Although not strictly speaking a business, being a National Trust property, Labassa House is a wonderful venue which can be hired for weddings and receptions, parties, special events such as theatre performances and as a backdrop for advertising.

Or, it's just a truly lovely day out. Unlike Como and Rippon Lea, the charm of this gracious home, saved from the brink of demolition, is that it's a work in progress. You can see the restoration as it occurs - wallpapers being discovered under overpainting, original ceilings underneath false new ones, and leaf through the photo books to discover the history and see the work which has been done.

At a family ticket of $20 it's an entertaining day out and there's a tea room as well. History trails to follow for children and very helpful and informative volunteers abound. You can photograph the outside, but not the interior. That's why you pay $10 for a beautifully illustrated guide book. It's worth it.

We thoroughly enjoyed our visit and that we were contributing in a small way to the revival of its grandeur.

Approximate cost: $10 adult, $8 concession $4 child $20 family Illustrated book $10