If you’ve heard these names before, that’s no surprise, because they both pay homage to Milton Park’s long history, but this time around they’re stepping out with a whole new look and flavour.
We’re talking pan-European dining, fresh local produce, and a touch of theatre in the kitchen. It’s all led by Executive Chef Mark Holland, who brings serious culinary cred from his time at Nomad, Paddington Inn and some top UK restaurants.
Gawsh, you just know the menus are gonna be divine!
What To Expect From The New Horderns Restaurant
Previously, Hordens was the place for intimate fine-dining; it’s now getting an incredible glow-up.
The restaurant is being relocated to a larger, light-filled setting overlooking the estate’s heritage gardens, with seating expanding from 38 to more than 100 guests. WOAH!
And we’re extra obsessed with one element of the new design, the chef’s pass. Here, diners will actually be able to watch the kitchen team plate up each dish. Sounds so fun.
Mark Holland says his inspiration comes from a lifetime spent around food. “Cooking has always been about connection for me,” he explains. “From growing up in my dad’s restaurant in Yorkshire to now working with the incredible producers of the Southern Highlands, like Snake Creek Beef, Bunny Galore Lamb and Pecora Dairy, I want every dish to feel both comforting and memorable.”
We can expect a menu built around communal dining, where some dishes are finished table-side for a sense of ceremony.
We’re envisioning ‘slow-down’ kinda meals with our nearest and dearest… let those long lunches and decadent dinners come at us.
The space itself, designed by Sydney’s MAC Design Studio, is said to mirror the estate’s new European-inspired aesthetic. There’ll be full-height glass, gorge greenery, jewel-toned seating and warm touches of terracotta and leather.
It all sounds so elegant but also somehow relaxed, a dream combo if you ask us.
What To Expect From The New Polo Bar
While Horderns will bring that fine-dining experience we adore, The Polo Bar plans to keep things a little more chill with charcuterie-style bites, fresh cocktails, and a space to kick back in.
Like the rest of Ardour Milton Park Bowral, the bar will have a refreshed style with calming colours and natural textures.
AND that’s not all!
There’s actually gonna be a whole charcuterie room [is this heaven?], a dedicated space to cured meats and artisan cheeses from local and regional producers. Ain’t no doubt this is a must-visit for local foodies and perf for pre- or post-dinner drinks and nibbles.
The bar itself will offer an ab-fab drinks list, full of Southern Highlands wines alongside fancy spirits, single malts and aged cognacs.
Keen for a red by the fire or a nightcap after dinner? The Polo Bar will make it happen, baby!
The High Tea
Okay, everyone stay calm, nobody panic, Milton Park’s famous High Tea isn’t going anywhere.
And it will still have sweet and savoury treats made with local ingredients… so quintessentially Southern Highlands.
The peeps behind Ardour call the changes a “redefinition of regional luxury.”
The brand’s new collection of immersive retreats will focus on connection, craft and community, and Ardour Milton Park Bowral will be the flagship. How cool is that?
General Manager David McDonald says, “Together, Horderns and The Polo Bar embody Milton Park’s vision for boutique regional hospitality. We want to redefine what luxury means in Australia.”
Did you know Milton Park has been a Southern Highlands fave since it was built in 1910? And now it will continue to be.
With its gardens, grand old rooms and timeless charm, it’s always been a place locals and visitors love to visit. And after this big renovation, it’s beginning a new chapter that combines its history with a fresh, modern style… oooooh, we can’t wait.
When it reopens in early 2026 as Ardour Milton Park Bowral, it’s set to be a venue for Highlanders to hang out and enjoy good food and drinks. A place where every area has been designed to feel welcoming.
We’re so keen for a dinner at Horderns, cocktails at The Polo Bar, and maybe even a cheeky weekend staycay surrounded by the estate’s gardens,
Ardour Milton Park Bowral is shaping up to be a spot that highlights the best of the Highlands, from local produce, beautiful layouts and a stunning atmosphere.
The countdown to 2026 has officially started.