids disappointment.
Bring Water & Sun Protection :droplet: :sun_with_face:
Stay hydrated and protected from the sun, especially during warmer months. Hats and sunscreen are highly recommended.
Pet-Friendly Grounds :dog:
Bring your furry friends to explore the beautiful, pet-friendly grounds. They'll love the open space!
Cafe Closes Early :coffee:
The cafe often closes at 2 PM, even if the homestead is open later. Plan your refreshments accordingly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Dundullimal Homestead for its historical significance, well-preserved buildings, and beautiful grounds. The guided tours are highlighted as educational and engaging, with friendly and knowledgeable staff enhancing the experience. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to relax with a Devonshire tea. Some note that the cafe closes earlier than the homestead, and booking tours in advance is recommended.
"It is a heritage-listed former pastoral station and now cultural facility, house museum and events centre. The Australian colonial slab hut-type homestead is located approximately 7 kilometres (4.3 mi) south of Dubbo It is believed to be the oldest surviving slab hut house in Australia. It was built around 1840 as the head station of this 6,500-hectare (16,000-acre) squatting run. The homestead is also Dubbo's oldest building open to the public. Its interior is relatively sophisticated for its type, with an imposing sitting room and is noted for its tent-shaped plaster ceiling, and wallpaper reproduced from an 1850s pattern. The house is furnished with original period furniture. Popular place, lots of tourists and locals. Fair bit of walking around under shade. Toilets available. Cafes available. You have to book and pay for a tour to be able to see it. This can be done online. At the end of the tour you are given scones and tea. Gift/souvenir shop available on site. Friendly staff and great service. Wear comfy shoes, take water, wear hat, sunscreen. Beautiful place. Lots to see. Parking is easy. Great place for photography."
s vivekananda
"My dog and I had a very pleasant morning sitting in the winter sun having a Devonshire tea before we exploring the grounds. The staff were friendly and the site was quite interesting."
Cayte Pryor
"Lots of history here, they have tried to keep it very original. Worth the look if you are into old stuff or history. Cost $15 per adult (July 2025)"
Shell Benn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dundullimal Homestead is located about 7 kilometers south of Dubbo. Driving is the most convenient way to reach it, with easy parking available on site. Public transport options might be limited, so checking local bus routes or considering a taxi/rideshare is advisable.
Yes, there is easy parking available at Dundullimal Homestead, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Yes, Dundullimal Homestead is a feasible day trip from Wellington, as it's located just south of Dubbo. The drive is relatively short, allowing ample time to explore the homestead and its grounds.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission typically costs around $15 per adult, though prices can vary. It's best to check the official website for the most current pricing information.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your tour in advance, especially during peak times, as tours can fill up. You can usually book online through their official website.
The homestead is generally open from 11 AM to 3 PM, but it's crucial to verify the exact hours on their website, as they can change. Note that the cafe may close earlier than the homestead.
While the grounds offer a fair bit of walking, some areas might be accessible. The homestead interior has stairs. It's advisable to contact the homestead directly to inquire about specific accessibility for tours and grounds.
To see the interior of the homestead, a guided tour is required. However, the grounds are often accessible for a wander, and you can enjoy the gardens and exterior buildings.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! Dundullimal Homestead is considered a great place for photography, with its historic buildings, charming gardens, and picturesque rural setting. The grounds offer plenty of scenic spots.
Generally, personal photography for non-commercial use is welcomed. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors and any specific guidelines provided by the staff, especially during private events.
The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – often provide the most beautiful light for photography. However, the shaded grounds can also offer pleasant shooting conditions throughout the day.
If you are attending an event, personal photography is usually permitted. For professional or commercial photography, you would likely need to seek prior permission from the venue.
The homestead facade, the stables, the old church, and the expansive gardens all offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Don't miss the chance to capture the unique tent-shaped plaster ceiling inside the homestead.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Dundullimal Homestead often offers Devonshire tea and sometimes ice cream or other light refreshments. It's a lovely way to relax after your tour.
The primary offering is typically a delicious Devonshire tea, complete with scones, jam, and cream. Some reviews also mention ice cream being available.
It's important to note that the cafe at Dundullimal Homestead often closes earlier than the homestead itself, typically around 2 PM. Plan your visit accordingly if you wish to enjoy refreshments.
Dubbo city, just a short drive away, offers a wide range of restaurants and cafes to suit various tastes and budgets. The Visitor Information Centre can provide recommendations.
The grounds are pet-friendly and offer space for relaxation. While specific picnic policies might vary, enjoying your own snacks in the designated outdoor areas is often permissible, especially on the pet-friendly grounds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to imagine life in the 1840s as you explore the homestead, stables, and forge. The open spaces in the gardens are perfect for a bit of running around after the tour. Consider packing snacks and drinks, though the cafe does offer refreshments like ice cream.
❤️ Couples and History Buffs
+1 The peaceful gardens and historic ambiance provide a lovely backdrop for a relaxed outing. Enjoying a Devonshire tea together after a tour can be a delightful experience. History enthusiasts will find Dundullimal Homestead particularly fascinating. As Australia's oldest surviving slab hut house, it provides an authentic glimpse into colonial life. The detailed furnishings, unique architectural features like the tent-shaped ceiling, and the stories shared during the tours offer a rich historical experience.
🐶 Pet Owners
This means you don't have to leave your furry companions behind when you visit. They can join you for a leisurely stroll through the gardens and around the historic buildings. While pets are welcome on the grounds, they are typically not permitted inside the main homestead building itself. Ensure your pet is on a leash and well-behaved to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. It's a great opportunity for a scenic walk with your dog in a historic setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Colonial Australia
The homestead is more than just a house; it's a cultural facility and events centre managed by the National Trust of Australia (NSW). This ensures its preservation and accessibility for the public to learn about Australia's colonial history. The guided tours are highly praised for their educational value, with guides like Lyn noted for their wealth of knowledge and ability to answer questions.
Beyond the main homestead, the site includes meticulously restored stables and a forge, providing a comprehensive look at the operational aspects of a 19th-century rural property. The pet-friendly grounds and gardens add to the experience, offering a peaceful environment for reflection and exploration.
Events and Celebrations at Dundullimal
The homestead has hosted notable events like the 'Under Western Skies' festival, featuring live music from artists such as Little Quirks and Elle Flanagan. These events draw crowds and showcase the venue's versatility in hosting large-scale gatherings.
+1 Catering services, including BBQ specialists, have also been featured at weddings held here, adding to the event experience. Art exhibitions and classes are also part of the homestead's cultural offerings. For instance, the 'Fresh Arts' anniversary exhibition has featured local artists, and painting and drawing classes have been enjoyed by keen artists on the property, demonstrating its role as a hub for local arts and culture.
+1
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