Merribee Gardens: From Dairy Farm to Dreamy Gardens

Escape to the French countryside right here in NSW at the beautiful Merribee Gardens. 

Nestled in the Shoalhaven region of New South Wales, Merribee Gardens is a destination that feels a world away from everyday life — an inviting blend of history, horticulture and country charm that appeals to families who love exploring outdoors together.

Merribee Gardens: From Dairy Farm to Dreamy Gardens

Garden lovers, green thumb owners, or those who love nothing more than being outside amongst exquisite natural beauty are invited to visit the gardens of Merribee Gardens. Alongside their plant nursery and gift shop, there are eight gardens at Merribee Gardens, all of which are open for browsing, including:

• Rose Garden
• Hedged Potager Garden
• Walled Snow Pear Garden
• Cottage Garden
• Crepe Myrtle Walk
• Herb Garden
• Lavender Paddock
• Bunya Bunya Copse 
• Hedging, topiary and rose nursery.

The History of Merribee Gardens

Once a dairy pasture on land first settled in the 1820s, this seven-acre property has been transformed over the past two decades by Lucy and Richard Marshall into a series of themed "botanical rooms," including fragrant rose gardens, a walled wisteria area, a lavender paddock and edible and apothecary plantings that delight children and adults alike with varied colours, scents and hidden pathways waiting to be discovered. Roughly 2 hours from Sydney, the Gardens offer a mingling of coastal NSW and French Country flair.

Open Days at the Gardens

If you're planning to visit Merribee Gardens, unfortunately, you can only do so on their Open Days, which are currently on Thursdays and Sundays and are subject to change. It's best to visit their website before travelling.

Merribee Gardens also serves as a wedding venue on other days of the week, so it's essential to book your visit in advance. 

Does Merribee Have Accommodation?

While the gardens are open to visitors on selected days throughout the year — perfect for a scenic afternoon walk, picnic or nature-inspired outing — families looking to extend their visit can also stay on-site. Merribee offers a range of accommodation options, from charming villas and a converted grain silo to larger homesteads, all thoughtfully appointed and welcoming to guests of all ages, making it a memorable weekend getaway destination.

With its rich history rooted in early settlement and its present life as a cultivated garden estate, Merribee Gardens combines heritage with sensory outdoor experiences that encourage exploration, relaxation, and family time immersed in nature.

Location & Opening Hours

660 Comerong Island Road, Numbaa NSW

Admission is typically $15 per adult and $5 per child, though this may vary.

Currently open on Thursdays and Sundays

More Sunday Drive Ideas

Pick Your Own Oranges at Dooralong
Berowra Waters
The Australian Botanic Garden, Mount Annan

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