Rupertswood Mansion

At the end of a long winding drive, nestled amongst mature trees, stands ?Rupertswood?. A remarkable architectural expression of the more genteel, Victorian era. Its magnificent proportions and unique gardens lay testimony to the privilege and power that prevailed on these grounds. Built as a residence for Sir William Clarke, (first Australian born Baronet), it became a power seat in the great English tradition. Balls, hunt meets and week?end house parties were frequent. Anyone of note, in Victorian and Edwardian society, was entertained by the Clarkes.Many historical figures visited ?Rupertswood?, including Dame Nellie Melba, several Governors of Victoria and a rumoured visit by the Duke and Duchess of York, (later to become King George V and Queen Mary). ?Rupertswood? is a place steeped in history, perhaps best known as the birthplace of the ?Ashes?, a tradition created from a social game between the visiting English Cricketers and a local Sunbury side, made up largely of Rupertswood staff. Today, Victoria?s most famous country house returns to its original function as a centre of great entertaining.