Newstead House Brisbane
Brisbane's oldest surviving home (1846), Newstead House offers a museum experience with historical collections and beautiful river views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy the house and gardens
Newstead House Brisbane
Best Time
Enjoy the house and gardens
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Brisbane's oldest surviving home (1846), Newstead House offers a museum experience with historical collections and beautiful river views.
"A great job of restoration, emphasizing different layers of history through its owners."
🎯 Check Renovation Status
While renovations are ongoing, check if the house is open for tours.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
The surrounding parkland is perfect for picnics and leisurely walks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colonial Era Rooms
Main House
Step back in time exploring rooms furnished to reflect different historical periods and owners.
Servants' Quarters
Downstairs
Discover the often-overlooked lives of those who worked in the house.
River and Park Views
Balcony
Enjoy picturesque vistas of the Brisbane River and surrounding parklands from the verandah.
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Hours & Tours
Embrace the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Renovation Status
While renovations are ongoing, check if the house is open for tours.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
The surrounding parkland is perfect for picnics and leisurely walks.
📚 Read the Information
Take your time to read the signs for a deeper understanding of the history.
📸 Capture the Views
The river and garden vistas are beautiful photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Renovation Status
While renovations are ongoing, check if the house is open for tours.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
The surrounding parkland is perfect for picnics and leisurely walks.
📚 Read the Information
Take your time to read the signs for a deeper understanding of the history.
📸 Capture the Views
The river and garden vistas are beautiful photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Newstead House for its excellent restoration and knowledgeable staff, offering a fascinating glimpse into Brisbane's colonial past. The picturesque river views and spacious grounds are ideal for picnics. While some note the house is small and best appreciated with reading the provided information, the overall experience is highly recommended for its historical significance and serene setting.
"Have always been curious about what was inside (when it was undergoing a renovation in 2024). Ended up going through during Brisbane Open House 2025. It was interesting and each room was presented nicely with information signs to read about the history / stories. Seeing the servants quarters underneath the house was cool. And stunning river / park views from the balcony. Enjoyed visiting. Toilets were available onsite, but there are also some public toilets in the nearby park. Spent approximately 30min here and that was enough for us, but you’d need more time (1hr) if you are reading all the information."
C B
"What a great job of restoration they've done with this place! An emphasis on the diferent layers of history through the lens of four owners. The staff were especially knowledgable."
Carl Martens
"Visited this past weekend (mid-July 2025) and they had an open house. A beautiful building in picturesque location. All rooms and ‘servants’ quarters (downstairs) open for viewing. Well signed and lots of old photos and information on prior residents and the area."
Stephen Matthews
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Newstead House is located at Breakfast Creek Rd & Newstead Ave, Newstead. You can reach it by car, with ample parking available. Public transport options include buses that stop nearby.
Yes, several bus routes service the Newstead area, making it accessible via public transport. Check local Brisbane transport schedules for the most convenient routes.
There is ample parking available at Newstead House, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! The grounds surrounding Newstead House are lovely for a walk, and the house itself is open for tours on select days.
Yes, Newstead House is situated in a prominent location at Breakfast Creek Road and Newstead Avenue, making it relatively easy to find.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Newstead House is typically open for visitors on Fridays (10 am-2 pm) and Sundays (10 am-4 pm). It's always best to confirm current hours on their official website before visiting.
While not always mandatory, booking tours in advance is recommended, especially for group visits or during peak times. Check their website for booking information.
Admission fees can vary, and it's advisable to check the official Newstead House website for the most up-to-date pricing for self-guided or guided tours.
Newstead House has specific opening days and may close for special events or renovations. Always verify their operating schedule before planning your visit.
Yes, Newstead House offers both self-guided and booked tours, allowing visitors to explore the historic residence.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find rooms furnished to reflect different historical periods, information signs about past residents, and the servants' quarters downstairs.
A typical visit can take around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend reading the historical information.
Yes, there are toilets available onsite, and public toilets are also located in the nearby park.
The grounds of Newstead House are a perfect spot for picnics, with a gentle hill and spacious grass area overlooking the Brisbane River.
Children can enjoy exploring the historic rooms and the surrounding parkland. The stories of past residents might also capture their imagination.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with staff upon arrival or look for signage regarding photography rules inside the house.
The balcony offering river views, the historic rooms, and the exterior architecture are all great for photography. The surrounding gardens also provide lovely backdrops.
With its historic architecture and beautiful grounds, Newstead House can be a picturesque location for wedding photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the lawn, making it a relaxed and affordable outing. While the historical details might be more engaging for older children, the open spaces and the novelty of a historic house can appeal to a wide range of ages. Remember to check opening hours as they are typically limited to specific days.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the details in each room – the furnishings, the color palettes, and the ornate wallpapers all tell a story. The insights provided by knowledgeable staff or detailed information signs will enrich your understanding of the social and economic history embedded within these walls.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Brisbane's Past
The restoration efforts have been meticulous, aiming to recreate the authentic atmosphere of the 1800s. This includes the careful selection of color schemes and ornate wallpapers that align with the Harris era. Exploring the house reveals not just the opulent living spaces but also the functional areas like the servants' quarters, offering a comprehensive view of the household's dynamics.
Beyond its historical interiors, Newstead House boasts stunning views of the Brisbane River and surrounding parklands. The verandah provides a perfect vantage point to appreciate the picturesque setting, making it an ideal spot for reflection or a leisurely afternoon. The grounds themselves are also a draw, offering space for picnics and a tranquil escape.
Visiting Newstead House: What to Expect
Visitors often spend about 30 minutes to an hour exploring the main house and its downstairs quarters, but this can extend if you delve deeply into all the historical information provided. The house is situated in a beautiful location, making the surrounding parklands an excellent addition to your visit. Many people enjoy having picnics on the gentle hill overlooking the Brisbane River. The area is well-maintained, with convenient parking and clean restroom facilities available.
While the house itself is a historical gem, it's worth noting that it has undergone significant renovations. These efforts have been praised for their quality and attention to historical detail, ensuring the house remains a significant heritage site for Brisbane.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit