Cadman’s Cottage is a sandstone heritage building at 110 George Street in The Rocks, opposite the Overseas Passenger Terminal and close to Sydney Harbour. Built in 1816, it is Sydney’s oldest surviving residential building and a rare example of early colonial architecture. John Cadman, superintendent of Government Boats, lived here from 1827 to 1844. The cottage is currently reported closed, so plan to view it from outside; its garden and harbour-side setting still make it a worthwhile stop while walking between The Rocks and Circular Quay.
A cottage beside the harbour
Built in 1816, Cadman’s Cottage dates to the early years of the Sydney colony. The two-storey sandstone house was designed in the Colonial Georgian style by Francis Greenway, Sydney’s first government architect. It originally stood beside the water, near the Government Dockyard.
The building was made for government boatmen and their crews. Its location suited their work ferrying people and goods across Sydney Harbour. The shoreline has since changed, but the cottage remains close to the harbour and the Overseas Passenger Terminal.
John Cadman and the building’s later use
John Cadman, superintendent of Government Boats, lived in the cottage from 1827 until his retirement in 1844. He had been transported to New South Wales after being convicted of stealing a horse. The building takes its name from him.
Cadman’s Cottage later served other public roles, including as headquarters for the Sydney Water Police and as a sailors’ home. It has been protected as a heritage site since 1972. Its surviving sandstone walls and modest scale offer a tangible link to the early development of The Rocks.
Planning a visit
The cottage is at 110 George Street in The Rocks, opposite the Overseas Passenger Terminal. It is an easy stop on a walk from Circular Quay, with Campbell Cove also nearby. The garden provides a place to pause beside the historic building.
Access has been reported as closed, with the cottage visible only from outside. Check current information before travelling if you hope to enter. Free tours have also been reported as starting here, but confirm whether one is available on the day. History-focused walks, including ghost tours, may include the cottage and its surrounding area.
FAQ
Can you go inside Cadman’s Cottage?
The cottage has been reported closed, with visitors able to see it from outside. Check current access information before your visit.
How old is Cadman’s Cottage?
It was built in 1816 and is Sydney’s oldest surviving residential building.
Where is Cadman’s Cottage?
It is at 110 George Street in The Rocks, opposite the Overseas Passenger Terminal and near Sydney Harbour.
How long should you allow for a visit?
Allow around 15 to 30 minutes to see the cottage and its garden from outside. Add time if you are joining a tour or walking to nearby Circular Quay.
