Bella Vista at 47 Church Street, Mayfield | Property of the week

Originally built in 1919 as a residence for BHP Steelworks manager David Baker, it was later used to entertain dignitaries.

Distinguished guests to have visited the property include Edward Prince of Wales, before he became King Edward VIII, Lord Louis Mountbatten and Queen Elizabeth II, during her tour to Newcastle in 1954.

Then Governor-General Prince Henry, the Duke of Gloucester, stayed in 1946 and G.D. Delprat was also a guest, as was his son-in-law Antarctic explorer Sir Douglas Mawson.

In more recent times, the two-storey Edwardian mansion has been used as a wedding and function venue known as Bella Vista.

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Owners John and Sheryl Nisner have spent the past 12 months painstakingly restoring the residence of grand proportions, which features a palatial grand hall, modern kitchen with two butlers pantries, sitting rooms, terraces, five bedrooms and five bathrooms on 1664 square metres of land. The property has Development Application approval to build a pool and garage.

"It has been part of our lives for 20 years," Mr Nisner said. "It's so beautiful and it's so steeped in history and we just love the place. We have mixed feelings about leaving but a decision to change our retirement lifestyle sees us moving to the Hunter Valley.

"We will be really sorry to see it go and hope another family has as much pleasure as we have had living here."

Bella Vista is now part of the Park Bella Vista estate with access to the heritage gardens.

The property at 47 Church Street in Mayfield is being marketed by Darren Penn, of Ray White Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, through public tender closing September 10. A guide has not yet been set. Inspections are by appointment.