Steeple Country Escapes, Limbri, NSW

Rhiannon Graham first laid eyes on the Limbri Church in a real estate office window. Today, she has breathed new life into the unique accommodation that, under its new name of Steeple Country Escapes, provides a luxurious country retreat just a hop, skip and a jump from major regional centres. 

Photography: Georgina Gavel
@creativebygeorge

Getting there

Rev your engines for this one folks – except don’t, please follow road rules and drive safely. But whatever direction you’re coming from, you’re best placed driving to Steeple Country Escapes. Found in Limbri, a quaint village in regional NSW, this unique accommodation is just a 25-minute drive from Tamworth, an hour from Walcha, a little over an hour from Armidale, three and a half hours from Bellingen and four hours from Coffs. The journey is a good one, with sealed roads taking you through rolling hillsides and along the beautiful Cockburn River. So get a playlist prepped and hit the road (once again, safely). 

The story

Owner Rhiannon Graham first laid eyes on the building in a real estate office window. What started as a novel discussion about how cool it would be to own a church quickly turned to a casual inspection and ultimately led to Rhiannon purchasing the Limbri Church in June 2022. These days, people far and wide are invited to experience the novelty of staying in the converted church that was originally built in 1906. Now reborn as a luxury country retreat, the space feels intimate and homely, offering the perfect place to relax, think, be creative, take time for yourself and leave with a smile. 

The stay

Steeple Country Escapes sleeps six lucky souls across three bedrooms (two queen beds and one double) – perfect for group catch-ups or family adventures (including the dog since it’s pet-friendly!). The building boasts beautiful high ceilings, original floorboards and stained glass windows – heritage features that Rhiannon has worked wonders to highlight alongside luxuries like plush linens, built-in wardrobes, soft mattresses (with mattress toppers to boot!), a clawfoot bath, modern amenities, and a four-burner barbecue on the back deck. Suited to all seasons, Steeple invites you to sit out on the deck in the warmer months and watch the birds, fish and swim in the Cockburn River. In the cooler months, sit by the wood fire heater, or kick back under the country stars around the cosy fire pit.

The interesting bits

While there is mobile reception and free Wi-Fi, we recommend Steeple Country Escapes as the perfect place to switch off from the world. Driving to the church can feel like you’re heading way off the beaten track – soak up that feeling – then be greeted by the breathtakingly beautiful, heritage church facade. Enjoy a wine on arrival, sit around the fire and stare up at the stars. When morning comes, Steeple’s own hens will soon arrive to take up their role supplying fresh eggs for breakfast. Feel like exploring further afield? How about by horseback? Tamworth and Kootingal Horse Riding Adventures is around the corner, ready and raring to host you on a horse trail ride.

Fast facts

Who?

Rhiannon Graham – a woman with a love for the rural lifestyle and a passion for hosting.

What?

Steeple Country Escapes – a 1906 church converted into a luxury retreat.

When?

Book online at: steeplecountryescapes.com
@steeple__

Where?

Limbri, NSW