In a city filled with world-famous structures and natural beauty, Western Sydney tends to stay a little under the radar. But look a little bit deeper and you’ll find that what it lacks in beaches, it makes up for in cafes, fabulous sporting stadiums, a thriving nightlife and historical spots. In fact, Parramatta has recently been declared a Purple Flag zone which basically means that this is the place you need to go to if you’re looking to let your hair down. It is also home to not just Sydney’s but what is widely believed to be Australia’s oldest building. Hidden amongst the urban sprawl of Parramatta is a house called Elizabeth Farm. Once the home of young military couple John and Elizabeth Macarthur, Australia’s oldest homestead is an inconspicuous spot that has today turned into an immersive house museum.
Elizabeth Farm, Sydney
The story goes that Australia’s most historic building was the home and centre of John and Elizabeth Macarthur’s mercantile and farming empire for over 35 years. The Macarthurs along with their son Edward, arrived in Sydney in 1790 after a long 11-month journey. The house was subsequently built in 1793 overlooking part of the Parramatta River and has today been built into a museum that recreates the Macarthur home of the 1820s. In 1794, the house was known to be surrounded by a vineyard and a sprawling garden that included fruit trees and vegetables. Today it’s managed by Museums of History NSW and visitors are welcome to explore it for a small fee.
The cosy three-bedroom English-style cottage was refurbished into a country house with extra rooms and a verandah. According to the Sydney Living Museum website, “it still retains at its core much of the original 1793 structure.”
The 225-year-old structure was named after Elizabeth who continued to live there until her passing in 1850. History buffs can today wander the space and learn about the people who lived there and the colonial history associated with it. You can also take a step back in time and stroll along the recreated 1830s gardens.
How can I get to Elizabeth Farm?
This historic spot is easy to get to from in and around Sydney. It’s about a 10-minute walk from Parramatta Station and also a 10-minute walk from Parramatta Ferry Wharf.
Keen to learn more about Australia’s oldest building? Head to the Museums of History NSW website and book your tickets.
Read more about Elizabeth Farm, its history and the Macarthur’s here.