Hambledon Cottage, Heritage cottage in Parramatta, Australia

Hambledon Cottage is a residential building in Parramatta built in Georgian style using sandstock bricks and Australian red cedar. The structure sits within grounds that contain mature gardens and offers insight into how colonial families lived in the early 1800s.

Hambledon Cottage was built between 1821 and 1824 on the north-western corner of the 100-acre grant made to John Macarthur in 1793, land that formed the basis of the 850-acre Elizabeth Farm Estate. The main wing was designed by Henry Kitchen, a simplified version of his original plan; the gabled kitchen was added later. Archdeacon Thomas Hobbes Scott lodged there in 1825 and added a coach house and stable in 1826.

Penelope Lucas lived here from 1827 until her death in 1836, having been left a small annuity and lifetime residency by John Macarthur. She took her evening meals at Elizabeth Farm because the cottage had no formal kitchen; the west kitchen wing was added between 1832 and 1836. Macarthur's daughter Emmeline joined her here.

The cottage today operates as a house museum managed by the Parramatta and District Historical Society, offering visitors a look at colonial life through displays and educational activities. It is worth checking opening times ahead of your visit to ensure access for guided tours and programs.

The tree planting was carried out under Edward Macarthur, who used the cottage as his temporary residence after arriving in New South Wales in 1851; he also had a new entry built on the northern facade and the house re-roofed. By 1854 the garden was enclosed with a low timber picket fence and double gates stood on the eastern side.