ACT Historic Places

Lanyon Homestead

Lanyon Homestead, at the foot of the Brindabellas, is one of Australia’s premier historic properties. Located within a landscape of great natural beauty, the property includes evidence of Indigenous occupation. The homestead dates from the 1850s and is set within superb pleasure gardens. The site offers students a variety of hands-on, site-specific experiences ranging from convict role-play and artefact study to 1800s crafts and games.

Address: Tharwa Drive, Tharwa ACT 2620

Calthorpes' House 

Calthorpes’ House is a window into an almost forgotten world. Built in 1927, this genuine survivor is a treasure trove of domestic history. A visit here will take students back to the time when Harry and Dell Calthorpe and their daughters, Del and Dawn, lived in the house. Students will enjoy hearing the pianola, exploring the gardens and seeing what daily life was like in the new National Capital.

Address: 24 Mugga Way, Red Hill ACT 2603

Mugga-Mugga Cottage

Mugga-Mugga cottage and paddocks are only minutes away from the city centre. Dating from the 1860s, this museum stands as a testament to the lives of the families who worked on Duntroon Station, one of the first great pastoral estates of the Limestone Plains. Learning programs explore themes such as landscape change, water sources and early technologies.

Address: 129 Narrabundah Lane, Symonston ACT 2603