🌿 A ripper spot in Bowral for a peaceful arvo stroll, heritage vibes, and family-friendly fun!

Retford Park Bowral - Stunning Historic Gardens & Heritage House - Main park image showing the beautiful facilities and surroundings

Retford Park in Bowral is a beautiful National Trust property combining historic Italianate architecture with expansive, well-maintained gardens. Perfect for families and history buffs alike, the park offers guided tours of the grand house filled with antiques and art, plus vast outdoor spaces ideal for picnics, gentle walks, and enjoying nature. Dog lovers will appreciate the dog-friendly grounds, while parents will find mostly pram-friendly paths and peaceful picnic spots. Entry fees support the upkeep, and friendly volunteers provide engaging tours, making it a top destination for a relaxed day out in the Southern Highlands.

📍 Park Information

📍 Address	1325 Old S Rd, Bowral NSW 2576, Australia
📞 Phone	+61 2 4861 1933
🌐 Website	Website
⭐ Rating	4.7/5 (121 reviews)
🏙️ City	Bowral
🗺️ Coordinates	Google Map Link
🏗️ Facilities	parking public toilets bbq picnic shelter bubbler

🕐 Opening Hours

Day	Hours
Wednesday	Closed
Thursday	10:00-04:00
Friday	10:00-04:00
Saturday	10:00-04:00
Sunday	10:00-04:00
Monday	10:00-04:00
Tuesday	Closed

⭐ What Makes This Park Special

Family-Friendly Grounds & Picnics ✅

Retford Park is a great spot for families wanting a chilled day out. While there’s no dedicated playground, the vast gardens offer plenty of space for kids to roam and explore safely. Some pram-friendly paths make it easier for families with little ones, though a baby carrier might be better for trickier grassy spots. Visitors have enjoyed picnics on the lawns and chilling by the creek with carved tree seats, making it a lovely place to unwind with the family. Entry is free for kids under 5, which is a bonus for families planning a budget-friendly arvo.

Beautiful Views That'll Take Your Breath Away 🌅

The gardens at Retford Park are a real highlight, boasting rare and mature plants that change with the seasons, creating stunning vistas year-round. Visitors rave about the peaceful, serene atmosphere perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment to soak up nature’s beauty. The grounds include lovely themed garden areas, a creek with carved-out tree seats, and expansive lawns that invite you to bask in the Southern Highlands’ fresh air. It’s a top spot for snapping photos or just enjoying a calm escape from the hustle and bustle.

Peaceful Picnic Spots & Serene Walks 🦘

If you’re after a quiet arvo away from the crowds, Retford Park delivers with its tranquil gardens and shaded picnic areas. Visitors often mention the calm vibe and the chance to relax by the pool or creek, making it a perfect place to lay out a picnic mat and chill with mates or the family. The well-kept grounds and friendly volunteers add to the welcoming feel, making it easy to unwind and enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by history and nature.

Handy Facilities & Easy Access 🚗

Retford Park offers plenty of parking, which is a real win for families driving in from around Bowral and beyond. Public toilets and bubblers are available, making it easier to manage little ones and keep hydrated on warmer days. While most paths are pram-friendly, some grassy areas can be a bit tricky, so bringing a baby carrier is a smart move. The nearby honey shop and café at the adjacent Ngununggula Art Gallery add extra convenience for grabbing a bite or a cuppa during your visit.

💬 What Visitors Are Saying

Beautiful park
Perfect family day out if you love nature and want to spend time exploring a huge estate
A great spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll
Mostly pram-friendly, some grassy areas might be tricky to navigate with a pram
Heaps of parking and just perfect to witness the magic of Autumn
The gardens are amazing with some very very rare and extremely mature plants
Also super dog friendly
You are allowed to sit and chill on the grounds with a picnic mat and snacks
Great history, excellent guided tour by Jan
Public toilets and bubblers mentioned by visitors