Entire home

The Kendall Rectory - an historic sanctuary and a gateway to the mid north coast

Riverside holiday home with kitchen and patio

Photo gallery for The Kendall Rectory - an historic sanctuary and a gateway to the mid north coast

Exterior
Exterior
Exterior
Property grounds
Living area

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 9150 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Free WiFi
  • Kitchen
  • Barbecue grill

Explore the area

View map
  • Place, North Haven Beach
  • Place, Bago Vineyards & Maze
  • Place, Pilot Beach
  • Airport, Port Macquarie, NSW (PQQ)

Rooms & beds

4 bedrooms (sleeps 9)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Single Beds and 1 Child Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Double Bed and 1 Single Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden
Dining area

About this property

The Kendall Rectory - an historic sanctuary and a gateway to the mid north coast

Step back in time and feel the colonial spirit of the mid-north coast of New South Wales, Australia when you stay at the Kendall Rectory. Centrally located in the the picturesque village of Kendall, the Poet’s Village, you will find yourself between majestic forests, pristine beaches, national parks, and the cultural centre of Port Macquarie. The Rectory sits high on the hill, secluded amidst magnificent mature gardens. This charming grand old home, built at the turn of the 20th Century, is surrounded by over 3,000 square metres of park-like gardens with a stunning array of native and European landscaping including a 100 year old fig. Relax on the wide verandahs, enjoy the district views and listen to and admire the wonderful bird life.

Light and open, this home features 12 ft ceilings, expansive windows and original restored polished mahogany floorboards throughout. Other historical features include an open fireplace, hand-milled hardwood ceilings and walls and hand-crafted cathedral doors, reflecting the home’s past as a former Rectory. This is a property with ample space to entertain with the style and elegance of a bygone era. Generous bedrooms feature large windows capturing the view to the mountains and double French doors leading onto the verandahs which overlook the established gardens. Tranquility and privacy – the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway.

Within 10 minutes of beaches, and national parks and 15 minutes to Port Macquarie this is the perfect base to explore the areas natural majesty, fine food and wineries or to simply enjoy the company of friends and family. The home is well equipped for entertaining.

There is a separate studio space suitable for those interested in a yoga retreat, art retreat or for a sleep out in addition to the house. Please enquire if interested to discuss rates. Please enquire well in advance to use these additional facilities.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available
Mountain view

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
Property Registration Number PID-STRA-11345, 2439

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Kendall

Located in Kendall, this holiday home is in the mountains and on a river. Dooragan National Park and Crowdy Bay National Park reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include Cod Grounds Marine Park and Bago Vineyards & Maze. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Kendall, NSW

What's nearby

  • North Haven Beach - 18 min drive - 17.6 km
  • Bago Vineyards & Maze - 22 min drive - 21.8 km
  • Pilot Beach - 26 min drive - 17.3 km
  • Rainbow Beach - 26 min drive - 31.0 km
  • Flynns Beach - 37 min drive - 44.4 km

Getting around

  • Kendall Station - 13 min walk
  • Port Macquarie, NSW (PQQ) - 29 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪The Upside Brew - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Laurieton Hotel - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Laurieton United Services Club - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Kew Corner Store - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Royal Hotel- Kew - ‬4 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is The Kendall Rectory - an historic sanctuary and a gateway to the mid north coast pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at The Kendall Rectory - an historic sanctuary and a gateway to the mid north coast?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The Kendall Rectory - an historic sanctuary and a gateway to the mid north coast?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The Kendall Rectory - an historic sanctuary and a gateway to the mid north coast located?

Situated by the sea, this holiday home is within 6 miles (10 km) of Dooragan National Park, Crowdy Bay National Park and Middle Brother National Park. Bago Bluff National Park and Bruce Porter Reserve are also within 9 miles (15 km). Kendall Station is 13 minutes by foot.

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 99 out of 121 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 17 out of 121 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 121 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 121 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 121 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Julie K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
If you love old style charm this is the place to stay. Lovely house and gardens. Nice quiet area. Lots of birds to watch and listen to. We have no complaints and found it a lovely relaxing home to stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sue S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house was a relaxing, quiet environment. Plenty of space inside and out. The kitchen provided extensive equipment and more than adequate supplies. Plenty of places to explore
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Candice C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely magical stay. Beautiful old house and great gardens for the kids to explore. We will be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Eleanor A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful House

The Kendall Rectory is a special spot. The house is beautiful, the gardens are spectacular, and the verandah is a cosy spot to sit in the sun and relax, even in the winter. The new cooker is fabulous and the coffee machine makes fantastic coffee. My second stay and it won't be my last.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Peter T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Boys get together

Well appointed, beautiful surroundings, quiet, great decks, have stayed before and will again.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Catherine B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

We had a very relaxing winter week at the Rectoy. Everything was there that we needed and it’s a lovely home. Recommend for any family wanting to spend some time in a beautiful area away from the rat race.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful house

The Rectory is a gorgeous house set up with comfy beds and everything you might need. A wonderful base for our summer holiday.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Kirrily D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best holiday ever!

