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'Pickett's Cottage' - Circa 1868 - oldest in Knox, close to Dandenong Ranges.

Photo gallery for 'Pickett's Cottage' - Circa 1868 - oldest in Knox, close to Dandenong Ranges.

Exterior
Living area
Room
Private kitchen
Room

Reviews

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 5

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Dog-friendly
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Air-conditioning
  • Barbecue

Explore the area

View map
Ferntree Gully, VIC
  • Place, Knox Leisureworks
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Cape Schanck boardwalk
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Koolunga Native Reserve
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Airport, Melbourne, VIC (MEL-Tullamarine)
    ‪56 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 5)

Bedroom 1

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 2

1 King Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Garden

About this property

'Pickett's Cottage' - Circa 1868 - oldest in Knox, close to Dandenong Ranges.

Enduring for 154 years “Pickett’s Cottage” is the last sole surviving home from a bygone era, which gives it the honour of being the oldest residential house in the city of Knox. Built in 1868, this unique Pioneer’s Settlers Cottage has been lovingly restored, respectfully preserving its unique features including open fireplace and wood stove. Located in close proximity to the Dandenong Ranges, the Cottage provides a truly unique experience. PET FRIENDLY

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Remove personal items and remove leftover food and drinks
Turn off the lights and lock the doors
Lock all windows
Keys back in lock box
Clean up after your pet
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 9741719
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has indicated that there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property, but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

About the area

Melbourne

Ferntree Gully, a neighbourhood in Melbourne, is home to this cottage. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Lakewood Nature Reserve and Dandenong Ranges National Park, while Puffing Billy Steam Train and Drum Theatre are cultural highlights. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at State Basketball Centre or Nunawading Basketball Centre. Practise your golf swing on a nearby course, or enjoy other activities in the great outdoors, such as cycling in the area.
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Map
Ferntree Gully, VIC

What's nearby

  • Knox Leisureworks - 3 min drive - 2.3 km
  • Cape Schanck boardwalk - 4 min drive - 1.9 km
  • Koolunga Native Reserve - 5 min drive - 3.1 km
  • Rod Laver Arena - 38 min drive - 46.5 km
  • Melbourne Cricket Ground - 38 min drive - 43.8 km

Getting around

  • Ferntree Gully Station - 3 min drive
  • Belgrave Station - 13 min drive
  • Melbourne, VIC (MEB-Essendon) - 51 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Ranong Town - ‬9 min walk
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬19 min walk
  • ‪24 Hours Kebab - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Jalan Alor Malay Kitchen - ‬14 min walk
  • ‪Ramen & Dumpling House - ‬3 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is 'Pickett's Cottage' - Circa 1868 - oldest in Knox, close to Dandenong Ranges. pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total).

How much does it cost to stay at 'Pickett's Cottage' - Circa 1868 - oldest in Knox, close to Dandenong Ranges. ?

As of 9 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at 'Pickett's Cottage' - Circa 1868 - oldest in Knox, close to Dandenong Ranges. on 11 May 2026 start from NZ$206, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at 'Pickett's Cottage' - Circa 1868 - oldest in Knox, close to Dandenong Ranges. ?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at 'Pickett's Cottage' - Circa 1868 - oldest in Knox, close to Dandenong Ranges. ?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at 'Pickett's Cottage' - Circa 1868 - oldest in Knox, close to Dandenong Ranges. ?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is 'Pickett's Cottage' - Circa 1868 - oldest in Knox, close to Dandenong Ranges. located?

Located in Ferntree Gully, this cottage is within 3 miles (5 km) of Cape Schanck boardwalk, Lakewood Nature Reserve and Dandenongs. Dandenong Ranges National Park and Dandenong Ranges & Knox Visitor Information Centre are also within 3 miles (5 km). Boronia Station is 23 minutes by foot and Ferntree Gully Station is 27 minutes.

