Why This Heritage Guesthouse Was The Perfect Solo Getaway
home away from home
By Natalie McGowan | 24th July 2025The idea of solo travelling has always been a little daunting to me. Don’t get me wrong, I love my alone time, but being completely alone in a new city feels very different from taking myself out to dinner every now and then. But when the opportunity came up to stay at Miss Midgley’s, a heritage‑listed guesthouse on James St, I decided to push myself out of my comfort zone for the night. A mini solo vacation right here in Brissy, in a cute little pink guesthouse? How intimidating could it be?
With my overnight bag packed, I pulled up to the hotel on Sunday afternoon and was welcomed by the house manager, James, for a quick tour and a little history lesson. The building is 160 years old, with much of the original structure still intact — most notably, the thick stone walls that are now a striking design feature. Transformed into five charming, self‑contained (and dog-friendly!) apartments, the guesthouse is primely located on James Street – just far enough away from the main precinct that you feel tucked away, but close enough to wander down for a bit of retail therapy or a leisurely dinner.
After the tour, I was promptly checked into my room and left to my own devices. My solo staycation had officially begun, and what was a girl to do other than make a beeline for the private, heated pool just steps from her door? Towel slung over my shoulder, book in hand, I settled in poolside and was pleased to find I had it entirely to myself.
A couple of hours later, slightly sun‑kissed and very relaxed, I headed back to my room for a quick shower before wandering down James Street for what I told myself would be a little window shopping. Naturally, that plan lasted all of ten minutes (I ended up leaving with a fresh pair of jeans in hand). With the sun beginning to set, I made my way back to Miss Midgley’s, swinging by Agnes Bakery for a pastry to enjoy later.
Back in my apartment, I slipped into my PJs, ordered some takeaway, and sank into the blush‑toned couch for a quiet night in. Surrounded by the thoughtful interiors like the colourful artworks, soft hints of pink, billowing curtains, striking stone feature wall, and historic touches tucked into every corner, I felt instantly at home. When it finally came time to turn in, I drifted off almost as soon as my head touched the pillow.
When I woke up the next morning, I packed up, grabbed a quick coffee, and headed straight to work feeling a lot more refreshed and quietly proud of myself for stepping outside my comfort zone. And while I’m not quite ready to take off on a six‑month solo adventure just yet, my stay at Miss Midgley’s was a gentle reminder that it’s okay to slow down, embrace your own company, and treat yourself to a little escape… even if it’s in your own city.
