The grand home at 3 Wardrop Grove was built in 1929 and sits on Rucker’s Hill, a high point of Northcote that offers views to the Dandenong Ranges to the east.
Sitting on a massive 1841 square metres, the home is being sold by the family of former High Street pharmacist Bill Jackson, who passed away earlier this year.
His daughter Pam says her parents bought the home for £13,000 in the early 1960s.
“It was a wonderful place to grow up,” she says. “There is lots of space in the gardens for footy and cricket, and hide-and-seek games went to the next level, given the size of the gardens.
“One of the highlights of living there was looking out the upstairs window on Guy Fawkes Night in the 1960s and 1970s and seeing colourful fireworks exploding across the Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.”
Earlier in the 20th century, the land was owned by celebrated Melbourne tailor George Wardrop, whose main store was in Elizabeth Street in the city.
Agent Sam Rigopoulos from Jellis Craig Northcote says it is a privilege to offer 3 Wardrop Grove for expressions of interest.
He says the downstairs rooms include a terrazzo foyer, majestic lounge with bow window, a dining room with a balcony, a rumpus room, and a casual kitchen and meals area. Upstairs is a central retreat and four large bedrooms. The sweeping driveway leads to a lock-up garage.
The home sits in a cul-de-sac that leads to Santa Maria College, and is an easy walk to High Street, Northcote station, and All Nations Park.
“It’s close to plenty of great restaurants, cafes, and bars in that popular pocket of Northcote,” Rigopoulos says.
“The property is a remarkable opportunity. It is very comfortable as is, and someone could take their time renovating or developing plans.
“The heritage listing only protects the front of the property and doesn’t preclude an extension at the back. The gardens are beautiful and the large oak tree in the front is exceptional.”
Pam says the stunning oak provided the backdrop to many birthdays, engagements, and anniversaries over the years.
“Over the decades, it has been a home of hospitality and welcome,” she says.
“Mum and Dad hosted many events, including musical soirees with guest artists and garden parties. The home is perfect for large-scale entertaining.”
Pam is keen to see another family enjoy a happy life on the hill.
“It’s been a real blessing to us through the years,” she says. “I’d love to see a new family develop the same connection to the property that we have, and put their own stamp on it.”
3 Wardrop Grove, Northcote VIC 3070
Allison Harding Allison Harding is a freelance Melbourne writer. She was a news and features journalist for 15 years, and now specialises in writing on property, community, health, research and infrastructure.
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