ABOUT
Elizabeth Bay House was Sydney’s ultimate trophy home. Built between 1835 and 1839, Elizabeth Bay House was known as 'the finest house in the colony'. Designed by the most fashionable and accomplished architect of the day, John Verge, for the Colonial Secretary, Alexander Macleay and his family, Elizabeth Bay House is a superb example of colonial architecture in a magnificent setting overlooking Sydney Harbour. The house was restored and opened as a house museum in 1977. Elegantly furnished to the period of 1839 to 1845, the interiors reflect the lifestyle of the Macleays and present an evocative picture of 19th-century life. Its elegant rooms and fine proportions, sweeping staircase and lavish furnishings reveal the tastes and aspirations of its original owner.

THE DETAILS
DELICATE NATURE – this site is of significant historical value. Collection items including furniture have significant value and are not props. All furniture items are to remain in situ. Collection pieces cannot be sat or leant on. Care must be taken when moving your equipment in both internal and external areas. You cannot fix or attach to any elements on site including fences, trees or the building.

COLLECTION – museum objects, furniture and fixtures cannot be moved during your booking. Any movements are to be requested, approved, and undertaken by property staff in advance. Additional charges are applicable for collection movement; a detailed site inspection at least 7 days prior to shoot is required to request special permissions.

EQUIPMENT – all tripods, stands or metal base plates need to have protective elements between the sandstone, slate or other flooring on site and your equipment (e.g. mats, cut tennis balls, foam or bubble wrap).

PERMITS – exterior shots of the property can be made available whilst within our property boundary; outside of our site permits may be required via City of Sydney Council in the surrounding streets or for access to Arthur McElhone reserve.

PARKING – Bump in & bump out access to site is via Onslow Place. Limit x 2-3 vehicles onsite. As the property is located in a residential area, crew parking is limited. Parking permit applications via City of Sydney Council.
Built between 1835 and 1839 by the architect John Verge, Elizabeth Bay House is a magnificent example of colonial architecture with sweeping views of Sydney Harbour. Occupied by the Colonial Secretary, Alexander Macleay, and his family between 1839 and 1845, it was known as the 'finest house in the colony'. The house has exquisite 19th century furnishings and is now open to the public as a museum and function centre.

There are also two unconnected cellar wings beneath the house which are entered by steps on either side of the back door. The central rooms in the cellar have vaulted brick ceilings which support the stone flagging of the hall and saloon above.