Hawley House was built as a substantial country residence in c.1878, by a retired Indian Army officer, Major Dumbleton, and named after the Dumbleton family home in 'Hawley House' in Aldershot, England (right). The ensuing 70 years were marked by general neglect and decay.

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Local newspaper The Advocate on 1st February 1939 described its dilapidated state eloquently :-

 

 Built in 1878 for the late Major Dumbleton, the year is inscribed on one of the concrete steps at its entrance – Hawley House, with its thirteen large rooms, is an old structure, gabled and grey....

There is something pathetic about the old English home. It stands a mute reminder of more prosperous days, and seems eloquent of the desire of the settlers to implant in a new land the  customs and traditions of the Homeland. It speaks of their proud ambition to establish in the country of the adoption homes such as their forefathers knew.

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In 1948, Colonel and Mrs Houghton fell under the charm of the unloved old house and its spectacular setting, purchased the property and brought it back to life. Were it not for the foresight of Colonel Houghton, another Indian Army Officer, it would no longer stand today.

 

Until 1990, Hawley remained the Houghton family private residence, when a new chapter of her history began, focusing on hospitality to holidaymakers, hosted by the descendant family members.