Rippon Lea Estate Melbourne

Summer Sounds at Rippon Lea Estate

Rippon Lea Estate is once again hosting its Summer Sessions in the grounds of this historic National Trust estate. Set in the beautiful gardens, there is no better location for a relaxing afternoon of picnicking, lawn games and live music.

There was unfortunately little sign of summer on the Sunday I selected for this review. Instead, grey clouds hovered and the heavens opened.  Luckily, this did not dampen the spirits of the duet (both sang and one played the guitar) who played a variety of songs and chatted with guests. Due to the weather, it was a quiet day.  Still, there was a laid-back atmosphere and at least there was no fighting for space!

We managed to get through our picnic without a soaking and took a walk through the grounds, which cover more than 14 acres. At this time of year, the heritage orchard is bursting with apples, much to the delight of the lorikeets feasting upon them.

Tickets to the Summer Sessions  include entrance to the mansion, but regrettably this was closed for filming so I am not able to shed any light on the interior, although I am confident it would be worth a visit. We did visit the Gatehouse café for a much-needed hot chocolate, which was lovely.

Despite the conditions, we enjoyed the afternoon and it was a great opportunity to visit a local heritage estate; in fact, the first in Australia to achieve National Heritage Listing. All the staff we came across were very friendly and helpful and obviously wanted us to enjoy the day as best we could.

I can imagine on a warm summer’s day the afternoon would have been more pleasant and we would have been tempted to linger all afternoon. I will just have to wait for that sunny day to come to return.

– Rachel
Celebrating five years living in Melbourne, Rachel is a fan of theatre, food, the outdoors and all things new and exciting.

Summer Sounds in running every Sunday from 12-4pm until Sunday 26 March at Rippon Lea Estate (192 Hotham St, Elsternwick VIC). Tickets can be purchased at the door.
This venue is accessible.

Disclosure: The Plus Ones were invited guests of National Trust Victoria.
Image credit: Rippon Lea Estate and The Plus Ones.