Melbourne's oldest surviving building, the home of Victoria's first Lieutenant-Governor, Charles Joseph La Trobe
La Trobe’s Cottage was the home of Charles Joseph La Trobe, Victoria’s first governor, and his wife Sophie and their children from 1839 to 1854. Originally erected on his Jolimont estate, the single-story dwelling is constructed of timber, replicating the original prefabricated structure brought by him from London. The locally built dining room (1839), the first of many additions made during La Trobe’s tenure, is the oldest surviving Melbourne building. The modest yet elegant family home contains many pieces of La Trobe’s furniture and other historic artefacts. Learn more about La Trobe’s beloved garden and cottage here.
Join us at our next open day to learn about life in early Melbourne. Obtain a glimpse into La Trobe family life and enjoy the romantic garden re-created using plants available in the 1840s and 1850s.
In 2014, the cottage garden was awarded a Victorian Community History Award for Historical Interpretation.
Scroll down to explore the Open Day themes and programs.
School Holiday Openings
La Trobe’s Cottage will be open on Fridays 9, 16 and 23 January 2026, from 10am to 12pm — providing a special opportunity for visitors and families who are unable to attend on regular Sunday afternoons.
Step inside the charming cottage where the La Trobe children grew up, explore the original kitchen where meals were prepared, and discover what daily life was like in early Melbourne.
Families can enjoy traditional games the La Trobe children might have played, or follow a fun treasure hunt around the grounds.
Tickets can be pre-purchased online or on arrival.