Reviews

9.0

Wonderful

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 17 out of 25 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 25 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 25 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 25 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 25 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Check-in

9.4/10

Communication

9.0/10

Location

8.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Di H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The cottage was so cute and we had a great short stay there. I loved discovering all the little historical touches and memorabilia. It had everything we needed and our hosts were so easy to communicate with. :)
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Allison G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Everything about our stay was easy. From making the booking last minute, to communicating with the host, to relaxing and enjoying this cute cottage. We loved all the antiques and special touches that made staying here unique. The kitchen and bathroom are modern and provide you with everything you need. If staying in the area again, we’ll definitely rebook. Highly recommend
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful Stay

5 stars, very cozy yet with all the amenities. Highly recommend this location.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 19 June 2023
Thanks very much John for the great review. 👍
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dianne D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect couples getaway

Wonderful property, full of character and charm.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gillian P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Just what we needed

Thank you to Greg for great communication and easy check in process. Bed very comfy and lovely hot water.
Stayed 18 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gillian P.

Just what we needed
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sue S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great little cottage

Cottage was nice and clean with comfy bedding.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

2/10 Terrible

Joel O.

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Cockroaches, mice, overgrown yard/weeds.Property is on the corner of a busy roundabout motorbikes every night cars honking at eachother not to mention the blinds aren't the best so everyone headlights blare in.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 8 February 2026
We respectfully disagree with this review. The property has been hosting guests for over three years with consistently positive feedback regarding cleanliness, comfort, and the outdoor space. Guests consistently report how much they enjoy their stay in this historic property. Unfortunately, this review was left following a dispute relating to the condition in which the property was left resulting additional cleaning and replacement costs for goods taken from the property. This guest chose not to cover these costs which was disappointing. Pest control is professionally maintained, and we have no ongoing issues with cockroaches or mice. The yard is regularly maintained, and the location is clearly described in the listing. We encourage future guests to review our wider feedback history, which accurately reflects the experience we work hard to provide.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Simon B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

✅

Nice piece of history kept alive and great facilities.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Would definitely stay again

Quaint little house with so much character that suited our needs perfectly. It had everything you needed to fulfill our stay. Thank you.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Maarten&Claudette P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cute little cottage!

We were really happy with our stay. It suited what we needed, too bad we couldn't stay longer. Thanks Greg! Would stay again if the opportunity arose.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Greg R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Greg R

Very clean & quant house stayed 3 nights it was very comfortable and well positioned for what we needed.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Martin T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely, historic little home

Like stepping back in time but still enjoying the comforts of a modern day kitchen and bathroom. A real gem of a find
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alan F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Good

Happy with house. It fulfilled what we needed,
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Sue S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Returnees

Stayed here for the 2nd time on a trip to see family in Ferntree Gully. Nice to see a few new additions to the decor in particular the old school gaming console which was a big hit with our 9 year old. Greg is a responsive host. Thanks Greg
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

David G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Gateway to Dandenongs

For a visit to the Dandenongs this little 1868 two bedroom cottage was perfectly located. The cottage is well set up for a small family plus dog, although the safe backyard needs grass for animal and child comfort. The bathroom and modest kitchen are modern. It was an enjoyable stay; however the Dandenong region is 50 year ago villages with 2024 traffic and people - not really as relaxing as I’d hoped.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Lyn a nd Ben P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely old cottage

We enjoyed our stay in Picketts cottage, which is very nicely fitted out inside with a new modern bathroom and kitchen. The lounge room is typical of a small cottage but still plenty of room for 4 people, and the two bedrooms were spacious and comfortable. Out the back is a wooden patio with a small table and chairs where we enjoyed having our breakfast on sunny mornings and a drink in the evening. The back yard is well fenced, safe and perfect for dogs or children. Greg and Jodie were great hosts who communicated well and were always very helpful. Thank you for a lovely stay.
Stayed 11 nights in Jan 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Rosalyn C.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cute cottage experience

