The Jolly Farmer is a residence of rare distinction, offering a unique opportunity to own a significant piece of Tasmania's heritage. Built in 1826, this 219m² Colonial Georgian residence stands as a remarkable testament to 200 years of history. Privately nestled on the edge of the historic Perth township, the property serves as both a magnificent family home, with several outbuildings offering boundless potential for creative or commercial pursuits.
The Jolly Farmer Inn, described as a one-and-a-half-storey Georgian Inn, was built in 1826 on the original Hobart Launceston Road in the township of Perth. Perth was chosen as a future township by Governor Lachlan Macquarie when passing through the area in 1821. It was proclaimed a town in 1836.
The Inn was established by licensee Allan Mackinnon and traded successfully due to the busy passing coaching traffic on the main road; however, with the opening of the railway line between Launceston and Hobart, the Inn closed in 1876, like so many other regional Inns. The Inn was soon converted into a large private residence. One of its early notable owners included Australian Poet Norma Davis. Norma lived at the Jolly Farmer Inn from 1905 to 1945 and called the home "Glenarvon". In 1989, it was home to artist Michael McWilliams and antique furniture expert Robert Henley, who restored the residence and established the garden. The current vendor has further enhanced the property over the past 7 years.
The ground floor of the residence includes the main entrance hallway, several formal and informal sitting rooms, large mud room, 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, laundry and a charming country style kitchen. The staircase leads to the master bedroom, a fourth bedroom, living area and the 3rd bathroom. All the rooms have fine internal architectural features of the colonial period, and views over the garden. Heating is provided via heat pumps and solid fuel heaters, and the property is on mains power and water.
The home is positioned on a 4920m2 allotment comprising of well designed, low maintenance, established gardens. The garden includes mature deciduous and native trees, fruit trees, raised vegetable/herb beds, cottage flowers, perennials, bulbs and extensive open lawn areas. The historic charm is enhanced by the ensemble of outbuildings, including the 2 storey stables, fowl and garden shed, a large 2 storey studio, sympathetically built with convict bricks and period fittings, a new Colorbond shed/garage and undercover parking.
The Jolly Farmer is located in one of Australia's oldest colonial villages. Established in 1821, Perth is only 15 minutes from Launceston and 8 minutes from the Airport. The property is near some of Australia's best wine producers, historic villages, and the township is home to more than 40 historic buildings, the popular Feast cafe, the Queens Head Inn, and an abundance of stores and services.
Whether the Jolly Farmer is your next family home or interstate weekender, it offers an exciting and remarkable opportunity to own one of Northern Tasmania's truly exceptional Georgian lifestyle properties.
For a private inspection, contact Dominic Romeo
DISCLAIMER: All dimensions are approximate only. Particulars given are for general information only and do not constitute any representation on the part of the Vendor or Agent. All prospective buyers must undertake their own due diligence less