About Soho Estate
Soho Estate in Drysdale on the Bellarine is one of Victoria's grand historic estates, as one of Victoria's oldest station properties - only 90 min drive from Melbourne and 30 min from Geelong .
Built in 1860 and now restored to it's former glory, this magnificant country estate is now home to one of Victoria's newest and most exciting wedding, event and boutique accommodation venues.
Your Unique Celebration in Your Unique Way
A Very Brief History of Soho Estate
Soho Estate's history can be divided into a number of major periods.
Originally built by Samuel Lees in 1883-84 on 4000 acres, the house was named "Soho" after an iron foundry in Lees' hometown, Oldham, England and the Victorian Eclecticism style homestead was designed by architects Watts and Jackson.
After Lees' death in 1885, the property passed to his widow, Mary, and was later sold to Frank Armytage in 1909, who subdivided the land in 1912.
In 1926, the house was purchased by Thos Ellis, who commissioned renovations including the addition of a laundry, septic tank, and stormwater drains.
After Ellis' death, G.A. Mitchell became the new owner, and further modifications were made to the building.
By 1951, the property, reduced to 850 acres, was bought by Frank R.W. Spry. Over the years, significant changes occurred, including the removal of decorative iron lacework and alterations to the verandahs.
In 1977, the property was sold to Peter Russell Clark, the original Australian "celebrity chef", cookbook writer and media personality, who owned the property for 30 years, and ran a restaurant, gallery and lemon farm here.
Soho Estate Today
Over recent years, this magnificant heritage property has been sigificantly restored to it's original grandeur and while the estate's architectural features have evolved, its historical essence remains intact.
Today, as one of the state's grand historic estates, we're proud to share Soho as now home to one of Victoria's newest and most exciting wedding and event venues.
Blessed with panoramic views, historic botanic gardens, ornamental lakes plus modern resort facilities, Soho has unique locations and historic venues throughout the property, perfect for your celebration.
Soho Estate offers a range of flexible options to suit celebrations big and small, DIY or fully catered, as a stunning venue for your memorable weddings, special party or unequaled corporate event.
We also offer boutique accomodation options within the estate, to help you, your family and special friends relax and enjoy your special occasion.
Your Unique Celebration in Your Unique Way
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