The accommodation was historically beautiful and tastefully decorated but modern in appliances. Beautifully located with gorgeous grounds, The Rectory was a place of peace. Multiple bedrooms and gorgeous outdoor spaces made it perfect for us and our adult family and partners to holiday together. The location is within driving distance to walks, waterfalls, river and beach activities as well as dining and shopping.
Stayed 10 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Anna J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gorgeous

Beautiful home, stylish furnishings, well-equipped kitchen and a sunny verandah made for a relaxing stay in the country
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Nerida P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location to explore the region

Very comfortable place to stay with lots of special touches and plenty of basic supplies for our week long stay. Sue, owner, was very quick to respond to communication through booking process. It is an older house, but well set up for groups and families. A short drive to beaches, bushwalks and the amazing North Brother lookout.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Robert C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A slice of paradise

A wonderful place to stop just off the highway. Plenty of room and lovely gardens. Perfect place to waste an afternoon on the verandah with a glass of wine and a good book.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

colin g.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing and peaceful with a beautiful garden plenty of room

From the start it was very easy to organise and communicate with the owner
Stayed 11 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

Helen M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

2nd stay at Kendall Rectory

Really loved coming back to this property for the second time. Even in the rain, the balcony is still a restful peaceful place to sit and enjoy the garden outlook. Thanks again for having us.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Helen M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Two night stay

Lovely place to stay and base ourselves for the Jack Newton Junior Golf North Coast masters at Kew. While the kids played we relaxed in Susan’s charming property. The birds joined us too. Sequence is a new favourite game.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Peta-anne S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Girls Golf Trip

This was our second stay - and i have to say, once again it didn’t disappoint. The house, the location, the set up and inclusions - everything really is spot on. The house is really clean, beds are really comfy, kitchen has everything you would possibly need to cook a meal at home - have absolutely no complaints. Susan is a fantastic host, her communication is very prompt and nothing seems to be a bother for her. I would definitely recommend her place to stay - and in fact we are already booked in to come back for a third time. Thanks Susan. seems to be a bother for her.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Annette H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family get together

We spent a lovely 3 nights in the rectory. It was perfect for our family to get together as adult siblings. The kitchen was well equipped with much more than just staples which was great. We caught up with family in Taree & had a lovely time at Bago winery both not far from Kendall . The lovely combustion fire, coffee machine & laundry all appreciated. We ran out of toilet paper but were happy to buy more as we got far more than we bargained for of other supplies in the house. Susan was great to deal with & always responded quickly to queries
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

8/10 Good

Susan T.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location
Disliked: Cleanliness

Vacuum

Very pleasant but the cleaner is obviously not doing his, her job" there was also broken furniture which I'm not sure if the owner knows about, dinning table leg in the lounge room held up by two broken tiles. Plant stand in the hallway was leaning against the wall with a broken leg. And the Vacuum did not work. The house and the grounds was magnificent, it's just a shame its not maintained properly. All things aside we did have a pleasant stay.
Stayed 10 nights in Mar 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michelle T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a lovely stay at the property.We chose to stay in Kendall because we were attending a wedding on a nearby property.The house is very well equipped with everything you need, very comfortable & homely.Susan was fantastic with dealing with any questions we had & was very pleasant every time.I highly recommend staying at this property!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Belinda S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely home on lovely grounds. Perfect to meet up with friends. Loved and needed the combustion heater
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Peta S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A beautiful home with character and charm in a charming location. Everything about our stay was absolutely awesome. We played the local golf courses and enjoyed our meals at the nearby clubs and cafes.Our host (Sue) was amazing and really made sure had everything we needed.We couldn't fault the experience.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ingrid V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Delightful Gem!

Wow! Our family had a long weekend at the Kendall Rectory and wished it could have been longer. The house was a historical beauty, absolutely full of old world charm and just so gorgeous! It was very comfortable with plenty of space, peace and quiet. Every room was perfect and each bedroom had a stunning view to wake up too! The gardens and views were simply amazing, with a comfortable verandah to sit back and enjoy the serenity. We can't thank Sue enough, she was the perfect host! We had everything we needed and more. The little town of Kendall is so quaint, with wonderful cafes, an old book store and not far from beaches and restaurants too. Such a wonderful discovery, a delightful Gem!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alison M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Historic peace

The property was beautiful - lovely old building, beautiful verandahs and spacious and inviting garden. As we were working in the locality, there also was plenty of space for us to work in the evening. Unfortunately, the work also meant we didn't have as much time to enjoy the ambience of the property, or pleasant breakfast/coffee on the verandahs.The kitchen also was very well set up - everything you could want.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Eric J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A perfect, cosy getaway!

The property was absolutely delightful. My wife and I stayed there with both sons, their lovely wives and our 3 gorgeous grandchildren. It was a superb layout that provided our own spaces as well as places to share time together. The host has done a brilliant job in creating something very special! A truly wonderful time had by all!!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Ashley N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Stay

Our stay was beautiful, the house was the perfect size for us all, the kitchen and dining room accommodated us all for sit down dinners. just a beautiful atmosphere to be in. It was raining unfortunately so we did not get much time outdoors, but the outdoor areas were large and child appropriate.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Karen L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Time

Relaxing peaceful and comfortable, the property was well equipped and we loved the gardens and veranda
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

About the host

Hosted by Susan Sherringham

Host profile image

Why they chose this property

We had been searching for a holiday house for five years when we stumbled across the Kendall Rectory and it was love at first site. It just felt right. We wanted to enjoy this grand old lady and we feel very privileged to be the current custodians of this place and share her with other travellers.

What makes this property unique

There is something incredibly peaceful and relaxing about the Kendall Rectory. You cant help but relax and switch off. The garden setting is serene and the house is great for couples, groups or families.

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests