Wonnerup House

Wonnerup House sits on Wadandi Country, less than 10 kilometres north of Busselton, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the South West. The property’s name, Wonnerup, was adopted by George Layman in 1832 when he took a land grant of 500 acres at this location.

Nestled between the majestic Ludlow Tuart Forest and the spectacular Vasse-Wonnerup wetlands, this peaceful setting belies a 140-year history of perseverance and hardship, as well as mistrust and tragedy, following the colonisation of the greater Busselton area in the 1830s.

It is also a powerful reminder of the isolation, danger and struggles faced by the Layman family and others like them in the early days of the colony.

After an extensive conservation project to re-roof the property, we’re very pleased to have Wonnerup House open to the public once again. As you turn into the driveway of Wonnerup House you will see things have changed. Updated signage is the first indication of a new approach to storytelling at this important place.

Working with Traditional Custodians and members of the Layman family, the National Trust has installed a simple but provocative presentation to encourage visitors to question their knowledge of the past and to consider how we understand truth.

The current presentation is temporary and the National Trust is seeking funding to undertake more a permanent installation. The objects and furniture that were displayed in the house will remain in storage as we explore ways to present a more layered and comprehensive interpretation of this important site over the next few years.

This work will be supported by consultation with local Aboriginal cultural custodians, descendants of colonial families and the local community, as well as archival research.

Visitors are welcome to explore the house while this work is underway, and may gain insights on the National Trust’s approach to interpretation, storytelling and appreciation of the broader cultural landscape.

See, Do, Explore

Book your visit to Wonnerup House and please take note of the closure periods scheduled throughout the year below while planning your visit.

Why not also pop across Layman Road to visit the Ramsar-listed Vasse-Wonnerup wetlands? You won’t be disappointed, particularly if you’re a bird enthusiast.

This site of state, national and international significance is home to one of the world’s largest populations of migratory waterbird species. Visit the Malbup Bird Hide, explore the trails and boardwalks through the beautiful wetland vegetation and walk the Possum Spotlighting Trail.

Or you can take the beautiful Tuart Tourist Drive through the Tuart Forest National Park, especially if you are on your way to Busselton and want to beat some of the traffic on the main highway. This drive loops through some of the last remnants of this magnificent ancient forest. Some of the largest remaining Tuart trees are 300–400 years old and stand on average 33 metres high with a girth of a massive 10 metres.

And a visit to Busselton isn’t complete without visiting the iconic Busselton Jetty and getting up close and personal with our amazing marine life on a tour of the underwater observatory!

Drive your story

The National Trust is excited to be a part of a new initiative from the Margaret River and Busselton Tourism Association. Five new self-guided drive trails will help you see more of what matters – in your own time.

Plan ahead then feel free to get a little sidetracked while finding new favourites, slowing down with a swim, or stopping into a hidden gem.

Linger a little longer to bask in the glow of sunset then bring home a story that’s all your own.

Wonnerup House at Wonnerup is part of the Busselton Bay and Bounty Trail.

Stripped back and relaxed, classic family memories are made here. Family holiday legacies are made here. The classic elements remain unchanged: the crystalline, protected waters of Geographe Bay. The foreshore lined with the iconic Norfolk Pines. The historic Busselton Jetty, cherished by generations of locals and visitors who have walked along it, jumped off it, snorkelled, dived, fished from it.

The nostalgia here is palpable, harking back to a simpler time – one of free time. Naturally, the bay is front and centre on this trail but scratch a bit deeper into the bountiful hinterland and you’ll find more experiences that hold onto Busselton’s essence and give back even more.

The calm of the coastline is paralleled by the adventures found inland, not to mention the quality beer being crafted locally. Expect genuine grassroots cellar doors, one of West Australia’s top produce and artisan markets, surprising adventures and unforgettable family holiday memories.

Find detailed maps and guides online at Driveyourstory.com

Book tickets online

Group bookings & Education enquiries

 

Plan your Visit

Wonnerup House

Address:

935 Layman Road
Busselton 6280 WA

Open:

From September 2023 onwards the house and grounds are open Friday and Saturday between 10.00 am and 4.00 pm. Your ticket is valid at any time during opening hours.
Sundays, open from 10:00 - 11:00am for bookings only.

Closed:

Closed Good Friday.
Please note, Wonnerup will close if the Bureau of Meteorology forecast for Busselton is for 38 degrees or above. You will be able to use your tickets on another day or request a refund.

Phone:
(08) 9752 2039
Website:
https://bit.ly/wonnerup
Entry Fees:

National Trust Members - FREE
Adults - $10.00
Concession - $7.00
Children (5yrs and over) - $5.00
Children (under 5 yrs) - FREE
Family group of four (children 5-17 years) - $25.00
Companion card holders - FREE
Group bookings (10 or more people) - from $7.00 per person
(Schools by appointment)

What we offer:

Please note: If you buy a member or concession ticket, you must show your proof of concession or membership card upon arrival.

Family tickets are for two adults and two children aged 5 to 17.

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Wonnerup House

Plan your visit

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