If you thought Carrick Hill couldn’t get any prettier, wait until you see its newest addition.
The 100-acre estate has unveiled a charming new garden terrace kiosk affectionately called “Little Pocket of Joy”, nestled right beside the house and Rozelle’s Restaurant.
Director Susan McCormack says the idea was inspired by the property’s long history of hospitality.
Carrick Hill remains one of South Australia’s most treasured destinations and is home to Australia’s most intact period mansion surrounded by stunning gardens.
“People love being near the house,” she says.
“Traditionally there was a café in this space, it was the old marquee, and many people who’ve been to Carrick Hill might remember it. We always wanted to recreate something on the terrace so visitors could enjoy both the beautiful view and the heritage gardens.”
The result is “Little Pocket of Joy”—a relaxed, open-air coffee kiosk that feels perfectly at home among the roses and greenery.
“It’s a beautifully designed garden terrace by Virginia Kennett, with a new entrance and an expanded museum shop as part of the redevelopment,” Susan explains. “It really is a little pocket of joy.”
Visitors can grab a coffee, sweet treat or light bite and enjoy it picnic-style on the lawns or at one of the terrace tables.
“It’s perfect if you just want a coffee or snack, or if you’re bringing your dog for a walk,” Susan says.
“You don’t need to book, just come up, grab something and enjoy the gardens.”
The menu is simple but thoughtful, offering drinks, cakes, sandwiches, sausage rolls and gelato, all prepared by the Favaro family catering team—the same people behind Chianti and Bar Torino.
“It’s really fantastic, proper cooking,” she says. “Good quality, really delicious.”
For those looking for something a little stronger, the outdoor cafe is also licensed.
“You can sit on the terrace with a glass of wine or an aperitif,” Susan says.
“We’ve got beer, wine and spritzes. It’s a lovely spot to just relax and take in the view.”
“It’s for mornings and lunch at the moment, but if it gets busy, we might extend the hours,” Susan says.
“Rozelle’s Restaurant is open on Friday nights too, so you can come up for dinner and watch the sunset. It’s one of the best views in Adelaide.”
She’s not exaggerating. From the terrace, you can see right across the city to the Gulf of St Vincent, framed by 1000 blooming roses and heritage trees.
“It’s just glorious. At the end of the day you get the birds coming back, the gardens glowing in the light. It’s really gorgeous,” says Susan.
Inside the main building, visitors will also find a revitalised museum shop.
“It’s like a traditional country house shop,” Susan says.
“We’ve brought in items from the UK, beautiful fashion, homewares, books, gardening tools, and some lovely Christmas gifts. You won’t find many of these things anywhere else in Adelaide.”
With its relaxed charm, curated menu and those incredible garden views, “Little Pocket of Joy” looks set to become one of Adelaide’s most beloved new coffee spots with a view.
Carrick Hill
Where: 46 Carrick Hill Dr, Springfield
When: The kiosk is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 2pm, weather permitting.
For more information, click here.
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