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Riccarton House & Bush

Christchurch’s Guided Heritage Tours

Unveiling Christchurch's History: A Journey Through Riccarton House and Dean Cottage

Unveil the rich tapestry of Christchurch’s past at Riccarton House, a captivating estate boasting a historic homestead, charming cottage, and sprawling native bush. Nestled just 3.5 kilometres from Christchurch’s bustling centre, Riccarton House offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and immerse yourself in the fascinating story of the Deans family. These pioneering settlers shaped the city’s early history.

Riccarton House & Bush is located just 3.5 km from Christchurch city centre. set in a tranquil 12 hectre reserve. a unique New Zealand heritage site consisting of two historic buildings, flanked by beautiful open parkland and ornate gardens, bordered by the River Avon and set against extensive native bush forest featuring Kahikatea trees up to 600 years old.

Step back into history and experience a world of Victorian and Edwardian splendour offering you a glimpse of days gone by. Riccarton House is a grand Victorian/Edwardian homestead fully restored and is decorated and furnished in appropriate period style. Surrounded by lawns, mature trees, gardens and native bush, and bordered by the River Avon, the House enjoys the elegant setting of a bygone era.

Riccarton House: A Guided Journey Through History

Immerse yourself in the captivating story of the Deans family with a guided tour of Riccarton House. Explore the meticulously restored rooms, each adorned with period pieces reflecting 19th-century life. From the grand drawing room to the intimate bedrooms, gain a deeper understanding of the family’s triumphs and struggles, their daily routines, and their lasting impact on Christchurch’s development.

Immerse yourself in the captivating story of the Deans family with a guided 

Highlights of the Riccarton House Guided Tour:

  • A Family’s Legacy: Uncover the fascinating narrative of the Deans family, from their Scottish roots to their triumphs and tragedies in New Zealand.
  • Over 20 Restored Rooms: Journey through time as you explore meticulously restored rooms, each with unique furnishings and reflecting a specific period.
  • A Glimpse into the Past: Experience life as it was in the 19th century. Visit diverse rooms like the Victorian dining room, nursery, coal cellar, Edwardian bedrooms, and Jane Deans’ 1856 bedroom.
  • Authentic Artifacts: Immerse yourself in history with original family items on display, including china, furniture, footwear, and even a violin.
  • A Guaranteed Enjoyable Experience: Our engaging tour caters to all ages and interests. We’re confident you’ll leave with unforgettable memories.

Beyond the Tour:

  • Peaceful Exploration: After your tour, take a relaxing stroll through the verdant grounds or wander the park.
  • Delightful Refreshments: Conclude your visit with a satisfying morning or afternoon tea, lunch, or superb coffee. Enjoy it in the Drawing Room restaurant or the picturesque rose garden courtyard.
Vintage cars on display at Rivvarton House, Christchurch
Riccarton House and Gardens

Riccarton's History: A Journey to Dean Cottage

Step back in time and discover Dean Cottage, the oldest surviving dwelling on Canterbury Plains. Built in 1843 by Samuel Manson for the pioneering Scottish brothers William and John Deans, this charming cottage offers a glimpse into the lives of early settlers.

A Pioneering Legacy:

  • The First Riccarton Home: Dean Cottage served as the first home for the Deans as they established their farm.
  • Simple Living: Explore the cottage’s functional living spaces and imagine the daily routines of the Deans.

A Touching Story:

  • Tragic Loss: Learn about the untimely deaths of William and John Deans, shaping the cottage’s history.
  • Jane Deans’ Perseverance: Discover how Jane Deans continued to live in the cottage with her son until Riccarton House was completed.

A Tranquil Escape:

  • Native Bush Haven: Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surrounding 12-hectare reserve teeming with native flora and fauna.
  • Towering Sentinels: Stand beneath the majestic kahikatea trees, some reaching 600 years old, and feel a connection to the land’s rich history.
Deans Cottage, Riccarton House
Deans Cottgae in spring at Riccarton House, Christchurch

Times and Pricing (Cash Only – please)

Sunday to Friday at 2pm. Allow up to 1 hour

 

  • Adults $20
  • Student with ID $13
  • Senior (over 65) $16
  • Children (5 to 18) $5
  • Children under 5 free
  • Family $40 (2 adults plus 2 or more children)

Riccarton House Private Tours

We also offer private tours for pre-booked groups at times to suit. We can host clubs, societies, corporate and family and social groups, etc.

An evening candlelit tour is a special experience. Morning/afternoon teas, lunch or cocktail food and beverage can be built into a tour package.

 

Phone: (+64) 03 341 1018                        Email: [email protected]

Visit our Website:  riccartonhouse.co.nz/

"Local" - Riccarton House Restaurant & Venue.

Located at the historic homestead of Riccarton House, The Local Restaurant offers wholesome seasonal and rustic food. Dine either alfresco in our gorgeous rose courtyard or sit inside one of the heritage rooms with open fires and views over the Avon river.

Headed up by Sam Marchant, the owner of the Christchurch Farmers Market, Sam has a passion for local produce and to support those people that produce locally.

His menu at the Local. is seasonally changing and is a very garden-to-plate philosophy. The 5 planter boxes outside his kitchen window provide a wonderful selection of ever changing vegetable ingredients as well as fresh herbs, along with locally brewed ales including Wigram Beer, Pegasus Bay Wines, Hummingbird Coffee and Aroha Elderflower range.

Many of our ingredients are sourced from our very own Farmers Market held every Saturday from 9am on the grounds of the restaurant. 

The restaurant is open Wednesday  – Friday 10.00am till 4pm and  Sun from 9am – 4pm.

Saturday the restaurant is closed due to the Christchurch Farmers Market. 

 

Please contact the Restaurant on: 03 348 6190

 

                   

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