A stone’s throw away from Melbourne’s shopping mecca and perched high above the Yarra River lies the sanctuary of Como.

Boasting one of Melbourne’s finest gardens, an inspiring historic mansion and an impressive collection of antique furniture, the property provides a glimpse into the privileged lifestyle of its former owners, one of Australia’s wealthiest pioneer families. Now 160 years old, a visit to Como reveals the life and times of Melbourne aristocracy and offers an insight to the transformation of the city through Gold Rush, Depression and War.

Wander the fountain terrace, enjoy a latte at Bursaria Cafe and immerse yourself in the history, luxury and inspiration that make Como Melbourne’s most glamorous location.

PLEASE NOTE: The house will not be open on Monday 23rd November 2009.

The gardens and Cafe Bursaria will be open as usual on this day but the house will not be accessible due to the dismantling of the Treasures in Trust exhibition.

Como's Golden Jubilee 1959-2009 - Support the Como Appeal

August 2009 marks 50 years of Como under National Trust custodianship. An appeal was launched on the 20th of August to raise funds to help restore Como and preserve it for another 50 years for future generations to enjoy. Click here to donate to the Como appeal and support this property for future generations to enjoy.

Treasures in Trust Exhibition - daily until the 22nd November 2009.

Find out about the amazing stories behind approximately 60 National Trust collection items in the Treasures in Trust exhibition. As part of the 50th anniversary celebrations of Como House being a National Trust property, this self guided tour through Como House will take you on a curious journey of National Trust treasures that are beautiful, historic, eclectic and curious. The exhibition includes diverse objects such as the rarely-seen Robert Hoddle watercolours of Victoria from the 1830's, memorabilia of Joan Lindsay who wrote Picnic at Hanging Rock and breathtaking watercolour depictions of Como and its surrounds by Arthur and Penleigh Boyd.

Public programs available during the exhibition include:

- Floor Talks - a behind the scenes tour of the exhibition with a curator. Every second Wednesday at 11.00am (until 11th November).

- Time takes its Toll - Caring for the Como Collection Talk Series - a series of talks that take you into the delicate world of caring for precious objects, artworks and textiles. 23 Sep, 21 Oct and 11 Nov at 2pm. Download this form for further details.

- Trash or Treasure Marketplace - Sunday 18 October from 10am to 4pm

- Gardener's Talk - Explore another Trust treasure, Como's Garden. Every second Wednesday at 2pm (until 11 November).

Como House is open daily from 10am till 4pm. Self-guided tours through the house are available during this time. Standard guided tours of Como House are also available at 11.00am, 1.00pm and 3.00pm during the period of the exhibition. Bookings are not required for groups of seven or less. Call 9827 2500 for any further information.