What's really interesting is the history of Cooks' Cottage. It was originally built in 1755 in North Yorkshire, England. Then, in 1933 its owner decided to sell it and it was bought by an Australian businessman and philanthropist, for £800. He had it deconstructed brick by brick and packed into cases and barrels and shipped to Melbourne where it was re-constructed in 1934. I guess it follows that this must be the oldest house in Australia. Apparently, cuttings from ivy that adorned the house in England were also taken and planted when the house was re-constructed here. As you can see in the photos, a small English cottage garden has also been established around the house, further adding to its period reconstruction.

It's a tiny cottage really and it can get quite busy inside during nice weekends or when their's a bus load of Asian tourists visiting. The inside includes old antiques and in the back room you'll see information about Captain Cook and his expeditions. The clothes of the volunteer guides, is stylised in the way of the 18th century and for when taking photos, visitors can also dress up in similar costumes.

It's well worth a visit and then take a stroll through the magnificent Fitzroy Gardens. We loved it. We found the staff at Cooks' Cottage to be very helpful and very knowledgeable.