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Cooks' Cottage: A Journey from Yorkshire to Melbourne

Step back in time at Cooks' Cottage in Melbourne's Fitzroy Gardens, a charming 18th-century English home with a fascinating history.

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Nestled in Melbourne's Fitzroy Gardens, Cooks' Cottage offers a unique glimpse into 18th-century England. Originally built in 1755 in Yorkshire by the parents of Captain James Cook, it was transported to Australia in 1934. Explore this charming cottage and its English cottage garden, a tangible link to colonial history.

A brief summary to Cooks' Cottage

  • Monday 10 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Allow at least 30 minutes to explore the cottage and its gardens.
  • Visit the Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre for information, tickets, and souvenirs.
  • Take a stroll through the beautiful Fitzroy Gardens after visiting the cottage.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Cooks' Cottage is located within Fitzroy Gardens, a 15-minute walk from Federation Square. From Federation Square, walk east along Flinders Street, then turn right onto Wellington Parade. Enter Fitzroy Gardens and follow the signs to Cooks' Cottage.

  • Public Transport

    Take tram routes 48 or 75 and disembark at the Wellington Parade stop, adjacent to Fitzroy Gardens. Alternatively, take the train to Parliament or Jolimont Station. From either station, it's a short walk to the gardens. A single tram or train fare within the city is approximately $5.

  • Taxi

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Melbourne. A taxi from Melbourne CBD to Fitzroy Gardens will cost approximately $7 - $10. Note that fares may vary depending on the time of day and traffic conditions.

Unlock the Best of Cooks' Cottage

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Discover more about Cooks' Cottage

Cooks' Cottage, also known as Captain Cook's Cottage, is a unique historical landmark located in Fitzroy Gardens, Melbourne. The cottage was originally constructed in 1755 in the village of Great Ayton, North Yorkshire, England, by the parents of Captain James Cook. While it's unlikely that Captain Cook himself ever lived in the cottage, it stands as a monument to his family and 18th-century English life. In 1933, the cottage was purchased by Sir Russell Grimwade, who had it dismantled, brick by brick, and shipped to Melbourne. Each brick was individually numbered and packed into barrels for the journey. The cottage was reconstructed in Fitzroy Gardens and opened to the public in 1934 as part of Victoria's centenary celebrations. Today, visitors can explore the cottage and its charming English cottage garden. The interior is styled in the manner of the 18th century, with antique furnishings representative of the period. Volunteer guides dressed in period costume add to the immersive experience. A visitor centre near the cottage provides information, tickets, and souvenirs.

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