Prospect Country House is proudly owned by John and Libby Pooley, who purchased the property in 2017. They set upon the lengthy process of renovating the property to bring it back to its former glory, and in the process breathed new life into the historic estate incorporating modern touches while staying true to the original characters of the buildings. John and Libby Pooley also own Pooley Wines, a well-established winery located across the road from Prospect Country House. John and Libby’s passion for Tasmania’s Tourism and their persistence for perfection make them the perfect caretakers of Prospect House. You’ll notice them in all the small details at Prospect, from artwork to carefully curated antiques, their love for the property shines through.
History of Prospect House
Prospect House was originally commissioned in 1830 by James Buscombe, an immigrant from Britain. He arrived in Van Diemen’s Land (as Tasmania was then known) in 1822 and quickly made his mark as a significant architectural contributor to the burgeoning colony. Richmond was once a very important police district between Port Arthur and Hobart, making it a very advantageous settlement. Since the Buscombes, Prospect House has passed through the hands of diverse custodians - from agriculturalists and retired army colonels to horse racers, restaurateurs, and hoteliers.
Now, the house retains many original features, from wide floorboards crafted from local Tasmanian timber to ornate fireplaces and high, decorative ceilings. These historical elements blend seamlessly with modern comforts, creating an authentic yet luxurious living space.
Today, Prospect House offers more than a stay - it provides a journey through time. From the legacy of James Buscombe to the influence of its diverse past residents and the Pooley family's loving restoration, Prospect House stands as a living tribute to Tasmania's rich history and architectural heritage.
Off Season Winter Escape to South East Tasmania
The article spotlights Sami Lukis’s recent Off Season famil to Hobart, including the city in a broader piece on Australian winter escapes. She shares her top picks for embracing winter in Tasmania, including a visit to Mona, relaxing at Kuuma, and wine tasting at Tolpuddle Vineyard. Overall, she highlights how leaning into the cold made the experience more memorable, and rejuvenating.
Regions - West, North West, East Coast, South
Mona
Salamanca Markets
Kuuma
Sullivans Cove
Tolpuddle Vineyard
Sirocco South
Prospect Country House
MEDIA
Australian Country Style Magazine
In 2025 Prospect Country House and Buscombe’s Restaurant were featured in Australian Country Style Magazine which captured Prospect as the essence of a modern Australian country escape in South East Tasmania. The article covers the heritage charm and thoughful contemporary design of the property, eluding to relaxed days unfolding at an unhurried pace shaped by good food, generous hospitality, and a deep connection to place.
At the heart of the elegant country experience is Buscombe’s Restaurant, where seasonal, farm-to-table fine dining celebrates local producers and the surrounding landscape, inviting guests to slow down, settle in, and savor the simple pleasure of being well looked after. Please see the link to the PDF’s on the link below.
