FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

General Q & A

Q: Why is Hopewood House an exclusive venue?
A: Hopewood House, established in 1884 is a classical, timeless estate of the grand Victorian era. The privately owned property is set on eleven acres of beautifully manicured gardens – an outstanding setting even by Southern Highlands standards. Exclusivity is enhanced by only 30 events permitted per year. Hopewood House has been hosting events for over 20 years. We will never book two weddings or events on the same day, you will always have exclusive access to the estate.

Q: What days are weddings/events permitted?
A: Due to Council regulations Hopewood House is only able to host weddings/events on Saturday’s.

Q: What does the venue hire fee include?
A: Hire is for the exclusive use of Hopewood House Estate (excluding The Original Residence) and includes crockery, glassware, napery, chairs and tables. Catering/Drinks is an additional cost.

Q: How do I arrange a viewing of the Estate?
A:  Please submit an enquiry via the ‘Contact Us’ page or using the contact details at the bottom of the webpage.

Q: Is there any accommodation at Hopewood House?
A: Yes! We have two cottages available for hire. The Artist's Cottage which has two bedrooms (1 KING | 1 QUEEN ) and the Caretakers Cottage which has 3 bedrooms (1 KING & 2 QUEENS).

Q: Where is Hopewood House located?
A: You can find Hopewood on the map at: 201 Centennial Road, Bowral, NSW 2576 - a leisurely 90-minute drive from Sydney.

Entertainment Q & A

Q: What if we want a band or to bring our own DJ?
A: As a general rule Hopewood House does not allow bands. DJs who responsibly adhere to sound restrictions can be considered. Should you wish to discuss further please contact us.

Q: Is there anything else I should know about entertainment?
A: Hopewood House is a private estate nestled in the Bowral community. Hopewood keeps our neighbours and the community in mind (along with local Councils enforcement of strict sound level laws). Hopewood House has an 85 decibel noise restriction when measured from within the venue. DJs must only play in the downstairs pavilion and connect via the Hopewood House sound system. All music must cease by 11:15pm.

Wedding: Ceremony Q & A

Q: Is there a wet weather option for the wedding ceremony?
A: Yes! The Bong Bong Lounge and Bar is a lovely location for a ceremony, rain, hail or shine (ground floor - The Pavilion). The ceremony takes place under the chandelier in front of the grand windows - with views across Austin's lawn - a stunning backdrop for photos. Check out our galleries page to see this space styled for a ceremony.

Q: Are there chairs available for the ceremony (indoor/outdoor)?
A: Hopewood House will provide and set up 40 x white chairs or Phillipe Starck Louis Ghost chairs for your ceremony. Additional chairs are available at a small cost.

Q: What are the measurements and seating arrangements for the Wedding Lawn?
A: The garden measures 24m (length) x 11 m (width), with a recommended aisle of 2m (wide). We suggest 4 or 6 chairs either side of the aisle.

EVENTS & WEDDING RECEPTION Q & A

Q: Catering, Can I design my own menu selections to suit my tastes?
A: Yes, of course. All menus are seasonal and use the highest quality produce. You will enjoy personalised consultations with Simon Ekas Catering to tailor a menu.

Q: What kinds of table arrangements can I have?
A: There is a choice of tables – Circular (up to 10 guests per table, size 1.8m in diameter) or Hopewood House banquet tables (size 2.4m length x 1.2m width), the increased width allows for comfortable placement of centre pieces, shared platters, candles etc.

Q: What kinds of chairs are provided for the reception?
A: Original walnut Bentwood chairs with cream leather cushions.

Q: Can I bring my own alcohol?
A: Hopewood House is a fully licensed venue and as such does not allow wines or spirits be brought on-site.

TRANSPORT & PARKING Q & A

Q: Is there on-site parking available at Hopewood House?
A: Parking is limited to 20 cars on the property. There is no parking allowed on Centennial Road. If you expect your car parking requirements will exceed this number please contact us to discuss. We suggest hiring coaches to transport guests to and from the estate, with all guests to be vacated by 11:30pm. We can assist with contact details for an excellent local company.

OTHER Q & A

Q: Can I use the Hopewood House logo and/or other graphics in my event stationery?
A: Yes of course the logo/graphics asset files are available on request when bookings are confirmed.

Q: Can you help me source suppliers for my wedding/event?
A: Yes, absolutely! We have an extensive compendium of suppliers ranging from florists, furniture hire, babysitters, photographers, to everyone in between.

Q: Can we bring a drone onsite for filming?
A: Yes, however the drone must fly strictly within the Estate boundaries. Please meet with the team on-site before take-off for further details.

Q: Are maps, floorplans & aerial views available for Hopewood House??
A: We are in the process of finalising our updated 2018 information. Please ask and we can of course provide interim details.