Grand old homes of the heritage city….

Ever wondered why Ipswich calls itself the Heritage City? With over 7000 heritage-listed properties including grand old homes built from the late 1800s there's history and heritage around every turn.
15 Oct 2020
Wendy Hughes, Writer and social media smith

You might have heard Ipswich has a few old houses worth a look. Well, it’s true. And the visual feast of so many heritage beauties in one location will likely exceed any expectations you might arrive here with.

The blue house on Glebe Rd

This is a city that had surged to great heights by the late 1800s and into the turn of the century on the back of booming industries such as coal and rail and wool. Entire streets of elaborately detailed and incredibly grand mansions rose up as the town reached further into the hilly surrounds and dales.

A grand old home on Waghorn St

Those houses today – included in the city’s 7000-plus heritage listed sites – showcase another era while also bringing great character to Ipswich as a city.

Lakemba

Take a drive around some of the old inner suburbs such as Woodend, Coalfalls, Sadliers Crossing, Eastern Heights and Newtown – and get out and walk to take in the majestic architecture gems lining the streets.

The Palms

Some of the region’s heritage landmarks, once residential homes, are now the sites of flourishing character-filled businesses, including The Cottage restaurant in historic Darver Cottage, built in 1861, and Cumquat House, a B&B set in a fine early 20th Century example of Mission Revival architecture.

Kholo Gardens

Out of town, Woodlands of Marburg offers a wedding and event space, accommodation and café on the site where Thomas Smith built his stately home in 1890 and where he and wife Mary raised their 11 children. 

Woodlands of Marburg
One of Ipswich's grand old homes.
The Palms
Wendy Hughes Writer and social media smith
Wendy Hughes has meandered through a long career as a journalist, often with a fork in one hand.. or a glass. She spent several years as a food writer at the Sunday Mail and reviewed for various magazines. These days Wendy produces content and runs social media within the tourism, hospitality and travel sectors. Email [email protected]

Things to do

View more things to do

Tell your story

Got something special you’d love to see highlighted via Discover Ipswich? A new attraction, perhaps, or a restaurant or a venture that people are travelling for? Share your story with us so we can share it to the world!

Send Email