About this space

Tucked away in the heart of Ryde, just 20 minutes from Sydney’s CBD, Bensonville Cottage is a rare offering: a heritage-listed country escape wrapped in lush gardens—right in the city. Built in 1887 and lovingly restored, this private, shoot-friendly property combines nostalgic charm with modern comfort and a garden that feels straight out of the Southern Highlands.

As you approach via the long, leafy driveway, the mood shifts instantly. Surrounded by high hedges, ornamental pear trees, and dappled light, the expansive lawn and fairy light-strung garden set the tone for slow-living, romance, or family storytelling. Whether you’re staging a long lunch, a garden party scene, or an alfresco editorial, the setting offers scale, calm, and atmosphere in every direction.

A wraparound verandah encircles the cottage—leafy, private, and wide enough to host full dining setups, styled shoots, or even movement-based content like children playing or lifestyle sequences. This space effortlessly transitions between open and covered zones, giving you flexibility in any weather.

Out back, the shoot possibilities continue: a wood-fired pizza oven, plunge pool, decking with BBQ, and a cubby house all add layers to your visual storytelling—whether you’re capturing summer family content, food and entertaining moments, or brand lifestyle imagery. The layout is ideal for filming or editorial work that moves across multiple garden zones, from golden-hour portraits to vibrant flat-lays on the lawn.

Inside, a bold red front door opens to a long hallway that draws you through to the rear of the house, where two bright living rooms and an open-plan modern kitchen provide crisp, camera-ready backdrops. With select indoor spaces available, the home offers a complete indoor-outdoor shoot package—all anchored in history and natural light.

With parking for up to seven vehicles onsite, Bensonville Cottage is also a smart, production-friendly choice for crews looking to shoot within Sydney without sacrificing aesthetic or access.

Whether you’re producing film, editorial, lifestyle content, or a brand campaign with a soft, timeless tone, Bensonville Cottage delivers heritage character, cinematic garden zones, and the rare ability to feel like a country escape—without ever leaving the city.