THE HISTORY OF
BECKWORTH RETREAT
PET FRIENDLY ACCOMMODATION NEAR CLUNES, VIC
The Branigan family recently celebrated 160+ years of farming on this land that was originally part of the "Glendaruel" squatting lease.
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Having arrived from Ireland in 1861 with very little (even leaving older children behind) Henry and Janet Branigan became the proud owners of land, now containing Beckworth Retreat, after walking for days to get to the title office in Melbourne and paying the £1 per acre.​
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The original house sites can all still be seen on the farm and there are plenty of photos and stories to show how tough the living must have been in those early years.
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However, living on Beckworth Creek, the families were totally self-sufficient growing grains and fruit trees, as well as having sheep, horses to do farmwork and cows for dairy produce.
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Janet Branigan was famous for taking her Rose Brand butter to the markets in Ballarat in the early 1900's.
Currently, the most recent farm cottage has gone through an extensive renovation.
And the extra accommodation have been purpose built for couples or families who want to experience the quiet farm life, with all the comforts when sleeping or relaxing inside.
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Groups or families of up to 14 guests can be accommodated in various configurations and one room is set up for Universal Access including the bathroom.
The two Family spaces (each with 2 Bedrooms/1 Bathroom) are joined by a verandah for easy access to the shared facilities, which include:
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Guest Kitchen including BBQ cooking
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Fire-pit
Two double Bedrooms and a Bathroom are also contained within the main farmhouse area.
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Both hosts (Barbara &Bradley) are around if you need any assistance.
Bedroom arrangements are flexible ie King Bed or Twins and extra single trundles if required.
Please contact us to discuss your requirements, as there are several options available
including baby bassinet or Universal Access facilities
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At Beckworth Retreat, we welcome your furry companions to join you on holiday!
Please note that our paddocks, located right next to the house, often have ewes and lambs grazing.
Book your stay and enjoy a relaxing, pet-friendly getaway in nature!
