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Murray House
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Landmark
Murray House is one of the most significant colonial-era buildings in Hong Kong, boasting a remarkable history of survival and relocation. Originally constructed in 1844 in the Central district as officers' quarters for the British military, the building is a prime example of Classical architecture with its grand stone columns and shaded arcades. During World War II, it was occupied by Japanese forces and used as an interrogation center. In the 1980s, when the site in Central was slated for redevelopment, the building was meticulously dismantled into 3,000 numbered stone blocks and stored for over a decade. It was eventually reconstructed and reopened in 2000 at its current waterfront location in Stanley. This massive heritage conservation project saved the structure from demolition and gave it a new life. Today, Murray House is a popular destination for dining and shopping, offering visitors a blend of Victorian elegance and scenic sea views along the Stanley promenade.
- Location: Hong Kong SAR China
- Top sights: Skull Rock · Tin Hau Temple · Chung Hom Wan
- Nearby: Causeway Bay (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 17 | 18 | 20 | 23 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 26 | 23 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 40 | 31 | 85 | 112 | 247 | 294 | 216 | 253 | 195 | 69 | 32 | 26 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Murray House is a publicly accessible Victorian-style building in Stanley. The ground floor and surrounding terraces are freely accessible as they house shops and restaurants.
Typical hours
The shops and restaurants typically open from late morning until evening. The building itself can be viewed from outside 24/7, but interiors are only accessible during business hours.
Photography
Photography is allowed both outside and in the public interior spaces. Please respect the privacy of restaurant patrons.
Time needed
A visit to Murray House takes about 30 minutes when exploring the building and shops. Combine with a stroll through Stanley Market for a half-day outing.
Combine with
Murray House is located right on the Stanley waterfront, near Stanley Main Street and Blake Pier. Stanley Beach is also a short walk away.
Getting there
Stanley is best reached by bus from MTR stations Central or Causeway Bay. The bus stops near Murray House, just a few minutes' walk away.
Insider tip
Visit Murray House in the late afternoon when the evening sun bathes the facade in golden light. From Blake Pier you have a fantastic view over the bay.
Geography
Facts
- Originally built in 1844 in the Central District
- Comprised of over 3,000 numbered granite blocks
- Used as a headquarters by the Japanese during WWII
- Dismantled in 1982 and reopened in Stanley in 2002
- One of the oldest surviving public buildings in HK
- Features Classical columns and wide verandas
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Murray House (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about the history of Murray House?
It was moved stone by stone from Central to Stanley.
Where is it located today?
It stands on the Stanley waterfront on Hong Kong Island.
What is inside the building today?
It houses various restaurants and shops.
Is the building accessible?
Yes, there are elevators providing access to the upper floors.
What can you do nearby?
Visit Stanley Market or Blake Pier, located right next door.
Murray House: where is it located?
Murray House is located in Hong Kong SAR China.
Murray House: what is there to see?
Highlights include Skull Rock, Tin Hau Temple, Chung Hom Wan.
Murray House: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
Murray House: why is it worth visiting?
Murray House is one of the most significant colonial-era buildings in Hong Kong, boasting a remarkable history of survival and relocation.
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