Customs House Residence
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Customs House Residence

4.4
·19 reviews·Maryborough, Australia

Step into Maryborough's past at the Customs House Residence, exploring port history, wartime heroes, and enjoying local liquor tastings.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

More lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Customs House Residence

Customs House Residence

Best Time

Weekends

More lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into Maryborough's past at the Customs House Residence, exploring port history, wartime heroes, and enjoying local liquor tastings.

4.4
(19 reviews)

"A beautiful pub and a beautiful party of Maryborough history, with awesome historical experiences and delicious liquor tastings."

Vertical photo
TIP

Ask the Staff! 🗣️

Staff are super friendly and love sharing stories about the history. Don't miss out on their insights!

Beat the Heat ☀️

If you're feeling hot after a drive, staff are happy to offer water and air conditioning.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Maryborough's Port History

Maryborough's Port History

Discover tales of rum runners and customs agents in interactive exhibits. A true dive into the town's maritime past.

Wartime Museum

Wartime Museum

Experience incredible heroic stories from various conflicts, honoring the bravery of Anzac soldiers.

Liquor Tastings

Liquor Tastings

Enjoy delicious liquor tastings, a delightful way to experience local flavors after exploring history.

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Planning Your Visit

Immerse Yourself in History

Step back in time at the Customs House Residence, a key part of Maryborough's rich port history. Explore exhibits on rum runners, customs agents, and wartime heroes. It's a fascinating glimpse into the past.

Plan Your Visit

Check opening hours before you go, especially if visiting for specific events like the Mary Poppins Festival. Staff are known for being friendly and knowledgeable, so don't hesitate to ask questions!

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
More lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
During festivals
Why
Special events and activations
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sneak Peak of the Customs House Hotel Maryborough Cafe in conjunction with Jasper & Willow's Espresso Lounge.
@ijsproperty
3 likes • 134 views

Ask the Staff! 🗣️

Staff are super friendly and love sharing stories about the history. Don't miss out on their insights! Reddit

Beat the Heat ☀️

If you're feeling hot after a drive, staff are happy to offer water and air conditioning. Reddit

Mary Poppins activation at Customs House Hotel as part of Mary Poppins Festival 2025. #marypoppins #marypoppinsfestival #customshousehotelmaryborough #maryboroughqld #cherrytreelane #anythingispossible
@youronlyhopeevent
5 likes • 169 views
For Dean & Julie, we wanted to create a ceremony space that felt calm, timeless and full of love. 🤍 Set against the river at Customs House, the soft whites, layered blooms, and clean lines framed the most beautiful moment — when they said “I do.” ✨ Bride & Groom - Dean & Julie Styling and Faux Florals - Us! Venue - Customs House Photographer - @EVERNEW STUDIO Content Creator - @Kris | Wedding...
@beautifulweddings_au
18 likes • 815 views

History Buffs Rejoice! 📜

Plenty to read for in-depth info, plus interactive exhibits for all ages. Reddit

Wedding Venue Goals 💍

Beautiful riverside setting for ceremonies, creating timeless and loving moments. TikTok

The morning my sister became a bride 💍 Getting ready with the girls, arriving at Customs House — and the honour of standing by her side as matron of honour 🤍#weddingready #customshouse #bridesquad #weddingmorning #matronofhonor #sistersforever #LizzieGtobe #brisbane #wedding
@nlcrichton
25 likes • 735 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Ask the Staff! 🗣️

Staff are super friendly and love sharing stories about the history. Don't miss out on their insights! Reddit

Beat the Heat ☀️

If you're feeling hot after a drive, staff are happy to offer water and air conditioning. Reddit

History Buffs Rejoice! 📜

Plenty to read for in-depth info, plus interactive exhibits for all ages. Reddit

Wedding Venue Goals 💍

Beautiful riverside setting for ceremonies, creating timeless and loving moments. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(19 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Customs House Residence for its fascinating historical exhibits, particularly those detailing Maryborough's port past and wartime stories. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are frequently highlighted for enhancing the experience, and the option for liquor tastings adds a unique, enjoyable element. Some visitors found it a welcome respite from the heat, appreciating the accommodating staff.

"Such a beautiful pub and beautiful party of the Maryborough history"

Stephanie Brady

"We were so hot and tired after a long drive. Staff offered water and air conditioning. The museum is awesome and explained how the rum runners and customs agent stopped the smugglers. The war museum had some incredible heroic stories. As an ex military person; I was so proud of the bravery and commitment of Anzac soldiers from many many conflicts. Well done from just one Canadian. ."

John Kitchen

"The customs house offers a fascinating glimpse into Maryborough's history as a port town. The interactive exhibits offer something for younger people and plenty to read for those who want in depth info. The people staffing the Customs House were very friendly and helpful and loved to talk about everything there."

