Search For Hidden Clues and Uncover History at Martindale Hall
Need something to keep the kids, or grandies entertained these winter school holidays?
Martindale Hall has put the call out for young sleuths to test their detective skills, with a fun treasure hunt through one of South Australia’s most fascinating historic homes.
Throughout the July school holidays, children can collect a Junior Detective Card before setting off to search the mansion for eight hidden clues. They’ll need to keep their eyes peeled for special objects, patterns and tiny details tucked away throughout the grand rooms before capturing all the evidence to complete the challenge.
And the best part is, it’s all included with general admission, so there’s no extra cost and no need to book ahead.
A Grand Mansion With Plenty Of Stories To Tell
Built in 1879 by wealthy pastoralist Edmund Bowman, Martindale Hall is one of Australia’s finest Georgian-style country mansions.
The impressive 32-room home was considered incredibly luxurious for its time, complete with gas lighting, indoor plumbing and beautifully furnished rooms that still transport visitors back to the late 1800s.
Film buffs might also recognise Martindale Hall from the iconic 1975 Australian film Picnic at Hanging Rock, where it doubled as the fictional Appleyard College.
Will You Spot Valentine?
Of course, no visit to Martindale Hall would be complete without hearing about its famous ghost stories.
For decades, visitors and staff have shared tales of unexplained footsteps, strange noises and sightings of a young boy named Valentine, who many believe still wanders the hallways.
Whether you’re there to solve the detective trail or simply soak up the history, keep an eye out. You never know what, or who, you might spot around the next corner.
The Junior Detective activity runs throughout the July school holidays and is a fun way for families to explore one of South Australia’s best-preserved historic homes.
JUNIOR DETECTIVE TRAIL AT MARTINDALE HALL
WHERE: Martindale Hall, 1127B Min-Man Road, Mintaro
WHEN: Throughout July school holidays
OPENING HOURS: 10am to 4pm, Wednesday to Monday. Closed Tuesdays.
COST: Included with general admission. No bookings required.
*Children who complete the detective trail can also collect a Children’s University passport stamp.
MORE INFO: martindalehall.com.au
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