Note: This review reflects our stay at The Britten Stables in 2020. It was sold at the end of 2021 and is no longer available to book, but I’ve kept this post live as a record of the experience and the space itself.
When I was looking for accommodation in Christchurch for a special stay, I came across this spectacular place. I must admit, even though I had heard of John Britten, the famed motorcycle creator, and seen one of his bikes at Te Papa in Wellington, I hadn’t realised he also designed a beautiful home for his family. A home that was also now open to guests.
I was excited to find out shortly after booking that it had been featured on Grand Designs NZ a few years ago, as it needed restoring after the devastating Christchurch 2011 earthquakes. John’s daughter Isabelle and husband Tim live on the grounds with their children and care for the property and guests.
A Little History
John Britten is known for his groundbreaking motorcycles, machines that challenged convention and redefined what was thought possible. That same spirit of innovation and care is evident throughout the Britten family home and stables, where design choices feel deliberate, personal, and deeply considered.
Following the devastating Christchurch earthquakes in 2011, the stables suffered significant damage and required extensive restoration. The rebuild, later featured on Grand Designs New Zealand, focused on preserving the original vision while strengthening and adapting the structure for the future.
The stables themselves include three guest bedrooms, each with its own ensuite. The design manages to feel both timeless and personal, with no sense of anything being overdone or staged. Knowing the stables remained part of a living family home gave the space a warmth that’s often missing from high-end accommodation. You felt like a guest, not a customer.
I was almost a little starstruck by the beauty of the décor. Jono and I stayed here during a significant moment in our lives, and the calm, considered atmosphere felt especially grounding. We explored most parts of the property open to guests, aware that some areas were private to the family.
The Library Suite
We stayed in the Library Suite, and it exceeded expectations. The room has an almost loft-like feel, with the bedroom below and a mezzanine level above housing a library and lounge area.
After checking in, we headed out to run a few errands, then returned with platter food and wine. We spent the afternoon upstairs in the library, reading, talking, and unwinding. It felt genuinely homely, which isn’t something I say lightly when it comes to accommodation.
The light, textures, and layout all encouraged you to slow down. Nothing felt precious, but everything felt intentional.
Other Facilities
One of the highlights of staying at The Britten Stables was the conservatory, which ties the property together. It houses a stunning indoor pool surrounded by ferns and foliage, with a sculptural spiral staircase that draws your eye immediately.
We swam in the pool, lingered in the shared spaces, and spent time just enjoying the designs. Having watched Grand Designs, it was quietly special to experience the space first-hand.
The property also features a spa pool, tennis court, and gardens to the rear. Despite its scale, it never felt grand or intimidating. It felt lived in, calm, and thoughtfully cared for.
Location
The Britten Stables is set in a quiet, leafy part of Christchurch, yet close enough to the city. It’s an easy base for exploring on foot, particularly if you enjoy wandering rather than hopping between destinations.
Hagley Park is nearby and perfect for morning walks or an easy reset between outings. There are also several excellent cafés within walking distance, along with galleries and central attractions that make it simple to fill a day without needing a car.
Update Jul 2022: The Britten Stables sold to a family at the end of 2021 and unfortunately for us is no longer available to book. Congratulations to the new owners – you have a truly beautiful home!
This is where I would book next time visiting Christchurch for a similar feel.
Lore & Tempo is where motherhood meets adventure. I’m Ren – storyteller, explorer, and single mum in Wellington, New Zealand. I’ve been lucky enough to wander through 45 countries. 15 of them with my +1, Kaydes, either strapped to my front, on my hip, or running ahead on her own adventures. I created this space to share single parent life, travel tips, and the joy of exploring the world.
