Step inside Sydney’s past at Susannah Place – a rare heritage site in The Rocks where history isn’t behind glass, it’s under your feet, in the walls, and in the voices of those who lived here.
Built in 1844 and remarkably preserved through slum clearances, redevelopment and gentrification, Susannah Place consists of four humble terrace homes that were continuously inhabited for over 150 years. More than 100 working-class families – Irish immigrants, Greek shopkeepers, Norwegian sailors and more – made their lives here, leaving behind not just belongings, but stories of resilience, migration and community.
Through intimate guided tours, visitors explore re-created interiors, original belongings and oral histories that reveal the routines, resourcefulness and relationships that shaped daily life in Sydney’s oldest neighbourhood. Each room is a time capsule, offering an unvarnished look into how families adapted to a changing city.
Susannah Place is a story-driven, conservation-informed museum that invites you to connect with the real experiences of everyday people who helped build Sydney. It’s like opening a family album – full of real memories, familiar voices and echoes of our own stories.
Guided tours are the only way to explore inside the houses, with each tour offering a different perspective on the lives lived here. Before you leave, don’t miss the lovingly recreated 1915 corner shop – a nostalgic stop for unique souvenirs and treats.
Whether you're a local or a visitor, Susannah Place is a must-see for anyone curious about Sydney’s authentic past.