Elizabeth Bay House

Elizabeth Bay House is a great attraction tucked away in Woolloomooloo and one of the finest examples of architecture of its era. The house was constructed from 1835 to 1839 and, for a time, was once referred to as ‘the finest house in the colony’; a suitable name for the impressive home.

The design of the house was created by John Verge – a renowned and accomplished architect at the time.

Elizabeth Bay House, Wedding, History & High Tea, Sydney Australia

The house accommodated the then colonial Secretary and his family. It is a befitting example of colonial architecture and one of the most iconic attractions in Sydney, with its strategic location providing panoramic views of the Sydney Harbour.

This historic colonial-style home underwent renovations in 1977 before opening its doors to the public as a house museum. Today, the Sydney Living Museums manages its operations, and the house is listed on the Australian Register of the National Estate.

One of the most delightful things about this house is its sweeping elegance that welcomes you back to the 19th century. The elegant interior design paints a clear picture of life in that era. Walking down the stairs, you can almost hear the chirping birds that once lived in the expansive 54-acre lush gardens. The house’s surroundings were so fertile that it was often referred to as a haven for botanists and bird lovers.

Visit the house’s famous saloon – this is one of the most important parts of the house due to its striking design and architecture. Pass by the butler’s pantry and, for a moment, picture the elaborate parties held on location at the house. The dining room hosted outlandish feasts worth the Colonial Secretary’s stature, making this a befitting place of the house to tour.

Other noteworthy parts of the house include the library, home to a fantastic collection, and the grotto tucked within the stone walls that support the garden terrace above. It features stone seats with a roof carved from an overhanging rock.

Elizabeth House is about 4.5km east of the Sydney CBD. The 311 bus will bring you to Greenknowe Avenue, a 10-minute walk from Elizabeth Bay House or a 7-minute walk from Kings Cross train station. The closest available parking is at the Kings Cross Car Park on Ward Ave. Fees apply.

For people who require wheelchair access, please call beforehand to arrange entrance to the building. Inside the house, only the ground floor is accessible to people with low mobility, and ground-floor-only tours can be arranged on request.

Elizabeth Bay House is open between Friday and Saturday from 10am to 4pm.