Pieces of Kiama's colourful past seldom come on the market, but we are thrilled to be offering the iconic 'Fernleigh' in Dido Street to the market for the first time in nearly 75 years.

The original property of five acres, known as the old Chinaman's garden, which refers to the market gardens of Ah Kee and Ah Moo Sing. Ah Kee had gardens in Dido Street and by the Avoca Lagoon; Ah Moo Sing had gardens in Dido Street.

"Fernleigh' was built in the 1850s by George Atkinson, a fruiterer and engineer from Kissing Point. His son, Thomas and wife Kate moved from Cambewarra in 1871 with their two sons and daughter, after which time they had a further six daughters, and Kate ran the home as a boarding house, helped by her daughters.

Local legend also recalls that the home was at one stage used as a stop-over for Cobb and Co Coaches.

In 1945 the property, which now consists of 1.1ha (2.5 acres), and is part of the Spring Creek wetlands, was purchased by surveyor Edwin Johnson and the property has remained in the family ever since.

With the increase in popularity and demand for wedding and event venues on the South Coast, 'Fernleigh' represents the perfect opportunity to create a dreamy events and guesthouse destination (STCA), where many more memories could be created, it's only open to the world of your imagination.

'Fernleigh' is just a two minute drive to the centre of Kiama and a 10 minute walk via the Spring Creek walkway to Bombo Beach.

The home is covered by a local Heritage Order, is currently divided into four sections, the main house consisting of a large formal dining room and loungeroom and 6 bedrooms. The wide verandas are typical of the era, while there are also three two-bedroom units which are currently tenanted.

This home is just waiting for the right owner and to be restored to its former glory.

The home is being offered via private inspections and Expressions of Interest.

For more information phone Terry Digger on 0417 760 669 or David Hall on 0431 270 673.