222 Mt Horrible Road, Timaru Surrounds, Timaru

Castle Claremont

Nothing rivals this historic estate, crafted from the finest granite over three painstaking years from 1884 to 1887. Built by artisans brought in from England and adorned with imported woodwork, this home once housed Lord Ranfurly, Governor of New Zealand, and has stood as a commanding presence for over 135 years.

Enter through the grand entrance into an atmosphere echoing a distinguished past. The ground floor boasts a magnificent parlour with French doors opening to gardens, a library, an expansive dining room, a study, and two adjoining kitchens. A sweeping staircase leads to ten bedrooms, including three grand suites with ensuites, a nanny suite, additional double bedrooms, and charming servant quarters.

The estate has its own chapel, a conference hall, and two additional two-bedroom units. Spanning over 11.8 hectares (more or less) of lush lawns, gardens, and forested areas, the grounds offer ample open land for endless possibilities. Set across two titles with dual road access, and only an eight-minute drive to town, this meticulously restored freehold landmark is a true national treasure, awaiting its next custodian.