BACK in the late 1800s, a dog-tired worker would traipse home to this Fremantle cottage, looking forward to a hearty stew and resting his bones in front of an open fire.

Fast forward 100-odd years and it’s now a chocolate box cottage with a picturesque ‘secret garden’.

What was once merely functional, is now a $950,000 property on the highly desirable Bellevue Terrace, just up the hill from Freo prison.

Don’t worry, you won’t have to haul coal up the hill like a 19th century navvy, because this cottage has been lovingly restored. It’s still got all its yesteryear charm, but with plenty of mod cons to boot.

Highlights include the brick chimney in the kitchen, exposed beams, sash windows and a gorgeous clawfoot bath.

The Herald was expecting the cottage to be a bit dark inside, but we were struck by how amazingly bright and airy it felt.

There’s definitely a country cottage vibe with plenty of natural wood finishes and light Baltic pine floorboards.

This cottage is quaintness personified, but it’s not over done and there’s no lavender doilies or quilted toilet roll holders.

The Chook’s favourite part of the cottage was the secret-style garden at the back.

Walk out onto the spacious deck and relax amongst a bevy of gorgeous lush trees and bushes.

It’s the perfect shady arbour for a glass of wine and cheese board come summer.

Walk down the stairs at the end of the decking onto the path, flanked by established trees and bushes, and amble through the enchanting garden.

It really is fairytale stuff and there are five tiered outdoor entertaining areas, including one with a fire pit.

Keep going along the path and eventually you’ll reach a cute summer house at the bottom of the garden.

Another cosy retreat, where you could sit with a heater while the rain batters off the tin roof. The owners have a stylish armchair, cabinet and some potted plants in here.

And once you fancy some excitement just go out your front door and toddle down the hill to all the cafe, bars, pubs and restaurants in Fremantle.

You have the best of both worlds – the feel of a country cottage while being close to Freo’s CBD.

The home includes a brand new kitchen, front veranda, coloured leadlight, polished Baltic pine floorboards and a tool shed.

And if you want another building or home office, there are approved plans for a structure beside the outdoor deck.

Situated on a 323sqm block, the cottage is fully insulated with new double plaster walls and has an outdoor shower and plumbing for a bath.

Home open tomorrow (Sunday July 24 12.00pm-12.45pm)
From $950,000
15 Bellevue Terrace, Fremantle
Mark Brophy Estate Agent 9335 9800
Agent Jinny Henshaw 0418 908 858