No. 1 William St, c. 1856
Sleeps 6 | Bedrooms 3 | Bathrooms 1
Heritage-listed No. 1 William St was built in 1856, at a time when Port Fairy was called Belfast and the second largest port in Victoria. Originally only comprising of two rooms, the cottage was built by stonemason Benjamin Bowyer with the help of his wife Mary Anne, who collected stone from the common in a crude wheelbarrow. The Bowyers lived in the cottage for three generations.
The two oldest front rooms feature beautiful period detail, such as colonial windows, high ceilings, and the arched window over the front door is typical of the Georgian style. Original arches, either side of the fireplace in the cosy sitting room, also remain.
The cottage sleeps up to six in three bedrooms; queen and double rooms, and a king single room with a trundle bed, made up as needed - catering for both couples or families. There is a well appointed, traditional country style kitchen, and continental breakfast provisions are provided.
No. 1 William St is located in Port Fairy’s historic precinct, sitting under an avenue of old Norfolk pines, and is a short stroll to South Beach. Port Fairy is a delight to visit all year round, but equally so in the depths of winter. Cosy up in front of the fire, listen to the wind howl in from the Southern Ocean, and reflect on how the Bowyers might have lived at No. 1 William St over 165 years ago.
Special Features
Cottage Garden
Antique Decor
Indoor Fireplace
Historic Town
Things To Do
The cottage is only a short walk from Port Fairy’s historic main street, with its restaurants, shops and art galleries. Feel yourself stepping back in time exploring the streets of Port Fairy with their rows of heritage buildings. The wharf on Moyne River, with its pretty array of moored fishing boats could be a scene from a painting - indeed, it’s been the inspiration for many artists. Enjoy dinner at Conlan’s Wine Store and grab a local bottle to go, or stay tucked up in your snug abode with woodfired pizzas from Bottega Toscana in Bank Street.
