Vaucluse House. Photograph (c) Brett Broadman

Vaucluse House

In the history of NSW, William Charles Wentworth was involved in many firsts. In 1813 he took part in the first European crossing of the Blue Mountains, in 1824 he co-published the colony’s first independent newspaper, The Australian, and in 1852 he helped form Australia’s first institute of higher learning, Sydney University. On a less celebratory note, 6 May 1873 saw him given NSW first public funeral. Over 2000 mourners attended his funeral and as his body made its way home, 60,000 to 70,000 people lined the streets from St Andrew’s Cathedral to Vaucluse.

Why did so many turn up? As one of our most influential Australian born colonists, he fought politically for his country and its new people. In his early career he argued for the rights of freed convicts and small settlers against the colonial elite. Later in life he lobbied for and achieved responsible government for New South Wales, which passed into legislation in 1856.

VINTAGE SUNDAYS: VICTORIAN

Wentworth Mausoleum. Photo © James Horan
From preparing hot punch in the kitchen to playing parlour games, there will be plenty of indulgences to transport you back to the Victorian era at Vaucluse House.
More information

EAT YOUR HISTORY

Pineapple and melon jam in the kitchen at Vaucluse House (detail). Photo © James Horan

The Cook and the Curator blog invites you to explore our food heritage. Each month we will bring you stories, recipes and more from our unique properties and collections.
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TEAROOMS

TEAROOMS

Catch up with friends and family at the Vaucluse House Tearooms.


T 02 9388 8188

Find out more

Address: Wentworth Road, Vaucluse, NSW 2030

Contact: House: 02 9388 7922 | Tearooms: 02 9388 8188

Admission:

  •  Adult $8 I
  •  Child/Concession $4 |
  •  Family $17 |
  •  Members free |
  • Wheelchair access

Hours: Open Friday - Sunday 11am – 4pm | Tours every hour, last tour 3pm | Open daily during NSW school holidays | Closed Good Friday and Christmas Day

Transport:

Language guide:

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