Stafford Bungalow
A lovingly restored planter’s residence set within a working tea estate, Stafford Bungalow offers an intimate glimpse into Sri Lanka’s past, where slow mornings, high tea rituals and sweeping hill country views define the rhythm of your stay.
Highlights
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Set on a working estate, guests can walk the tea trails, meet local pickers and gain an authentic insight into Sri Lanka’s most iconic export.
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With just a small number of rooms, the bungalow offers an exclusive, homely atmosphere, ideal for full buyouts or those seeking seclusion.
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Dating back to 1884, the property retains its original character, from antique interiors to traditional high tea rituals.
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Surrounded by misty plantations and rolling hills, it’s perfectly placed for scenic walks, cycling, and excursions to nearby highlights such as Nuwara Eliya and Horton Plains.
Hidden deep within Sri Lanka’s emerald hill country, Stafford Bungalow sits gracefully amid 50 acres of rolling tea plantations, where mist lingers over the hills and life moves at an unhurried pace. Originally built in 1884 as the private home of Scottish planters, the bungalow has been sensitively restored, blending heritage charm with understated modern comfort.
With just a handful of rooms, this is an experience defined by intimacy and warmth. Interiors echo a bygone era, polished wooden floors, antique furnishings and cosy fireplaces, while wide verandas and manicured gardens invite you to pause and soak in the scenery. Days unfold gently: strolling through tea fields, learning the art of tea tasting, or simply settling into a well-worn armchair with a book from the library.
Dining is a highlight, rooted in tradition and locality. Expect comforting Sri Lankan curries, inspired classics and the ritual of afternoon high tea, freshly baked scones served with views across the estate. With a dedicated team and butler service, every detail feels personal, creating the sense of staying in a private home rather than a hotel.
This is a place to slow down, reconnect and step into the romantic nostalgia of Ceylon’s tea heritage, perfect for couples, families or anyone seeking a quietly immersive escape.
When to visit
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Enjoy the daily high tea out the in manicured gardens overlooking the tea estate.
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Our Top Tours Featuring This Hotel
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View TourBoutique Sri Lanka
A thoughtfully curated journey through Sri Lanka, staying in a handpicked collection of boutique properties that offer intimacy, character and a deep sense of place. From ancient kingdoms and tea-clad hills to untamed wilderness and the southern coast, this itinerary blends immersive experiences with understated luxury and warm, personal hospitality throughout.
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Goatfell
Nestled within a working tea estate in the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country, Goatfell is an intimate four-bedroom bungalow retreat offering peaceful surroundings, personalised service and a wonderful base for exploring the region.
Top Things to Do Nearby
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View ExperienceKandy Temple Trail
Head a little more off the beaten track to explore some of Sri Lanka's more historically and architecturally interesting temples. Gadaladeniya, Embekke and Lankathilaka are set away from the main tourist trail but are still easily accessible from Kandy.
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View ExperienceGuided Tour of Kandy: Gods, Kings & Men
Today head to the centre of Kandy, once known as the Kingdom of Kandy. Take some time to visit the famous UNESCO protected Temple of the Tooth. Next wander around the colourful market followed by some tea at the historic Queen's Hotel.
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View ExperienceThe Pekoe Trail
Embark on the Pekoe Trail, Sri Lanka's first long-distance hike from Hanthana to Nuwara Eliya, guided by a local expert, as you traverse stunning tea plantations, iconic landmarks, and diverse landscapes.
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View ExperienceWalking in Horton Plains
Horton Plains is a beautiful national park in the Southern Hill Country with some wonderful hikes and breath-taking views.
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View ExperienceBiking in the Hills
Grab a helmet and set off on mountain bike trails that wind through Sri Lanka's tea estates, hillside villages, and highland ridgelines.
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View ExperienceKandy by tuk tuk
Travel through Kandy's unique landscape of hills and rivers, exploring its colonial history and religious sites, riding a tuk tuk to scenic hills and markets, and concluding with delicious treats and Ceylon tea with breathtaking city views.
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View ExperienceTrain from Kandy to Hatton
The 2 hour train journey to Hatton is a glorious way to see the rolling countryside from your observation car, as you climb into the hills and tea plantations.
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View ExperienceKandy Market
Visit the colourful market in Kandy for textiles, as well as a lively atmosphere.
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View Experience
Soap-Making Experience
Experience a unique journey in Sri Lanka's Central Province, where a women-led business blends wellness, sustainability and luxury allowing you to explore the art of soap-making, enjoy fresh estate produce, and create lasting memories.
