One of the Adelaide Hills’ most striking venues, with a history that dates back 165 years, lets you dine overlooking heritage-listed gardens, with stories stretching way beyond the dinner table.
The property has been a coaching hotel, millionaire’s country mansion, convalescent hospital, wartime recovery home and more throughout its long history.
Originally built in 1860 by Lachlan Macfarlan, the property has evolved repeatedly over the generations while retaining much of its historic character
Tucked away in Mount Barker, Auchendarroch House is a striking venue and today it’s home to the Oak & Iron Tavern, a relaxed restaurant where you can settle in for a long lunch, cosy dinner or an easy Hills catch-up.
The tavern comes into its own, with two fireplaces giving off a warm glow while guests settle in with views across the gardens and changing seasons of the Hills.
In warmer weather, the experience spills into the gardens, where guests can wander beneath the grand oak trees before or after their meal. Behind the hedge are Auchendarroch’s heritage-listed gardens, where a garden map can guide visitors through the property’s trees, roses and plantings.
When it comes to food, the Oak & Iron’s diverse menu keeps things uncomplicated.
Whether it’s a birthday dinner, catch-up with friends or one of those “let’s go somewhere nice tonight” occasions, there’s something for pretty much every taste. From burgers and pizzas to Asian salad plates, desserts and something for the kids.
Rather than feeling like an afterthought, Oak & Iron also keep vegetarian and vegan options at the forefront, for those who feel like their dietary puts them behind.
Images: Tom Lane
For visitors, it also offers a different way to experience the Adelaide Hills beyond the region’s wineries, with food, history and gardens all in one stop.
And with the Wallis cinema next door, you can easily turn a meal into a whole night out, pairing dinner and drinks with one of the latest releases and popcorn afterwards.
Auchendarroch is much bigger than the tavern itself. The restored house and gardens host weddings, celebrations, meetings and events, with the croquet lawn able to hold gatherings of up to 500 people.
Importantly you’re dining within a piece of Adelaide Hills history, surrounded by gardens, old trees and a building that has seen generations come and go.
It’s the perfect place to meet, eat, and do it on repeat.
Oak and Iron
Where: 17 Adelaide Road, Mount Barker
For more info, click here.
