The main building started life as a Convent designed by Thomas Turnbull and built in 1901 for the Sisters of Mercy. It originally was located next to Saint Mary's Church in the nearby town of Blenheim and provided accommodation for 19 nuns, a library, music room, sewing room, office and a beautiful chapel on the first floor.

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Native timbers were extensively used in the construction including Matai, Rimu and Kauri. One of the many splendid examples of Victorian craftsmanship is the substantial carved staircase, constructed entirely from Kauri.

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In 1994, the Convent was sold and moved in five pieces to its present location at 776 Rapaura, Marlborough. The task of restoration then began under the guidance of architect Sir Michael Fowler.

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The property operated as Old St Mary’s Convent B&B until May 2016 when it was sold to its current owners who undertook an extensive refurbishment before reopening early 2017 as The Marlborough, Boutique Hotel & Vineyard, offering 10 luxury rooms all with ensuites.  

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Along side the Convent building sits a small chapel, built in 1911 also of native timbers such as Matai & Rimu, it was originally located in Grove town some 15 mins away, before it was also sold and moved to its current site in 1999.  Although deconsecrated the property was used to hold small weddings.  The Chapel was renovated in 2018 and has now become our Chapel bar and lounging area which connects to the large outdoor fireplace which is for exclusive use of our house guests.

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We encourage you to tour through the site so that you may get a full understanding of our unique Boutique Hotel and vineyard sitting in the midst of 16 acres of parkland like gardens, surrounded by the world renown vineyards of Marlborough.