Peter Rowland Catering

Gardens House

A hidden gem just minutes from the city.

Discover the enchanting Gardens House nestled in the heart of Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens.

Guests can enjoy lunch on the balcony overlooking the gardens, cocktail parties in the dining room or extravagent marquee events at this picture perfect event venue.

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The Venue

Walk through the Botanic Gardens away from the bustle of the city, turn a corner and discover this two-storey mansion of Georgian elegance, hidden behind acres of green.

Built in 1856, and maintained in immaculate condition, the original fittings - the elegant chandeliers, the period furniture, the timber stairway - add a sense of grace to any event.

Private dinners in the first floor boardroom, drinks on the upper verandah overlooking the rear garden, the peaceful Garden Room or cocktails on the lawn - with or without the custom-built marquee - however you choose to entertain, Gardens House is a breath of fresh air.

Private and exclusive, it suprises and delights every guest.

Room Capacities

Upstairs Dining Room

Total area - 49 (m2) Capacity (pax)
Boardroom 32
U-Shape 28
Theatre 40
Cocktail 60
Banquet 48
Banquet w/ Dance Floor -
Cabaret 30

Garden Room & Study

Total area - 65 (m2) Capacity (pax)
Boardroom -
U-Shape 15
Theatre 30
Cocktail 60
Banquet 40
Banquet w/ Dance Floor -
Cabaret 30

Whole House

Total area - 192 (m2) Capacity (pax)
Boardroom 32
U-Shape 43
Theatre 70
Cocktail 120
Banquet -
Banquet w/ Dance Floor -
Cabaret 60

Marquee (on request)

Total area - 200 (m2) Capacity (pax)
Boardroom 60
U-Shape -
Theatre 150
Cocktail 220
Banquet 160
Banquet w/ Dance Floor 150
Cabaret 100

Contact Us

Speak directly to one of our sales team to arrange a site inspection or to find out more information on holding your next event at Gardens House.

Speak to our Sales Team

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Location

Gardens House

Dallas Brooks Drive,
South Yarra VIC 3141

Did You Know?

  • The picturesque Royal Botanic Gardens extends over 36 hectares and displays more than 50,000 plants.
  • In 2008-2009, over 1.6 million people visited the Royal Botanic Gardens making it one of Melbourne's most popular tourist attractions. 
  • The Royal Botanic Gardens enjoys the support of the 'Melbourne Friends' a group of over 2,300 volunteers. This group has been operating for 28 years.
  • 'The Tan' is a 3.8km running track which surrounds the perimeter of the Royal Botanic Gardens.
  • Peter Rowland Catering has been the exclusive caterer of Gardens House for over 15 years.

 

Questions & Answers

Will we have exclusive use of the gardens and the House?

Yes, you have exclusive us of the House and the surrounding gardens for the duration of your function. We have security on the gate to ensure your privacy.

Do you hold wedding ceremonies only at the venue?

Yes, from 1 March until 31 October. Please speak to one of our Event Planners for further information.

How many people can fit on the balcony during a lunch?

We can accommodate up to 20 people on the balcony which overlooks the rear lawn.

Is there dancing allowed in the house?

No, unfortunately not in the house however your guests are allowed to dance on the balcony or outside.

Is the pathway to Gardens House lit during the evening?

Yes, there is permanent lighting on the pathway leading toward the House.

Is there lighting in the gardens of the House during the evening?

No, there is not lighting installed in the gardens. Please speak to one of our Event Planners to request a quote from our preferred supplier.

Can we decorate the trees or garden beds around the House?

No, the Royal Botanic Gardens has restrictions due to its diverse plant collections and landscape features that need to be retained in their original.

Is there wet weather options?

Yes, if you are having a function on the lawns you can move into the House if it begins to rain.

Can you help us with recommended suppliers?

Yes, please speak to one of our Event Planners to request our list of preferred wedding or corporate suppliers.

Consider one of our Exclusive Venues