Grand gothic home Mayfield seeks new custodian after 27 years

4 weeks ago 16

No.9 Stoke St, New Town. Picture: Supplied


The chance to become Mayfield’s custodian comes along only so often.

At No.9 Stoke St, it has been 27 years since this grand gothic masterpiece was last on the market.

Its owners have raised a family within its walls, and made lasting memories along the way.

They have cared for this mid-1800s piece of Hobart history with attention and care. But now the time is right for its owners to see it move on to new custodians.

Peterswald director Nick Morgan said, with a historic home such as this one, the main buyer demographic was people who adore history.

“It’s the character and the charm and the patina of a classic home that enchants them, and for these types of buyers, the simplicity of a clean-lined modern home doesn’t have the same appeal,” he said.

“Mayfield is an aspirational property, located in one of New Town’s most prestigious streets.

“A three-level historic mansion on a large block that’s walking distance from Hobart’s CBD? That’s a rare find.”

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No.9 Stoke St, New Town.


No.9 Stoke St, New Town.


No.9 Stoke St, New Town.


Mr Morgan said at inspections people have been wowed by the peek into the past that this home offers.

“They have been taken aback by the property’s grandeur, by the outstanding architecture,” he said.

“One party asked if they could take some photos. They were so stunned by how incredible it was.

“There are very few comparable homes in Hobart.”

Approaching Mayfield from the Argyle end of Stoke St, this six-bedroom home is pretty much hidden from view by tall trees, fences and a gate.

But you can catch a glimpse of the gardens and a path leading to something. Turns out, that something is something truly special.

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No.9 Stoke St, New Town.


No.9 Stoke St, New Town.


The land where Mayfield stands was originally part of the Boa Vista Estate.

John Matthew May, the superintendent of the Convict Establishments at Hobart Town, purchased about two acres of land from this estate in the 1850s and built two symmetrical houses.

Mayfield is noted as a remarkable example of early Victorian Gothic architecture.

The heritage-listed, three-storey residence feels as though it has been lifted straight from an English storybook.

Thought to be designed by Alexander Dawson, who was responsible for some of Tasmania’s most significant Gothic buildings — including the Hobart Town High School — No.9 showcases all the defining elements of the style: soaring pitched roofs, ornate parapets, decorative gables and archways, and beautifully proportioned brickwork.

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No.9 Stoke St, New Town.


No.9 Stoke St, New Town.


High ceilings, generous rooms, floorboards and Gothic detailing come together to create an enviable living experience, enhanced by the warmth of natural light that filters through every level.

The ground floor of the home offers a series of beautiful living spaces, including an elegant dining room, a refined living room with bay window, and a cosy library.

Toward the rear, the kitchen has a lovely outlook over the expansive back garden. Here, double-glazed skylights enhance the warmth and clarity of the space, and direct access to the courtyard creates an effortless flow for outdoor dining and family gatherings.

A bathroom and well-proportioned laundry complete this level.

The upper floor is home to the master bedroom with an ensuite, two additional bedrooms and a study or fourth bedroom, plus the main bathroom.

Each room feels peaceful and inviting, with elevated views and beautiful light enhancing their sense of space.

No.9 Stoke St, New Town.


No.9 Stoke St, New Town.


On the lower ground floor, an entire additional living domain offers remarkable versatility.

There is a large lounge, a bedroom, a study or additional bedroom, a bathroom and a kitchenette, making it ideal for extended family, guests, creative pursuits or potential semi-independent living.

With its own access to the garden, it seamlessly blends practicality with privacy.

The property spans 1747sq m, creating an extraordinary garden setting.

The rear yard is expansive, private and sun-drenched, while the front garden is framed by mature plantings that add further charm and a sense of seclusion.

For vehicles, there is a lot of off-street parking conveniently alongside the home.

Extensive restoration work has recently been completed, including full internal and external painting, carefully preserving the home’s character while enhancing its longevity.

No.9 Stoke St, New Town.


No.9 Stoke St, New Town.


People often say ‘if only the walls could talk’, and at Mayfield Mr Morgan said they would have some tales to tell.

He said the property became a focal point of public scrutiny during construction when questions were raised about the use of convict labour and mislabelled materials shipped from Port Arthur.

“The event, later known as the Hampton Affair, has since become a fascinating piece of local heritage that adds depth and intrigue to Mayfield’s story,” he said.

Situated in one of New Town’s most admired and historically significant streets, the home is surrounded by some of Hobart’s grandest early residences.

Just 4km from the CBD, and close to leading schools, cafes, and shopping precincts, the location offers exceptional convenience while maintaining a quiet, prestigious atmosphere.

The property also benefits from a right of way providing convenient access to Boa Vista Rd, further enhancing practicality.

This landmark New Town estate presents an exceptionally rare opportunity to secure a Hobart heritage treasure. It is listed for sale with Peterswald in the $2.2m-plus price range.

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