Overall it was a good experience, and wonderful that it was pet-friendly. Loved having the fire going! The dog could get under the house (beneath the deck) so that was challenging to get him to come out, and not to eat the seeds/nuts in the garden. One area of improvement could be to block it off. It would also be good if some spare linen and/or washing detergent could be supplied as there was only one towel per person.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Lynn B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication

Lovely Cottage

Clean & comfortable. Had everything I needed for my stay. Pet friendly allowed inside, secure back yard. Demi had a lovely time finding all the lost balls outside. Only problem for me from a small seaside town, traffic noise & closeness of driveway to roundabout, but if you are right in the middle of suburbia you have to expect that. Close to shops Dandenong Ranges all those lovely little country towns Belgrave, Emerald, Olinda etc. without being in the steep hilly areas.
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicole A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming cottage - accessible and pet friendly

Four week stay, this property had everything we needed. 1. Secure back yard for our corgi to play and toilet. 2. Accessible for mobility scooter which could park & charge in second bedroom, plus easy access shower. 3. Good size dining table in the kitchen doubled as a great study desk. 4. Easy access to Mountain Gate and Boronia shops. 5. Super comfy bed and warm doona, combined with the open fire and reverse cycle heating kept us warm despite the freezing weather challenging the cottage defences.
Stayed 34 nights in Mar 2023
Verified

6/10 Okay

Paula R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication

Nice little house

Well equipped with everything you will need but you have to buy all consumables and I had to get some cleaning products. Any basics that are there, are what have been left by previous guests. Bed is super comfortable with great linen but the couch/sofa is super uncomfortable. House is on a busy intersection so be prepared for road noise. Secure back garden area which was good for my dog but both back and front need work/tidying up. Not appealing spaces outside and there is no railing around the deck (small kids would be a worry) and there are nails sticking up from some of the wooden boards. Host was responsive and friendly in communication but with some TLC in the garden and a more comfortable and practical sofa, this place would be worth the money asked.
Stayed 13 nights in Dec 2023
Verified

6/10 Okay

Mandy M.

Liked: Check-in, location
The property needs a lot of general maintenance. The garden is not very dog or child friendly.very
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Myleen S.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Josh D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2024
Verified

6/10 Okay

Ingrid M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in
Disliked: Location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2024

About the host

Hosted by Greg Maudsley

Host profile image
Greg & Jodie live in Upwey Victoria with their young family in the beautiful Dandenong Ranges. The couple are passionate about local history and could not resist restoring Pickett's Cottage to its former glory so so it can be enjoyed by all.

Why they chose this property

HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Knox Historical Society’s Ray Peace said the property was believed to be built around 1868 by George Wilkes, who purchased the land from the Parish of Scoresby.

“The 249-acre allotment included the entire area between Dorset and Burke Roads, bounded by Blind Creek to the north and Burwood Highway to the south,” he said.

“The cottage was home to George Pickett and his family from 1868 on.”

Mr Pickett was born in London in 1821 and lived on the property with his wife Eliza and their nine children.

The house, located at 56 Edina Road Ferntree Gully, was originally built on a 248-acre dairy farm owned by the Pickett family. In 1955 the farm was sold and the land subdivided. Today, the cottage sits upon a 465 square metre parcel of land.

Mr Peace said George Pickett was a brickmaker by trade who chose the cottage because it was so close to the clay he needed for making bricks.

“Many brick buildings in Ferntree Gully from the 1880s, including State School no. 1307, and the Royal and Club Hotels, were built of George Pickett’s handmade bricks,” Mr Peace said.

“George Pickett senior died in 1892, but his business was maintained and expanded by his son, Alfred Pickett.”

The Pickett family was well-known in the local area with two other relatives being members of Ferntree Gully Shire Council.

Mr Pickett was a founding member of the local cricket club and in 1950 seven acres were set aside for sporting purposes on the corner of Burwood Highway and Commercial Road and named Picketts Reserve after the family.

Languages:

English

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