Cooks' Cottage (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Cooks' Cottage?
School-age children can dress in colonial outfits, complete I-Spy and bee quests, and roam adjacent fairy statues and model village, giving both fun learning and safe outdoor play in one visit.
Positives:
- Family ticket savings: Under-5s are free and the family ticket covers two adults and two kids, reducing individual costs.
- Pram-friendly access: Wide sealed paths through the gardens make it easy to push strollers around the cottage.
Challenges:
- Narrow doorways: Uneven floors and low ceilings inside may require extra caution with young children.
- Last tour entry: The last cottage entry is at 3:45 pm, so plan to arrive earlier in the day.
What is so special about Cooks' Cottage for with kids?
- Explore an authentic 18th-century Yorkshire cottage in Melbourne.
- Kids can dress up in colonial costumes for memorable photos.
- Garden I-Spy adventure keeps children engaged outdoors.
- Pram-friendly paths and picnic spots ensure a relaxed family outing.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the cottage tour, dress-up, garden activities and a picnic without rushing young children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Cooks' Cottage
Self-guided cottage tour:
Explore 18th-century furnished rooms at your own pace.
Tip: Pick up the free fact sheet and allow about 30 minutes inside. Under-5s enter free.
Colonial costume dress-up:
Try on 18th-century outfits for fun family photos.
Tip: Ask staff on arrival; costumes are free and popular, so arrive early.
Fitzroy Gardens I-Spy Adventure:
Complete a garden treasure hunt to spot plants, statues and wildlife.
Tip: Collect the activity sheet at the Visitor Centre and return it for a small prize.
Picnic and playground break:
Relax on lawns and let kids play in nearby playgrounds.
Tip: Bring your own food, blanket and water; benches and shade are available.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Family ticket (2 adults + 2 children) | AUD 21.3 |
| Café snacks and drinks | AUD 20 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 41.3 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
When is the best time to visit Cooks' Cottage?
Summer can get hot—bring hats, sunscreen and water. In winter, wear warm layers and sturdy shoes for damp paths. Spring brings floral displays in the nearby Conservatory from 9 am–5 pm.
How to Maximize Your Visit to Cooks' Cottage
- Book tickets online: Secure your family ticket in advance to skip the line at the Visitor Centre.
- Arrive early: Morning visits avoid crowds, and you’ll find easier parking near Fitzroy Gardens.
Map of Cooks' Cottage
Address: Fitzroy Gardens, Wellington Parade, East Melbourne VIC 3002, Australia
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Reviews of Cooks' Cottage
Faith Simon
A beautiful walk along the path through the gardens and you come across this extraordinary cottage. A part of Melbourne history.
Dionne Barbra
I Can't believe I stepped into this cottage. It's like going back to the past and visualizing life back then. It's amazing to see how well this house has been preserved and placed in the centre of a very beautiful garden in Melbourne. Would love to come here again and explore more.
Daniel
Cooks’ Cottage is such a fascinating stop within the stunning Fitzroy Gardens – one of those hidden gems that makes a stroll through the park even more special. Originally built in Yorkshire, England in 1755 by the parents of Captain James Cook, this little cottage has quite the story. Although Captain Cook never actually lived there, the connection to his family was strong enough for Sir Russell ...
Nick
Great park to nap and walk. One of the parks where you feel open and fresh. Botanical can be a bit too many trees and less open
Helen Yu (Chestnut Journal)
Really interesting history with the Cooks' Cottage in Fitzroy Gardens, Melbourne. The house was originally built in the United Kingdom and then the whole house was shipped and reassembled here in Melbourne. The furniture features some really unique layouts that are specific to the way that people lived their lives then (and the guide there will tell you the story of the really short bed there and ...
About Cooks' Cottage
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 3 9658 9658See available options
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