Located in the heart of New England, an area well known for fine wool, prime lambs and cattle and most important of all, in the middle of great horse country you will find one of Australia’s most historic and beautiful cattle stations – just waiting for you to enjoy one of Australia’s unforgettable horse and cattle station adventures.
Waterloo Station was first discovered by Alexander Campbell in 1837 and was settled by the McIntyres of the Hunter Valley. Tradition says the discovery was by no means an uneventful one as Mr Campbell only secured his “prize” after a fist fight with another explorer who also claimed priority of possession hence the name Waterloo. The original property was estimated to be 118,000 acres (48,000 ha) or twenty and a half miles (36km). Founded on naturally fertile land for premium cattle production, the property had with an estimated carrying capacity of 1500 breeding cattle and carried a reputation as a fine cattle grazing property.
Waterloo Station has been held by just five owners in almost 180 years. Since their ownership, Don and Deborah Anderson have committed to protecting the history and improving this unique property and its surrounding environment. The Anderson family have lovingly restored all major buildings on the property in keeping with the history of the property, bringing it back to its former glory for you to enjoy. Driving through the gates of Waterloo Station you will feel of how it must have been to live in a pastoralist mansion a couple hundred years ago and you can now enjoy a real luxury cattle station experience and relive history in beautiful surroundings. Waterloo is a delightful place to relax and enjoy the pristine surrounds of this historical property.
The grand Waterloo homestead (circa 1908) and picturesque gardens provides an unforgettable insight into times past and offers superior country accommodation. For our luxury horse riding escapes and retreats, you can indulge and stay at the Waterloo Homestead with its grand proportions and historic surroundings where you will be sleeping in beautifully appointed rooms and enjoy Australian country hospitality at its absolute best. Regardless if you visit Waterloo Station for a luxury experience, to enjoy a romantic getaway, or if you come for the horse riding and cattle station experience, you will enjoy the insight into days gone by. It is absolutely beautiful, restful and peaceful with a sense of tranquility.
In the morning your horse will be waiting for you and once you return from your ride through the valley and along the rolling hillsides you will enjoy your afternoon on the veranda overlooking the most beautiful gardens having a cup of tea and tasting some (you can’t possibly stop after one, they are so delicious) of Deborah’s fresh scones. And before the sun goes down take a leisurely stroll where century old English elm trees watch over the beautifully manicured gardens before you go back to the homestead where drinks, followed by a wonderful dinner in the homestead’s stately dining room is calling for you to enjoy.
We do offer a number of unique horse and cattle station experiences at Waterloo throughout the year. The New England district has four distinct seasons to enjoy. Whether experiencing a cool crisp winter morning or a temperate summer’s day, Waterloo is sure to provide a memorable experience. After a long day in the saddle depending on the season, you can enjoy sitting in front of one of the many cosy fireplaces, or cool off in the clear refreshing creek on a hot summers day.
For non-riders there is plenty to do and see at the station and in the area. The property boasts a large variety of outdoor activities. Guests can try their hand at a range of pursuits from sapphire fossicking, bushwalking, trout fishing to exploring the properties seemingly endless hills which provide ample opportunity for bushwalking and wildlife spotting. The way the station is set-up, it’s also easy to jump into the 4WD and join up with the rider’s group along the way. However, please be warned that you might just want to sit in the garden on the veranda and enjoy the serenity and beauty of this wonderful place.
