Annesley House, c. 1878

Sleeps 19 | Bedrooms 7 | Bathrooms 7

History

Traditionally home to the Gunditjmara people, the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape encompasses Victoria’s south west region, and is home to one of the oldest aquaculture systems in the world - established over 6,000 years ago. The area received a UNESCO World Heritage Listing in 2019 for its outstanding universal value. Paintings by local Aboriginal artists are showcased in Annesley House’s main entry foyer.

Since its beginnings, Annesley House has served both the people of Portland, and visitors to the town. An impressive example of Italianate architecture, it was built in 1878 and designed by architect Daniel Nicholson for medical officer Dr Brewer, as both his surgery and residence. A notable figure in Portland for several decades, he also oversaw the local hospital, and served as Portland’s Mayor.

The building was also a place of rest for visiting captains in the late 1800s while their ship was in port, and later, run as a popular seaside guesthouse from the turn of the century, owned by the entrepreneurial Wadmore sisters.

In the 1940s, Annesley House passed to Mrs Luers, the daughter of a local politician and poet, who had three great loves in life: playing the piano, the guests that stayed at Annesley House, and tending to the mansion’s beautiful cottage gardens. Many guests from near and afar came to Annesley House to enjoy summer by the sea. During the 50’s and 60s, dinner was served downstairs each evening, and guests would then head out to the cinema or a local dance. Young love blossomed, and happy memories were made.

In 2004, new owners undertook a significant restoration of the building, while keeping many of its original features and furnishings - including the grand cedar staircase, Baltic pine floors, ornate fireplaces, and even the servant’s bell. In 2022, Nicole and Peter Carr became the current owners & hosts of Annesley House. An active member of the community, Nicole grew up in Portland, and as a young girl would admire Annesley House as she walked past on her way to school! She feels privileged to be a part of Annesley House’s story, and is proud to share this special piece of Portland’s history.

Accommodation

Guests can choose from seven self-contained apartments, each named after people who were a part of the building’s history. With soaring ceilings and plenty of natural sunlight, each has been stylishly furnished with French and Australian antique furniture, Chesterfield leather lounges, smart TVs and greenery. Catering for solo travellers and couples, Wadmore, Baytree Suite, Rosalie’s Retreat, Captain’s Quarters, and The Grande one bedroom apartments all sleep up to two guests, with comfortable queen beds. Each apartment has its own unique features, with views of either the cottage gardens, heritage listed St Stephen’s church, or the sea.

Fully-equipped kitchens including a selection of teas, and coffee machines with pods supplied, allow you to cook your favourite meals during your stay. All apartments have a spacious open plan living area with books & magazines to unwind in at the end of the day, and the Baytree Suite also has it’s own cosy, peaceful sunroom overlooking the gardens and Portland’s historic rooftops.

For small groups of friends travelling together or families, the two bedroom House Keeper’s Cottage at the rear of the property was originally built to accommodate Dr Brewer’s servants, and retains a unique old world charm, with its own private rose garden & sunny outdoor area.

Accommodating up to five guests is Dr Brewer’s Apartment. Housed in his original consulting rooms on the ground floor, there are three bedrooms - with the large master bedroom featuring a grand antique French four poster king bed and original fireplace, queen bed in the second bedroom, and antique cast iron single bed in the third, perfect for children.

All accommodation options include complimentary Australian organic hair & body products, and beds are dressed with crisp quality cotton sheets and throw blankets.

Special Features

High Speed WiFi

Fully Equipped Kitchens

Cottage Gardens

Vintage & Antique Decor

Things To Do

Portland is Victoria’s oldest town, dating to 1834. Step outside the front door of Annesley House, and you’re greeted with history - across the road is Victoria’s oldest Anglican church, St Stephen’s, built in 1855 from bluestone. It’s just a stroll down the street to the town’s heritage precinct opposite the sea and Portland’s historic port, where ships have been arriving for over two centuries. Admire Georgian architecture, and stop in at cafes, art galleries, and boutique stores.

Clock by the Bay, in Portland’s original Post Office building, offers a menu with fresh seasonal produce - along with stunning harbour & coastline views. Portland is renowned for its fresh seafood - enjoy fish & chips for lunch overlooking the water, or in Portland’s delightful Botanical Gardens. First opened to the public in 1859, they are the second oldest gardens in Victoria. Discover the tiny bluestone curator’s cottage, first built in 1858…with a perfectly-placed picnic table out front. And learn more about Portland’s history at History House, Portland’s former town hall built in 1863.