Hughes Park

Hughes Park is a historic Clare Valley property set on 7,000 acres of land and nestled in the picturesque Skilly Hills, just 2km from Watervale. This dry-hire space is a venue with many stories to tell.

Entering the property through the gates of the cute white picket fence, the driveway is lined with towering poplars and you are surrounded by shady oak trees, providing the perfect backdrop for a private country wedding.

The Hughes Park homestead was built in 1860 by Sir Walter Watson Hughes, who was the co-founder of Adelaide University, and discovered the Wallaroo and Moonta Mines. The building itself was constructed out of stone quarried on the property, and while only a single story when finished, had a second story added to the grand building in 1890.

7 generations of the one family have lived at Hughes Park, which is now a sheep farming property. The current custodians Andrew and Alice Duncan, along with their four children Daisy, Millie, Sophia and Tom, have put their heart and soul into restoring this magnificent homestead, adding modern amenities while keeping much of the history of the building intact.

Hughes Park homestead is surrounded by a beautifully manicured English garden, and the spacious lawns beside the homestead are an ideal location for a ceremony or marquee. In addition to the formal gardens, the property also has native gums and scenic vineyard views, the ideal setting for you and your guests to enjoy authentic country hospitality. Picture a huge clear marquee, draped with beautiful florals and long rows of recycled timber tables, set against the stunning native backdrop at Hughes Park.

Being a dry hire venue, your choices of hire, food and beverage suppliers are almost limitless, and Hughes Park are only too happy to make recommendations. Have a formal sit-down dinner with all the dressings, or if partying is more on the agenda, opt for a more casual cocktail affair.

There are many locations dotted throughout the Skilly Hills grounds ideal for photos and intimate moments, including large stretches of sheep grazing land, and additional stone buildings with all their rustic charm.

As this venue is located 120km from Adelaide, you will probably be wanting somewhere to stay. Thankfully on-site are the award winning Hughes Park Cottage and Sir Walter’s Cottage, both originating from 1845, and sleeping up to 8 guests in total. Hughes Park is also within minutes of plenty of other Clare Valley accommodation options, and of course wineries, so your guests won’t have to venture far for a cosy night’s sleep and top drop!

The peaceful rural backdrop of Hughes Park provides the perfect setting for the lavish and private country wedding of your dreams.

Read about some of the chic weddings at Hughes Park in our real wedding blog, and featured in Together Journal.