Experiment Farm Cottage
Experiment Farm Cottage stands on the site of the first land grant in Australia, made in 1789 by Governor Phillip to the former convict, James Ruse. By 1791 Ruse had successfully farmed the 30 acre site as an experiment in self-sufficiency, proving that a new settler could feed and shelter his family with relatively little assistance to get started.
The Indian-style bungalow there today was built by Surgeon John Harris, who purchased the land from Ruse in 1793 for ₤40. It is thought to have been built by c1835. It is one of Australia’s oldest standing properties, and features in an 1837 sketch and subsequent watercolour by Conrad Martens.
The house is furnished to reflect the home of Surgeon Harris, with simple but elegant pieces from the National Trust’s collection of early colonial furniture, the largest of its kind in Australia. In the year 2000, the National Trust landscaped and planted the immediate grounds, using evidence from early paintings, plant catalogues and photographs to recreate, as far as possible, an authentic setting for the cottage. Guided tours are available, and a permanent display in the cellar tells the story of the site in all phases of its occupation; indigenous and colonial to the present day.
Activities
Guided tours, occasional special events.
Admittance by guided tours only.
Please note photography is not permitted.
Experiences
One of Australia’s oldest standing residences, demonstrating the simple yet elegant lifestyle of a leading member of the early colony. Experiment Farm Cottage is part of an historical precinct which included Hambledon Cottage (1824), Elizabeth Farm (1793) and the Queen’s Wharf, all within easy walking distance of each other.
Facilities
Parking, space for picnics in landscaped grounds with expansive views. Weddings, photographic shoots.
Children
A range of education and school programs are available, exploring the life of Ruse’s family, basic self-sufficiency (hands on planting) and the workings of an early colonial household.
ACCESSIBILITY
Click here to download an accessibility guide
Wheelchair users and people with limited mobility
Entry to the house is through the side gate to the courtyard. Portable ramp access to the ground floor of the house is available. All main rooms are accessible except the cellar, which has steep stairs. Electric wheelchairs cannot be used due to narrow doorways. Rear courtyard is accessible by steps.
Blind and visually impaired
Braille and audio tours are not currently available.
Guide/hearing dogs
Guide dogs are welcome. Please contact the property for handling requirements.
Deaf and hearing impaired
No induction loops are fitted in this house.
Parking
Bus parking is availabe on the eastern side of Ruse Street (entry via Alice Street). Car parking is avilable on the western side of the property. Pathway is not sealed; assistance may be required.
Accessible toilets
There are 2 toilets on site, but neither is wheelchair accessible. The nearest wheelchair accessible toilets are at the Historic Houses Trust property, Elizabeth Farm, a short distance by car from Experiment Farm Cottage, a 15 minute walk.
Sensory details
The gardens offer many scents and tactile experiences. School programs include replicas of clothing to try on and items to touch.
HOW TO GET THERE
Take the train from Sydney’s Central Station (approx 30 minute journey) to Parramatta Station – or catch the River Cat from Sydney’s circular Quay (approx 1 hour journey). Walk – about 15 mins from Parramatta Station.
The National Trust is a charity. The income required to look after and maintain this property and the many others you can look up here on our website comes largely from membership and donation. Please help us care for these properties on behalf of future generations. JOIN NOW and experience the benefits of membership. You can also donate online, just click here.
