A Morning In East Melbourne: Home Comforts & Bishopscourt Garden — Double Tour

Spend a morning in East Melbourne and visit both the Home Comforts exhibition at Fairhall and the gardens of Bishopscourt.

Home Comforts
Home Comforts reveals new stories about the meaning of ‘home’ in the 1700s and 1800s.

Each room of Fairhall, an 1860s East Melbourne townhouse, has been re-imagined to explore how technological innovations, global trade, and a growing middle class brought a new sense of comfort to homes in this period.

Discover over fifty historical quilts from the private collection of Melbourne-based textile researcher and historian, Janet O’Dell, displayed alongside treasures of British and European fine and decorative arts.

Experience Georgian and Regency family life ‘at home’ in the intimate, domestic setting of The Johnston Collection.

Bishopscourt Gardens:
Bishopscourt is one of the oldest properties in East Melbourne, and the last intact urban estate within the City of Melbourne. Currently the official residence of the Archbishop of Melbourne, it has been the home of an Anglican Bishop, later Archbishop, of Melbourne since 1853. For a time, it was the residence of the State Governor.

Since 2001, Bishopscourt Garden has been maintained by volunteers dedicated to preserving its heritage. Established in 1848 by Bishop Perry and his wife, the garden has seen contributions from various residents and architects, including a design influence by Walter Butler in 1903. Over the years, volunteers have revitalized the space by clearing overgrowth, restoring historic paths, and caring for significant trees. Today, with restored brick paths, and a sustainable water system, Bishopscourt Garden stands as a living testament to Melbourne’s rich history and community spirit.

Your Ticket Includes:

- an introduction to The Johnston Collection by one of our knowledgeable Volunteer Guides

- an intimate tour experience of the Home Comforts exhibition with no more than 8 visitors per guide (groups of up to 22 are welcome)

- a tour of Bishopscourt gardens led by garden volunteers

- tea or Market Lane coffee at The Johnston Collection, served from Wedgwood fine bone china

- time to explore a wide range of exclusive gifts, books, and homewares at TJC Emporium