MELBOURNE VICTORIA
If you ever wish to play lawn tennis in the manner reminiscent of the early 1900′s, at least if you live down in Melbourne, Tennishistory.com.au has negotiated an arrangement to hire the lawn tennis court at historic mansion, Rippon Lea which is located in the inner south city of Elsternwick, 20 minutes from the CBD. Mention the website to book.
This grand manor is one of the most lavish private homes built in 1860′s and is now in the safe hands of the National Trust.
Typical of the day, Rippon Lea’s stunning gardens included a lawn tennis court for regular family use and for entertaining guests at garden parties.
Tennis was a popular pastime for the original Sargood family as evidenced by this photo kindly supplied by the Ripponlea House and Garden’s collection.
The grass court is available for hire, so you can organise an olde world tennis event between10:00am -4:30pm as long as the booking doesn’t clash with the many wedding functions conducted in the grand Ballroom overlooking the swimming pool and gardens.
Court hire costs are a very reasonable $40 per hour or $60 for two.
Catering can be provided by a contracted group, or you are welcome to bring your own picnic or afternoon tea.
Equipment is your responsibility as no racquets or balls are available. It is your choice to play with your current racquets or find some old woodies to bring back a day from the past.
The photos below show you the magnitude of the house and wonderful gardens, pool area and tennis court.
The court is now ready and playable and if available the nearby gazebo is ideal for shade, watching the tennis and delightful afternoon teas.
BOOKING QUERIES CAN BE MADE on 03 9523 6095 or email ripponlea@nattrust.com.au
DON’T FORGET TO MENTION the Tennis History Website as being your source of the booking.
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