tea pluckers in tea hills in Sri Lanka with basket full of fresh leaves

Sri Lanka

Ashburnham Estate in Sri Lanka

Knuckles Mountains

A former planters bunglow nestled in the foothills of the Knuckles Mountains, with its own private tea estate, waterfalls and exceptional hospitality - an idyllic retreat.

Set in Sri Lanka’s lush hill country, Ashburnham Estate is a historic plantation bungalow surrounded by emerald tea fields and dramatic mountain views. With just six charming rooms, this intimate retreat offers a blend of rustic elegance and colonial charm. Guests can explore tea estate trails, cool off by a natural pool fed by a nearby waterfall, or simply relax in one of the many cosy spots throughout the property.

Whether you’re hiking through the estate, enjoying delicious Sri Lankan dishes, or unwinding on the veranda, Ashburnham offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation, perfect for couples and families alike.

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your Sri Lanka holiday today.

A team of real travel experts, brilliant at designing bespoke holidays that focus on boutique hotels and luxury hideaways

Our experience with Lucy and the Sundowner team in Sri Lanka was nothing short of exceptional. Their meticulous attention to detail ensured that every aspect of our trip catered perfectly to our family's needs, making our visit truly memorable.
Sobana, Sri Lanka

"Sipping tea overlooking endless hills and learning about tea-making made my stay at Ashburnham Estate truly unforgettable."

Knuckles Mountains
6 rooms
Eco-focus
Wifi
On-site dining
In room treatments available
Tea estate trails
Natural pool
a girl sitting on the rock looking over countryside vistas at Ashburnham Estate

Why we love it here

• Stunning views over tea fields and mountains
• Access to a natural swimming pool near a waterfall
• Authentic tea estate experience with plantation tours
• Home-cooked meals with local Sri Lankan flavours
• Charming veranda with comfortable, colonial-style seating

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Talk to us about your perfect trip to Sri Lanka

Call 01273 923100 to start planning your Sri Lanka Holiday today.

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large light bedroom with big white bed and white sheets at Ashburnham Estate

Rooms

Ashburnham Estate’s six rooms exude character and a timeless, rustic charm. Each room is individually decorated with Sri Lankan antiques, vintage furnishings, and unique touches that blend colonial elegance with homely comfort. Guests can enjoy sweeping views of tea terraces, vibrant gardens, or the tranquil countryside. Thoughtful details like cosy beds, locally crafted decor, and a distinct old-world atmosphere create a unique retreat where guests feel connected to the area’s history and natural beauty. The rooms are spacious, offering ample relaxation space after a day of exploration.

fresh salad with mango, seafood and lime Ashburnham Estate

Food

Dining at Ashburnham Estate is an experience filled with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and authentic Sri Lankan flavours. The in-house chefs prepare a variety of meals featuring both local and Western influences, creating a delicious fusion of culinary traditions. Breakfast might include fresh fruits and traditional Sri Lankan curries, while evening meals offer heartier fare, served in the intimate dining area or out on the veranda overlooking the hills. The estate’s commitment to sustainability shines through, with meals crafted to showcase seasonal ingredients and the vibrant spices of the region.

High Tea set up at the top of a hill at Ashburnham Estate

Activities

Guests at Ashburnham Estate can enjoy a host of activities that celebrate the area’s natural beauty and heritage. The estate offers guided tours of its working tea plantation, where visitors learn about tea production and processing. For those seeking adventure, the estate’s trails wind through scenic landscapes, leading to hidden viewpoints or the estate’s natural pool, a refreshing spot for a swim by a cascading waterfall. Additional activities, such as cooking classes and yoga sessions, allow guests to immerse themselves in Sri Lankan culture and the serene surroundings.

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Sundowner felt like true partners in our big holiday. Lucy spent time with me, chatting about our family and our likes and dislikes, before coming up with an itinerary which barely needed tweaking. Everything went smoothly: tickets, payments, use of the Travel App, etc. Sundowner removed the entire mental load from the holiday.
And then the holiday was fabulous. We were met at the airport and steered through, met our fabulous driver who looked after our every need, and just stayed in the best places. The balance of ‘doing’ and ‘resting’ was great. I will always use Sundowner now for holidays outside Europe and will recommend them to everyone.

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It was the holiday of a lifetime! Our trip to Sri Lanka was totally effort free allowing us to experience the best of this amazing country and exceptionally friendly people.

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