The Johnston Collection East Melbourne
Discover a hidden gem: an intimate private museum in East Melbourne showcasing over 2500 antiquities with engaging guided tours.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
The Johnston Collection East Melbourne
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a hidden gem: an intimate private museum in East Melbourne showcasing over 2500 antiquities with engaging guided tours.
"A novel experience, enraptured, entertained & enlightened by everything!"
Bookings are Essential
Secure your spot in advance as tours are small and fill up quickly. 🎟️
Arrive at Hotel Foyer
Meet at the Pullman on the Park hotel foyer for your shuttle transfer. 🚌
Quick Facts
Rating
4.5 · 52 reviews
Type
Museum
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intimate Home Museum Experience
East Melbourne
Explore a private home transformed into a museum, showcasing over 2500 antiquities with rotating themes.
Knowledgeable & Engaging Guides
Throughout the collection
Personalized tours led by passionate staff who bring each room and artifact to life.
Rotating Themed Exhibitions
Various rooms
Discover unique displays that change regularly, offering fresh perspectives on art and history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead & Arrive on Time
Accessibility & Suitability
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bookings are Essential
Secure your spot in advance as tours are small and fill up quickly. 🎟️
Arrive at Hotel Foyer
Meet at the Pullman on the Park hotel foyer for your shuttle transfer. 🚌
Allow Ample Time
Plan for at least 2 hours to fully immerse yourself in the collection. 🕐
Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be walking through several rooms, so wear comfortable footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bookings are Essential
Secure your spot in advance as tours are small and fill up quickly. 🎟️
Arrive at Hotel Foyer
Meet at the Pullman on the Park hotel foyer for your shuttle transfer. 🚌
Allow Ample Time
Plan for at least 2 hours to fully immerse yourself in the collection. 🕐
Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be walking through several rooms, so wear comfortable footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Ask Questions!
The guides are incredibly knowledgeable and love to share insights. :speech_balloon:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Johnston Collection for its intimate setting, knowledgeable guides, and beautifully curated displays. The personalized experience, including a shuttle service and complimentary refreshments, is a significant highlight. While the historic nature means steep stairs, most find the visit to be a delightful and enriching discovery of Melbourne's heritage.
"had the absolute best time ! staff are very nice and knowledgeable and everything has been handled with care and presented in such an intimate setting that brings it to another level. it was my first time visiting and even just learning about how the collection was started was very interesting. they always have different exhibitions on as well and i will strive to catch this any time i’m in town from now on. ticket price also includes a coffee/tea and pickup and drop off at a site. it’s definitely worthwhile and i hope it continues on for many years to come !"
Yen Arcilla
"Novel experience on my maiden venture to the private home museum for the conclusion of "Inspired by Women" exhibition yesterday.
The hidden secrets of heritage Melbourne that is both surprising & delightful to discover! In a part of our city so well known to all (near MCG). Please book ahead & turn up on time & wait in the foyer of hotel Pullman on the Park. Easy to get here by tram or train (Jolimont station is across). 15 mins walk from Richmond station.
I was enraptured, entertained & enlightened by everything! From the uniformed personable TJC staff who chauffeured us in a nice shuttle bus for just a few mins to the actual location, to the complimentary Wedgwood tea/coffee service, the well-informed friendly guides hosting small groups of six/seven & finally the period home re-imagined in the themes presented (albeit with most original furnishings intact). Steep staircase to navigate inside & not too sure if suitable for kids (above 8 allowed). Allow 2 hours
This was definitely up there with the best of Manors & palatial residences I was fortunate to visit in UK recently. All made better for the details I could appreciate without being overwhelmed or fatigued by travel. Gift shop is good too & so is that cryptic Bookshelf!!😊😎✨️✨️"
The Melbie
"This is a very special place to visit over 2500 collected pieces of English and indian antiquities that are displayed in various Formats and themes. Different displays rotating. It is presented beautifully and the volunteers have a wealth of knowledge and make your tour entertaining and interesting. Please consider this on your visit to Melbourne"
Tanya Dugard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Visitors meet at the foyer of the Pullman on the Park hotel, located near the MCG. From there, a complimentary shuttle bus will take you to the collection. It's easily accessible by tram or train, with Jolimont station nearby and a 15-minute walk from Richmond station.
While specific parking details for the Pullman on the Park hotel aren't provided, it's a well-connected area with public transport options. Consider public transport to avoid parking hassles.
The shuttle transfer is a short, convenient ride from the hotel to the collection, often described as being handled by personable staff.
The collection is located in East Melbourne. While the shuttle is provided, it's a pleasant walk from nearby train stations like Jolimont or Richmond if you prefer.
Public transport is highly recommended. Trams and trains serve the area well, making it easy to reach the Pullman on the Park hotel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are considered worthwhile and often include a complimentary coffee or tea. It's best to check their official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, booking ahead is highly recommended as tours are small and operate with limited capacity.
The collection operates on a tour basis, so it's essential to book a specific time slot. Check their website for available tour times.
It's strongly advised to book in advance to guarantee your spot, as tours are intimate and popular.
Your ticket typically includes the guided tour, a shuttle transfer from the hotel, and a complimentary coffee or tea.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors allocate around 2 hours to fully experience the collection and its detailed presentations.
Yes, all tours are guided by knowledgeable and friendly staff who provide fascinating insights into the collection. +1
The collection is generally recommended for ages 8 and above due to steep staircases and the nature of the exhibits.
The setting is intimate and personal, as it's housed within a historic private home, making the experience feel very special.
The Johnston Collection frequently hosts different exhibitions, often incorporating contemporary art or design into the historic setting.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there isn't a full restaurant, your ticket often includes a complimentary coffee or tea service.
It's best to consume food and drinks before or after your tour to maintain the integrity of the historic collection.
The meeting point at the Pullman on the Park hotel is in an area with several dining options. East Melbourne also has cafes and restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary, but generally, non-flash photography for personal use is permitted. It's always best to check with your guide on arrival.
The collection's unique blend of historic interiors and curated displays offers many picturesque opportunities. Look for the interplay of light and artifacts.
Flash photography is typically not allowed to protect the delicate artifacts and artworks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit