During the 1850s, Castlemaine was known as one of the richest shallow alluvial goldfields in the world, and with the gold discoveries came great wealth, industry and development. Today the historic township boasts grand architectural buildings and gardens built from the riches of the goldfields. Doriston is an exceptional example and testament to this wealth and today, stands as one of Castlemaine’s gracious family homes, in Campbell Street – a historic classified streetscape with remarkably intact homes of the period. The site was originally granted to George Hunter in 1858. George, who was a carpenter, built a weatherboard cottage and resided here until he sold it in 1894 to liquor merchant/entrepreneur John Beckingsale. John soon set about building his family home in 1895, in the Second Empire style of architecture. He named it Doriston. It became the Beckinsale’s beloved family home for over 80 years before it was sold to Dr Taylor, a prominent local surgeon. He and his wife were avid gardeners and restorers. Today Doriston is as solid and gracious as the day it was built 129 years ago and remains a much-admired family home. The 297m2 home is beautifully framed by a picket fence and a garden of flowering perennials, cottage plants, and deciduous trees. The façade has wonderful symmetry balanced by a deep verandah, ornate cast iron lace work, bay window, polychromatic brick work, slate roof, ornate chimneys, iron ridge cresting and finials. These were all features designed to impress and make a lasting statement. Tastefully and thoughtfully restored, everything has been considered for today’s modern living yet, retaining all of its architectural, historic and intrinsic character. All the hard work has been completed. The solid front door with exquisite stain glass opens into a long and wide arched hallway. Off the main hallway are the formal rooms, master bedroom, bathroom, second bedroom and studio/dressing room. The side hall leads to a third bedroom, library/informal living room, second bathroom and the huge open plan fully equipped kitchen/dining with extensive preparation benches, cabinetry and wide picture windows. French doors flow onto the expansive decking overlooking the garden – perfect for alfresco dining. Stairs take you down to the fourth bedroom, large sunroom/informal living room, laundry and separate toilet. The cellarage consists of two large rooms with external access. The historic interior is equally impressive with four-meter ceilings, ornate cornicing, rosettes, nine ornate marble and timber fireplaces, wide pine floorboards, multipaned doors and full length sash windows. All town services are provided, including gas ducted heating, ducted and reverse cycle air-conditioning and the home has been fully insulated including underfloor. The property includes a three-car garage, powered workshop, chook shed/run and 15,000 litre water tank. The huge 1,012m2 allotment includes an established garden with open grassed areas, a wonderful oak, fruit trees and vegetable/herb garden. Doriston is positioned only a few minutes’ walk to Castlemaine’s vibrant centre. The town is known for its stable climate, festivals and farmers markets, botanical gardens established in 1856, eclectic art scene and vibrant artistic community, historic architecture, gold rush history, renowned cafes, pubs and restaurants, boutique and indie stores, bakeries, artisan produce stores, galleries, antique and book shops, the famous Theatre Royal – continuously used since 1857, schools, and community services. The popular Kalimna Flora and Fauna Park is only a 5 minute walk from your front door. The regional city of Bendigo, historic townships of Maldon, Newstead and Chewton are all nearby and Melbourne CBD and Melbourne Airport is a scenic 100km drive or you can choose to take the relaxing and comfortable express train service. Whether Doriston is your next family home, country weekender, or an upmarket accommodation venture – the property offers an exciting opportunity to be a part of history and own one of Castlemaine’s truly exceptional historic family homes, in one of Victoria’s culturally and historically rich country towns. For further information or to arrange a private inspection, please contact Sue Gratton on – 0407 599 559 or email – sue@circaheritageandlifestyle.com.au