Michael Steer

What People Like

Fascinating historical exhibits
Friendly and knowledgeable staff
Liquor tastings

What People Dislike

Can get hot inside

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Customs House Residence is located in Maryborough, Queensland. It's accessible by car, and parking is generally available nearby. If you're arriving from further afield, consider flying into Hervey Bay Airport (HVB) and then taking a taxi or shuttle service to Maryborough. TikTok

While specific public transport routes directly to the residence might vary, Maryborough does have local bus services. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes and times. TikTok

Absolutely! The Customs House Residence makes for a fantastic day trip, especially if you're exploring the Fraser Coast region. You can easily combine it with other local attractions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours can vary, especially for special events like the Mary Poppins Festival. It's best to check their official website or social media pages for the most current operating times before your visit. TikTok

For general entry to the historical exhibits, advance booking might not always be necessary, but it's a good idea to confirm. For special events or tours, booking ahead is often recommended. TikTok

There is typically an admission fee for exploring the historical exhibits and museums within the Customs House Residence. Check their official channels for current pricing details. Reddit

Information on discounts for seniors, students, or group bookings is usually available on their official website. It's worth checking for any available concessions. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore fascinating exhibits on Maryborough's port history, including rum runners and customs agents, a war museum with heroic stories, and enjoy liquor tastings. Reddit+1

Yes, the interactive exhibits cater to younger visitors, making it an engaging experience for families. Reddit

Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions, especially in sensitive areas or during events. TikTok

Visitors often describe it as a beautiful historical pub and a significant part of Maryborough's heritage. The staff contribute to a friendly and helpful atmosphere. Reddit+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Customs House Hotel features a cafe, Jasper & Willow's Espresso Lounge, offering refreshments. TikTok

The venue offers liquor tastings, which are described as delicious by visitors. Reddit

The cafe, Jasper & Willow's Espresso Lounge, likely offers coffee, light meals, and snacks, perfect for a break during your visit. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The riverside setting offers beautiful backdrops for photos, especially for events like weddings. The historical architecture itself is also very photogenic. TikTok

For professional photoshoots or events like weddings, you'll likely need to arrange this with the venue management. The riverside location is a popular choice for ceremonies. TikTok

Generally, personal social media photography is welcomed. However, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography rules. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Customs House Residence is a great spot for families looking to blend education with a bit of fun. The interactive exhibits about rum runners and customs agents are designed to capture the imagination of younger visitors, making history engaging rather than dry. It’s a chance for kids to learn about Maryborough's past in a hands-on way. Reddit

Don't miss the war museum section, which, while sensitive, tells important stories of bravery that can spark conversations about history and heroism. The friendly staff are also a great resource, happy to answer questions and make the visit enjoyable for everyone. Plus, the cafe offers a nice spot for a break with snacks and drinks. TikTokReddit

History Enthusiasts

For those who love diving deep into local history, the Customs House Residence is a treasure trove. You'll find in-depth information on Maryborough's role as a port, particularly focusing on the intriguing era of smuggling and customs enforcement. The detailed exhibits provide a comprehensive understanding of this period. Reddit

The war museum is another significant draw, offering a respectful and detailed look at the contributions and sacrifices of soldiers. The friendly and knowledgeable staff are a huge asset, often eager to share anecdotes and further historical context, enriching the visitor experience significantly. Reddit+1

Couples & Event Planners

The Customs House Residence offers a truly romantic and picturesque setting for weddings and special occasions. The riverside location provides a stunning backdrop for ceremonies and photos, with the venue's architecture adding a touch of timeless elegance. TikTok

It's an ideal choice for couples seeking a venue that is both beautiful and steeped in history. The ability to create a calm, timeless, and love-filled atmosphere makes it a memorable choice for saying 'I do' or celebrating significant milestones. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Maryborough's Maritime Past

The Customs House Residence is more than just a building; it's a portal to Maryborough's vibrant history as a bustling port town. The exhibits meticulously detail the era of rum runners and customs agents, painting a vivid picture of the cat-and-mouse games played along the waterfront. Visitors can learn about the strategies employed to curb smuggling and the significant role the customs service played in regulating trade. This historical narrative is brought to life through engaging displays that appeal to both history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Reddit

Beyond the tales of illicit trade, the war museum within the residence offers a poignant and inspiring look at the bravery and commitment of Anzac soldiers. These exhibits showcase heroic stories from various conflicts, serving as a powerful reminder of sacrifice and duty. For those with a military background or a keen interest in military history, these displays are particularly impactful and evoke a strong sense of pride. Reddit

Adding to the experience, the Customs House Residence also offers delicious liquor tastings. This provides a delightful sensory dimension to the visit, allowing guests to sample local flavors and perhaps discover a new favorite. It’s a perfect way to unwind and reflect on the historical journey after exploring the exhibits. Reddit

Weddings and Events at Customs House

The Customs House Residence is a sought-after venue for weddings and special events, offering a picturesque setting that combines historical charm with natural beauty. The riverside location provides a serene and romantic backdrop, making it an ideal spot for ceremonies and celebrations. Couples often choose this venue for its ability to create a calm, timeless, and love-filled atmosphere. TikTok

Styling often features soft whites, layered blooms, and clean lines, designed to complement the natural scenery and frame the most beautiful moments of a wedding. The venue's aesthetic lends itself to creating elegant and memorable occasions. Whether it's a small, intimate gathering or a larger celebration, the Customs House offers a unique and beautiful canvas for any event. TikTok

Beyond weddings, the venue can host various other private functions and gatherings. Its historical significance and scenic location make it a distinctive choice for corporate events, parties, or anniversaries. Enquiries about hosting events should be directed to the venue management for specific details and packages. TikTok

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