Historic Houses of Sydney Harbour

Historic Houses of Sydney Harbour

Sydney Harbour is home to some of Australia’s most captivating historic houses, each offering a unique glimpse into the region’s rich colonial and architectural heritage. Most are dominant landmarks for the millions of Sydney Harbour ferry and cruise passengers.

From grand Gothic mansions like Vaucluse House to elegant Greek Revival villas such as Elizabeth Bay House, these residences showcase the craftsmanship, history, and natural beauty of the Harbour’s surroundings.

Visitors can explore stately homes like Lindesay and Strickland House or learn about governance at Kirribilli and Admiralty Houses. Whether for breathtaking views, intriguing histories, or tranquil gardens, these properties invite everyone to step back in time and discover Sydney’s fascinating past.

1. Vaucluse House

Location: Vaucluse, Sydney Harbour South Head Peninsula

Vaucluse House, a stunning Gothic Revival mansion built in the early 19th century, was once the residence of colonial politician William Charles Wentworth. Surrounded by lush gardens, this historic estate now operates as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into early colonial life in Australia.

The property provides a serene and educational experience, blending architectural beauty with history. Additionally, the onsite Estate Restaurant is open to the public, serving as a charming venue for dining and hosting weddings. Plan your visit through Museums of History NSW.

2. Elizabeth Bay House

Location: Elizabeth Bay, 3km East of the Sydney Opera House

Built between 1835 and 1839, Elizabeth Bay House is a remarkable Greek Revival villa constructed for Alexander Macleay, a prominent colonial administrator. It stands as a superb example of Australian colonial architecture, featuring a central elliptical saloon, domed lantern, and a striking geometric staircase.

Perched high above the bay, it offers panoramic views of Sydney Harbour. Now a museum, the house showcases exhibits about the Macleay family and provides insights into colonial life in early Australia. Plan your visit through Museums of History NSW.

3. Lindesay

Location: Darling Point, 4km East of the Sydney Opera House

Built in 1834, Lindesay is a Georgian-style mansion and the first house in Darling Point, showcasing one of Sydney’s earliest examples of Gothic Revival architecture. Perched above the Harbour, it offers breathtaking views.

Visitors can arrange tours to explore its fascinating history, original rooms with period furnishings, a statue-filled parterre garden, and downstairs servants’ quarters featuring a stone kitchen and freshwater well. The gardens provide uninterrupted Harbour views, and regular open days invite visitors to enjoy its charm, historical artifacts, and beautiful surroundings. Plan your visit through National Trust.

4. Strickland House (Carrara House)

Location: Vaucluse, Sydney Harbour South Head Peninsula

Carrara House, also known as Strickland House, is a heritage-listed Victorian Italianate mansion in Sydney Harbour National Park. Designed by John Hilly, it was a 19th-century residence for Sydney elites, later serving as a convalescent home and aged care facility.

Today, its gardens welcome visitors for picnics, bushwalks, and photography, with stunning Harbour views from the lawn. Accessible via the Hermitage Foreshore track or Milk Beach, the estate features English-style gardens with native plants like Moreton Bay figs. Close to Nielsen Park and Rose Bay, this peaceful retreat offers unforgettable sunsets and a restorative escape from city life. Plan your visit through NSW National Parks and Wildife Service.

5. Kirribilli House

Location: Kirribilli, Directly North of the Sydney Opera House

Kirribilli House, on Kirribilli Point, overlooks Sydney Harbour and serves as the Prime Minister’s official Sydney residence. Built in 1854 by Adolph Feez as a Gothic-style marine villa, it was originally called Sophienberg. The site holds historical significance, being Cammeraygal land named “Kiarabilli,” meaning "good fishing."

Over the years, the house passed through multiple owners, including Arthur Wigram Allen, before being acquired by the Commonwealth Government in 1920. Renovated in 1956, it hosted notable international guests before becoming primarily a residence for Prime Ministers. Artworks reflecting Australian heritage are displayed throughout the house, courtesy of The Australiana Fund. Public access is restricted to special occasions.

6. Admiralty House

Location: Kirribilli, Directly North of the Sydney Opera House

Admiralty House, Sydney’s residence of the Governor-General, is a historic landmark on Sydney Harbour. Built in the mid-1800s on the traditional land of the Cammeraygal people, it was originally named ‘Wotonga’ before becoming Admiralty House in 1885.

Initially housing the Admiral of the Royal Navy’s Australian Squadron, it became the Governor-General’s Sydney residence in 1913. Today, it hosts events for community groups, royalty, and Heads of State, as well as annual Open Days. The precinct includes the 1850s Marine Barracks, a historical fortification. Admiralty House remains a key symbol of Australia’s history and governance.

Generally only open to the public on special occasions. For more information visit The Governor-General of The Commonwealth of Australia.