Governor’s Mansion Hatton
Source:Ceylon.Guide
The Governor’s Mansion was once the heart of 18 tea estates, but it has only one now, where they produce Sri Lanka’s speciality Ceylon black tea. Records and information suggest the Governor’s Mansion was built around 1800 AD. Photographic evidence taken in early 1820 appears the mansion was indeed not new and signs of wear are clearly evident.
Governor’s Mansion was built by the father of the late William Scott, who was closely connected to the British royal family. Princesses have been frequent visitors to enjoy their summer vacations on a regular basis. This continued until the princess who was heir to the throne was coronated.
William Scott, while he was the manager of the Governor’s Mansion, built the famous Christ Church Warleigh in Dickoya. The original bible that was gifted to the church by the rector of Warboys Parish is can be still seen at the church.
Visitors to the mansion included some very high profile statesman and distinguished members of society. There is documentary evidence to substantiate such claims. The mansion stood in the middle of eighteen other tea estates and the governor of the estates resided in the mansion.
World War II gave the late Scott family the opportunity to show their patriotism when they offered several wings of the mansion to high ranking army officials to recover and recuperate. Speeches delivered at International gatherings show appreciation for the services offered by the late Scott family to the British army.
Today the Governor’s Mansion is a fully restored English styled mansion, set 4000 ft above sea level in the cool climes of the famous Tea valley of Dickoya in Sri Lanka, offering its guests a trip back in time when British planters once called it ‘home’.
With magnificent views of bustling tea estates, mist-covered mountain ranges and a beautiful terraced garden; the ideal setting offers fresh air, unrivaled peace and seclusion all day as well as access to sporting activities and sightseeing opportunities. Whether for a family vacation, a romantic getaway or for a writer’s seclusion, the Governor’s Mansion at Dickoya, offers a very special luxuriously pampered experience for anyone.
It has 11 suites decorated with a mixture of colonial antiques: large trunks, well-worn chest-of-drawers, and contemporary furnishings, creating a relaxing ‘modern-colonial’ feel.
The restaurant is at its best when serving Sri Lankan food however they also do Western dishes. Homemade jams, scones and tea cakes, and the freshest tea you might ever have, while overlooking vast valleys of tea and the cloud-tipped Adam’s Peak in the distance.
