HISTORY

Fitzroy Inn (1836 - 1868)
Oaklands School (1871 - 1888)
Oaklands Guest House (1921 - 1972)

Fitzroy Inn was opened in 1836 as a 'Traveller's Inn', the restored building remains operational after almost 170 years and provides visitors a unique window into Australia's colonial past.

The original kitchen in the cellars has been described by some historians as 'the finest example' of a convict-era kitchen remaining in Australia. The 'water-well' in the middle of the floor, hand cut into the shale below the building, a truly remarkable work of convict masonry and craftsmanship. The convict cell, used to hold prisoners on their way to Berrima Gaol, retains the original iron shackles and hand-turned bars which securely restrained its hapless guests.

During its years as the Oaklands School the Fitzroy Inn was an important educational centre. The very first tennis court in Australia was constructed in the grounds of the then, Oaklands School by R W Fletcher in 1875.

Cellar In the 20th Century the building was operated as Oaklands Guesthouse before becoming a private residence in 1972 known simply as 'Oaklands'.

In 1987, the property was purchased by current owners, the Aloi and Lovell families, and meticulous restoration work commenced in 1999. Attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the Fitzroy Inn's rebirth. Alterations and additions were undertaken to maintain, and at times reveal, the age and previous usage of the building.

The end result is the creation of a timeless structure that will live on in the 21st Century, a beautiful establishment featuring award winning dining and luxurious accommodation.