Elizabeth Farm

Cheap day out. You can have a little picnic in the grounds or eat at the cafe. Really interesting and great for kids.

It had a been around 15 years since we had our last visit. From right in the beginning of our visit, we found the staff / volunteer at the desk and other people really helpful and willing to share information about the property. From a historical perspective, it was one of the better living museums in Sydney. The old furniture, fittings, crockery, piano, beds, fabrics and floor coverings were genuine. The fact that there was almost no cut off areas where you could not go. If you wanted to walk into the main bedroom and touch the chairs, the bed and desk, you could do this, not like many other museums where you are prevented from entering many rooms. The garden area was very enjoyable and as an aside, the facilities were clean and tidy and they did have a disabled toilet. All very important. If you do want to see a slice of Australian history from the early 19th century, this is the place. Although I am not one of those who things MacArthur was a great man, he probably should have been hung for treason or at least sent back to England for his participation in the Coup.

Fantastic visit. Gives you a real feel for the life of the early settlers. Knowledgeable, friendly tour guide. Recommended.

Elizabeth Farm is one of the oldest homes in Australia. I really have a great experience searching all the rooms, around the place and also a peaceful garden. It is really feeling touch with the historic homestead because this place is really a beautiful and great place to spend time here. Friendly staffs and great service. You can have a rest with a nice coffee shop here.

Elizabeth farm is one of the oldest homes in Australia. This restful homestead hides a dark and stormy past. Built for the young military couple John and Elizabeth Macarthur and their growing family, Elizabeth Farm has witnessed major events in the growth of the colony, from the toppling of governors and convict rebellion to the birth of the Australian wool industry. As the original cottage was transformed into a fine colonial bungalow, the family’s life was equally gripped with turmoil and drama. Today, set within a re-created 1830s garden, Elizabeth Farm is an ‘access all areas’ museum. There are no barriers, locked doors, delicate furnishings or untouchable ornaments. Australia’s oldest homestead is now our most hands-on ‘living’ house museum.

As a guide here at Elizabeth Farm, and at other Sydney Living Museums properties, I'd like to express my thanks for all the lovely reviews that other reviewers have submitted here (you all receive 5 stars).

For those few who have somehow found their experience wanting, I personally and most sincerely apologise.

At Sydney Living Museums we strive hard to make visitors' experiences fun and fascinating. We do an amazing job as a publicly-funded heritage organisation, and I believe we have a world class offer of tours, events and exhibitions. The proceeds of every entry or event ticket go to maintain our properties. I consider our visitors are partners in preserving Australia's rich and varied heritage so every visit counts as your active support.

Again, thank you everyone. We so enjoy sharing Australia's heritage with you. It is a delight and a pleasure to serve.

Kindest and warmest regards.

Nice to see this bit of Australian history preserved.
I expected to learn more about Elizabeth Macarthur herself.
My advice to people visiting Sydney is don't go out of your way to go to Elizabeth Farm.

Lovely amble through house and gardens. Lovely staff. Has changed much since my childhood excursion many years ago. You are allowed to touch the items and sit on the furniture etc.

Great cafe excellent customer service. Best ever devonshire tea exceptional scones freshly made onsite. Treat yourself!

Didn't really go inside, but the exterior was pleasing to look at. This colourful moth was definitely a plus

A part of the Living Museums, it was very interesting to explore. The staff are so funny, warm and welcoming. They give you an I pad to explore the place on your own, but you can also join a tour. Our guide was soo helpful and informative.a one hour tour lasted 2 because we had great discussions and she (Lyn) answered all questions patiently. The farm is beautifully maintained and you can't help but be transported back in time. With bus stops very close by, it is easy to get to Paramatta Station for the metro.

One can experience the 225 years old heritage cottage. Also the old kitchen, bedroom and garden is kept very well to give an insight about that time.

Toured the farm with the included iPad self guided tour which was very informative and detailed. A must for all history buffs and anyone who wants to learn about Sydney’s past.

Great experience.
Highly recommend doing a tour of the house, very fascinating history. Also highly recommend the scones from the cafe! Outstanding!

Beautifully restored living museum. Interesting historical and personal information of life early in Sydney's colonisation.

Stunning local history brought to life by exceptionally educated guides. First Australian olive tree, first Muslim, Greek pirates, all come together on this ancient Indigenous garden by the Parramatta.

Very interesting history, great that you can walk through and not worry about it being original antiques. The interior is staged very well. Great tour guides

We took the 1pm tour with Rema. She had an excellent knowledge of the property and the Macarthur family history. Whether you take the tour or not, make sure you visit the cellar which is located below the large kitchen. And ring the servants bell - the rope is located alongside the wall in the dinning room.

Uninspiring cafe for tea and scones though the historic house and garden are nice enough if that interests you for $12.

Elizabeth Farm is great to visit for all the family. Heaps of history to learn about, beautiful grounds, and perhaps the world's most delicious scones (though the coffee is standard at best). They also hold a Spring Harvest Festival each year which has heaps of fun things to see and do.