Images: Instagram via @saltash_farm / Kirsten Cunningham
Sunrise presenter Edwina Bartholomew and her husband, writer Neil Varcoe, are no strangers to ambitious renovations. But their latest project – the restoration of a grand old guesthouse in the postcard-perfect NSW country town of Carcoar – might just be their most inspiring yet.
Once known as Stoke House, the 19th-century building is being transformed into Saltash Farm, a luxury boutique hotel nestled in the heart of the Central West. With work officially kicking off this month, the pair – parents to young children Molly and Tom – are rolling up their sleeves once again to turn dreams into beautifully designed reality.
“In terms of restoration of the front, it will look very similar with new hardwood decking on the verandah, fresh paint and ivy climbing up the garage to soften it.”
Edwina Bartholomew & Neil Varcoe
The journey to this point has been anything but simple. After purchasing the property in the first half of 2023, Edwina and Neil spent 18 months navigating the often-tangled process of securing development approval – a milestone finally achieved in September 2024.
Along the way, Edwina bravely shared her personal health battle with cancer, a challenge that has strengthened their shared resolve. “Edwina’s recent health news has only made us more determined to build our hotel into a unique and beautiful regional destination,” they wrote on social media.
Seasoned renovators, the couple have an impressive track record. They infused rustic charm at Warramba, a 100-acre retreat in the Greater Blue Mountains, and previously revived a charming 1880s terrace in Dulwich Hill with the help of interior design studio Studio Esteta – a project that sold for $2.58 million in 2023. With each property, they’ve blended thoughtful design with timeless character.
Now, all eyes are on Saltash Farm, where the vision is clear and the collaborators carefully chosen. Once again, they’ve partnered with Studio Esteta for interiors, while Billy Maynard Architects and heritage renovation experts Howarth Built will lead the architectural and construction work. Edwina and Neil have shared renders that reveal their vision for the place, set to open in 2026.
The restoration promises to remain true to the building’s rich past – think skirting and architraves historically accurate to the Victorian era, fresh paint in keeping with a traditional heritage palette, new hardwood decking and ivy-covered facade – while introducing elegant modern flourishes throughout.
The property is being reimagined as a boutique stay and destination for celebrations. The landscape, crafted by ED Landscapes, will include everything from a custom-designed fire pit by Studio UC to a bar for weddings and special events, all carefully placed to make the most of the breathtaking surroundings.
Alex Prichard, head chef at Icebergs Dining Room & Bar, joins as a consultant for the project. “Work is underway and the kitchen equipment is on order,” the couple said. “Saltash Farm can add to the already thriving food scene in the Central West.”
With interiors stripped back and preparations underway, the transformation of Saltash Farm officially begins in April 2025. When complete, brass letters displaying its name will greet guests at the entrance, framed by lush gardens. The hotel’s branding, designed by Emmanate Creative, is inspired by the handwritten font on the 1855 title deed.
With a strong team behind them, a clear vision and a deep respect for history, this restoration is poised to deliver something truly extraordinary – a new gem in the storied town of Carcoar, and yet another chapter in Edwina and Neil’s design journey that we can’t wait to follow.
