Old Housekeeper's Apartment, Old Bishop's Quarters, c. 1837
Sleeps 6 | Bedrooms 2 | Bathrooms 2
‘Bishopscourt’ was originally built in 1837, with later additions in 1889 and in 2019 completed by well-known architects George Fagg and Circa Morris-Nunn respectively. Home to the Anglican Bishops of Tasmania for over 135 years, Bishopscourt has been a place of religion, education, society gatherings, a place of opportunity, and a place of leisure. One of its most notable inhabitants was not in fact a bishop, but rather Field-Marshall Bernard ‘Monty’ Montgomery of El-Alamein fame, who grew up in the house while his father was the bishop. One of Australia’s oldest and finest heritage-listed buildings, it forms a significant part of the fabric of Australia’s colonial and ecclesiastical history. Owners & hosts Rebecca and Dermot Crean are proud to be the current custodians of Old Bishop’s Quarters, and welcome you to share in the beauty of this special property.
The Old Housekeeper’s Apartment is situated on the first floor of the original Georgian wing of the house. Initially home to the housekeeper and gardener of the property, it later became home to Bishop Montgomery’s extended family during their time at Bishopscourt. The spacious 110 square metre apartment is completely self-contained with a separate entrance to the main house. The apartment has been sympathetically restored, blending period character with modern comforts.
There are two generous bedrooms, one with a queen bed, the other with twin singles that can also be converted into a large double bed if required. Each bedroom also has a trundle bed, with the apartment sleeping up to six guests in total. All are fitted with quality linens and families are welcome, with cot & highchair available upon request. The apartment also has two modern bathrooms, with fluffy towels, complimentary amenities, and a beautiful deep soaking bath to relax in at the end of the day.
The lounge area has beautiful original oak flooring and charming sash windows, with enchanting views across the extensive gardens toward the Derwent River. Other period features include a beautiful Victorian leadlight window in the second bedroom. The kitchenette is equipped with a dishwasher, bar fridge, microwave, coffee machine, kettle and sandwich toaster; and milk, juice, tea and coffee are all provided.
Outdoors, there is a communal guest courtyard with outdoor seating and Weber BBQ. Old Bishop’s Quarters also sits on an acre of stunning English-inspired cottage gardens to explore, a rare pleasure considering its proximity to the CBD. The original outhouse offers guests the use of full laundry facilities, and additional fridge & freezer.
During your stay, relax with a good book - books on the history of the area, heritage architecture, gardens and the previous owners of the property are available for guests to enjoy. The Old Housekeeper’s Apartment offers a welcome change of scenery with all modern entertainment available.
Surrounded by peaceful, established gardens, yet just a stone’s throw from everything Hobart has to offer, come and experience a part of Hobart’s rich heritage. Exclusively for our readers, book for 2 nights or more & mention Historic Stays to receive a hamper of Tasmanian wine & homemade treats.
Special Features
Courtyard & BBQ
Established Gardens
Families Welcome
Heritage Listed
Things To Do
Take a stroll along the South Hobart Rivulet to the world-heritage listed Female Factory, Cascade Gardens, and the Cascade Brewery for lunch. It’s also a short walk to historic Battery Point and Salamanca, where attractions include Narryna House Museum and the famous Salamanca Market on Saturdays. The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) is a stone’s throw away. MONA is also just a short ferry ride away, leaving from Brooke St Pier. A half hour drive will take you to the pinnacle of kunanyi/Mt Wellington, where you can enjoy views over Hobart and surrounds, or take one of the many bushwalks on the mountain.
