Ratho

History

Ratho Farm was established in 1822 by Alexander Reid and his family near the Clyde River in Bothwell, west of Hobart. The family built a farmstead and dedicated themselves to farming as well as the breeding of wool and other agricultural activities. The early gardens and buildings were expanded during the 1820s, and the Reid family were involved in the development of the area's agriculture and the early connections to golf, which makes Ratho Farm one of the area's roots in the sport. In 1837 the property was advertised for sale, but was leased in the meantime; the Reids returned in 1842. The second Alexander Reid continued to operate the farm, expanded irrigation systems and bred breeding stock, while establishing social golf events in the area and bringing friends and golfing masters to the site. In 1935 Ratho Farm was sold at auction to Alexander Stenhouse, and in the following years the Logan addition was added in 1946. After Stenhouse's death in 1948 the property passed through the hands of the family and was entrusted to the daughters, before it was leased to the parents Richard and Mary Ramsay in 1982. Following the purchase of adjacent plots, Grantham was incorporated in 1987, and today Ratho Farm is run as a commercial enterprise comprising Ratho, Logan, Grantham and parts of Nant under the Ramsay family.

Production/Manufacturing

They do not disclose any whisky production on site at Ratho Farm. Nant Distillery is located on a nearby farm and is offered as part of experience packages: tours of Nant Distillery and Nant Mill, and whisky tastings. The TOUR & TASTING PACKAGE features Nant Whisky Flight (3 tastings) and the HISTORICAL PACKAGE features a guided tour and Nant Mill, starting at 11:00 and 13:30. Nant Distillery is described as internationally recognized and closely connected to Ratho Farm as a neighbor.

Products/Whisky Series

Nant Distillery is named as the surrounding whisky producer, and guests can participate in:

• TOUR & TASTING PACKAGE: Guided tour of Nant Distillery and Nant Mill, plus Nant Whisky Flight (3 tastings).

• HISTORICAL PACKAGE: Guided tour of Nant Distillery and Nant Mill.
  These offers suggest a connection to whisky experiences in the area, rather than Ratho Farm producing whisky itself.

Visits/Experiences

Ratho Farm is described as Australia’s oldest golf course, and its history is linked to the early Scottish settlers who brought golf to the colony. The course is unique for sheep-grazed surrounds and fences that keep sheep off the greens. The Ratho Golf Links is described as a time capsule preserving the old margins and greens, which are square in the style of early golf in Scotland. Also noted:

• Playing conditions: the course operates without automated irrigation, providing seasonal and changing challenges.

• Times and facilities: tee times — 9 holes about 2.5 hours and 18 holes about 5 hours; golf equipment rental, pull buggies and clubs available for hire.

• Accommodation and facilities: 16 unique rooms in refurbished prison buildings; a conference and events center for events and weddings; world-class trout fishing in the Clyde River Valley; guided tours by Greg Ramsay, who restores the buildings and preserves the historic atmosphere.

• Location: Close to Bothwell, about an hour’s drive from Hobart, serving as an entry to the Clyde River Valley and surrounds.

Philosophy

Ratho Farm emphasizes its role as a place where heritage and tradition meet contemporary luxury. Greg Ramsay is focused on restoring the old prison buildings into ultra-luxury accommodations while preserving the history and charm. The property is described as more than a golf course—it is an experience shaped by history, natural beauty, and activities such as ultra-luxury lodging, golf and fishing in a historic setting.