One of northern NSW’s most iconic rural estates, Blair Athol Estate, is now on the market, offering buyers a rare opportunity to secure a magnificent slice of history.

Originally built around 1904 and designed by the renowned architect Herbert E. Ross, and listed by Nellie Hayes, Director of Raine & Horne Armidale/Glen Innes, this grand heritage estate at 37 Blair Athol Road, Inverell, combines old-world charm with modern wellness features, set across 54 acres of elevated, park-like land.

The main homestead spans two levels with triple-brick exterior walls on the ground floor and double-brick walls on the upper level. It offers seven bedrooms and six bathrooms, featuring original fireplaces, pressed metal ceilings, and etched and leadlight windows.

Formal areas include a drawing room, dining room, sitting room, and a central foyer with stained glass and original timber details. The commercial-grade kitchen and adjoining butler’s pantry feature a 900mm oven, dishwasher, and a central island bench.

“Blair Athol features stunning period architecture, while additional accommodation includes a coach house and cottage, making the property ideal for multigenerational living or luxury guest stays,” said Nellie.

Adding to its allure, Blair Athol features a mineral pool and spa, an infrared sauna, a float tank, and treatment rooms, as the estate was previously home to a thriving day spa business.

While the existing business is not part of the sale, Nellie says buyers have the option to continue operating it. “Or simply enjoy the mineral pool, float tanks and the other wellness amenities as part of their private country retreat.

“Mineral pools are uncommon in private estates and provide a unique asset for personal use or retreat-style operations.”

Strong buyer interest and a rare turnkey opportunity

According to Nellie, interest in Blair Athol has already been strong from buyers across Sydney, Brisbane, and coastal regions, as well as international interest from expatriates in China, with more than half of the enquiries being for private residential use.

The property also offers the option to be sold fully furnished, with an extensive 14-page inventory available for negotiation. “This gives buyers the rare opportunity to acquire a turnkey heritage estate, complete with carefully curated pieces that complement Blair Athol’s historic character, Nellie said.

“Furnishing a property of this scale and character can take years, not to mention the significant costs of sourcing, transport, and installation.

“Blair Athol eliminates that challenge, with the option to secure an extensive inventory of carefully selected pieces— including four-poster beds in nearly every room—making this a true turnkey offering.

Expansive grounds, heritage gardens, combined with sustainability

Outside, there’s an impressive array of external structures, including a three-bay garage and carport, original stables, loading ramp, potting shed, dairy shed, garden sheds, and a greenhouse.

The estate also features a tennis court and well-established gardens, some of which date back to the 1860s. These gardens are home to Lemon-Scented Gums, Jacarandas, Bunya and Himalayan Pines, Moreton Bay Figs, Walnut & Chestnut Trees, Blue Atlas Cedars, and a Wisteria Arbour. A comprehensive list of trees is available upon request.

The property’s water supply includes rainwater tanks, a submersible groundwater bore, and town water to the gate. A 24.20-panel solar system (installed 18 months ago) with new inverters supports 3-phase power, ensuring energy efficiency. It is supported by an instant gas hot water system for the spa and a new heat pump system for the other dwellings.

“This is a truly unique offering—a heritage estate with unmatched character, sustainability and lifestyle appeal,” said Nellie.

“Opportunities like Blair Athol don’t come along often.”

That being said, Nellie has also listed the magnificent The Convent in Glen Innes, which has already attracted outstanding media attention.

Originally opened in 1884 as St Joseph's Convent School, it is now one of the most breathtaking and well-preserved landmarks in NSW’s New England region. The property has been featured widely, including on Million Dollar Listing Sydney, The Today Show, and in a major feature by Domain[i].

“The Convent is also such a unique and beautiful property,” Nellie said.

For more information on “Blair Athol” or the “Convent”, contact Raine & Horne Armidale/Glen Innes on 0458 326 464.

[i] https://www.domain.com.au/news/140-year-old-glen-innes-convent-with-23-bedrooms-costs-less-than-a-sydney-house-1400472/