Stirling Cottage in Western Australia

"Nice place Big and lovely garden Can welcome easily a table of 10p The burgers and lasagnas are surely homemade and delicious The only dark point: the table has been served all in the same time"

"The food was authentic and delicious. Fresh seafood basket. Ambience and garden setting were great. Flowers and fruit trees outside the restaurant were amazing. Ample parking and restaurant were well kept and clean. This restaurant was an ex Governor's house. It was built in 1850."

"Have driven past many times and missed this beautiful spot. Historic site (Stirling AND May Gibbs) just north as you enter Harvey. Don't blink or you'll miss it. The Stirling Cottage Café is hidden behind as part of an historical site, with gorgeous surrounding gardens and dining built out over the Harvey River. Food was excellent and prompt. Seemed like home-made burger patties that were particularly tasty. Must be the great local Harvey Beef. My wife really enjoyed the nachos. Nice desserts/treats as well (the Pav was very light and flavourful). How could we have missed it all these years? It managed to be beautiful (as per attached photos) even in the peak of WA Summer on a very hot day. Reverse cycle A/C inside, but the historically replicated building has wraparound verandahs and other internal cooling and warming features that would make it a pleasure year-round. So glad we stopped by! And the whole historical site is charming and full of delights. Don't miss it!"

"Absolutely spectacular secret space right next to the main road (but you wouldn't know) it's like stepping into another part of the world. The gardens are incredible, the river is sublime to be along side, and having these as your backdrop for delicious and soul-filled food and drink makes this a very special place I'll definitely be back to. Thankyou so much guys for making this space so special."

"Captain Stirling's cottage in the outskirts of Harvey is worth a stop. Go for a coffee and a caramel slice and enjoy the view over the rose garden. There are plenty of seats even on a Saturday afternoon."

"On our way to Albany from Perth - 20 Oct. Stopped by the cottage for brunch. It was a cold day. Had the fish & chips and the beef pie. One of the best beef pie's I have eaten in WA. Chunky moist beef fillings and not overly salty."

"The Stirling Cottage Garden in Harvey, Western Australia, honors the history of Governor Sir James Stirling's original estate, where children's author May Gibbs lived as a child, inspiring Snugglepot & Cuddlepie; today, it's a heritage garden with a replica cottage, tearooms, and a May Gibbs Trail, showcasing its colonial past and natural beauty. Early History (Stirling's Estate) Governor Stirling's Grant: In 1836, Sir James Stirling, the first Governor of WA, claimed fertile land along the Harvey River, calling it "The Harvey" or "Korijekup". Original Hut: A simple hut was built for Stirling, later expanded by managers into "The Homestead," featuring hexagonal jarrah floors and a shingle roof. May Gibbs & The Gibbs Family Childhood Home: In 1885, the Gibbs family (including young May) bought part of the estate, living at The Homestead. Inspiration for Bush Characters: May Gibbs spent formative years exploring the river, bush, and wildlife, experiences that inspired her famous Snugglepot & Cuddlepie characters. Transformation into a Public Garden Replica & Gardens: The original homestead fell into disrepair, but a replica was built, and beautiful cottage gardens were developed around it. Today's Attraction: The Stirling Cottage Gardens now features tea rooms (Stirling Cottage Kitchen), orchards, fountains, and the May Gibbs Trail, allowing visitors to experience the heritage and natural setting that influenced Gibbs. Key Features May Gibbs Trail: A walk through the gardens highlighting her life and stories. Stirling Cottage Kitchen: Tearooms within the replica cottage. Natural Beauty: Landscaped gardens and native flora, especially vibrant in spring."

"Super lovely little hidden gem. So many locals recommended this place so I knew it was going to be great. This little cottage had so many good options on the menu including scones (which were crazy good) and toasted wraps. There were lots of kids running around which was lovely to see and the gardens are gorgeous. The coffee is also great."