What does it take to make a home in a new country?
Built by Irish immigrants who were among thousands of people who came to NSW through the assisted immigration schemes of the 1830s and 40s, Susannah Place became home to more than 100 families over almost 150 years. On this intimate tour, step inside 58 and 60 Gloucester Street and trace the journeys of those who started new lives here, from the Irish-born Cunninghames, who arrived in the 1840s, to the Sarantides family, who left Greece in the 1920s.
Through carefully re-created interiors, historical images and excerpts from the recorded stories of former residents, discover how successive generations reshaped these modest terrace houses – and were shaped by them in turn.
Join us to encounter diverse migration stories and the personal tales of hope and resilience that unfolded within these kitchens, parlours and gardens.
To book tickets:
From 23 April 2026onwards, refer to the times in the black information box on this page
Until 18 April 2026, please note the following tour times before booking via the button below
This has been a really special and personalised experience exploring local history. Susannah Place is one of The Rocks’ best kept secrets.
Accessibility
This event is not accessible. There are narrow, steep flights of stairs throughout the museum, and no air-conditioning.
The museum is a row of four terrace houses with small rooms and steep, narrow stairs. Visitors who join us on a guided tour will walk up and down about 79 stairs during a typical one-hour tour.
Access aids
For visitors who are able to walk around the ground floor but cannot manage the steep internal and external stairs to the other floors, iPads with images of these areas are available.
Wheelchair access
The museum is not accessible for people with wheelchairs.
Lifts and ramps
There are no lifts or ramps at the museum.
Visitors will be guided through the houses and invited to sit down and handle some objects. A detailed description of the physical spaces will be given in addition to sharing the stories of former residents. We welcome assistance animals, and have water bowls available on request.
Visitors with autism will be provided with an interactive experience and will be offered some objects to handle. Museum visits do not involve bright, flickering or strobe lighting.
When visiting in an attendant role, carers are offered free entry to the museum. Please call Bookings on +61 2 8239 2211 during business hours and to arrange a free carer ticket with paid ticket, or inquire when you arrive at the museum. Please ensure you have your Companion Card or carer card to present on arrival.
There are modern toilets, including accessible toilets, in the building adjacent to the museum. There are no toilets in the museum.
Please contact our Bookings team on +61 2 8239 2211 or bookings@mhnsw.au ahead of your visit if you require additional information or support.