Capturing memories at Ernest Zacharevic's iconic 'Little Children on Bicycle' Mural, featuring a stylish touch with the Dorset Rex 1950's barrel-shaped bag held elegantly in hand.
Georgetown's charm extends far beyond its famous street art and heritage buildings. While tourists flock to the usual spots, the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site harbors countless secret corners that make for stunning photography backdrops.
Ready to explore? We've curated four extraordinary locations within Georgetown's UNESCO Heritage zone, each offering unique backdrops for your perfect shot. Start your journey at Seven Terraces and follow our guide through these easily accessible spots, whether you're walking the heritage trail or taking a quick Grab between locations.
Seven Terraces
Address: Stewart Lane, Georgetown, 10200 Penang
This stunning boutique hotel, once a row of Anglo-Chinese terraces from the 19th century, offers spectacular photo opportunities with its traditional Peranakan architecture. The hotel's central courtyard features intricate carved screens, antique furniture, and a stunning collection of Peranakan artifacts.
We shot in the reception of Seven Terraces, where the heritage atmosphere perfectly complemented our vintage collection.
The first picture features a 1950's floral fabric clutch - a quintessential summer purse. Its delicate metal flower clasp is accented with a diamanté centre, while the elegant gold trim dresses the frame with subtle sophistication.
The second picture showcases two distinct pieces. The front is a 1950's vintage Tyrolean NY clutch - a brass finger-held box bag with intricate rectangular cut-outs, topped with a decorative pearl cover. This small purse exemplifies the classic Tyrolean Brand design. Behind it stands an early 1940's leather clutch featuring a solid Bakelite clasp adorned with two filigree brass balls. Its simplicity embodies understated luxury at its finest.
Best Photo Spots:
The grand reception area with its traditional wooden screens
The central courtyard with hanging lanterns
The ornate staircase with its vintage tiles
The atmospheric corridor with antique furniture
Access Details:
Open to public viewing in common areas
Respectful photos allowed in the lobby and courtyard
For best access, consider having a meal at their restaurant, Kebaya
Best timing: 10 AM - 5 PM when natural light fills the courtyard
23 LoveLane
Address: 23 LoveLane, Georgetown, 10200 Penang
This heritage boutique hotel occupies a restored mansion dating back to the 1800s. The property features various architectural styles, reflecting Georgetown's rich cultural history.
We shot in the beautiful hang-out space, featuring the Faust & Moony 1980's clutch. This extraordinary piece showcases a patchwork design of various coloured exotic skins, framed by a metallic azure blue that perfectly highlights the colourful arrangement.
We also utilised one of the rooms to photograph the Dorset Rex 1950's barrel-shaped bag. This collector's item combines three different materials - black Lucite for the handle, top and sides; polished brass frame to hold everything together; and a well-proportioned signature clasp. The inner body that graces the frame is a black pleated fabric, creating a piece that's both bold and elegant in one striking design.
Best Photo Spots:
The historic entrance with its original door
The serene garden with traditional features
The heritage walls with climbing plants
The charming verandah area
Access Details:
Public access to common areas
Consider booking their heritage tour
Best timing: Early morning or late afternoon for optimal lighting
Reception staff can guide you to photo-friendly areas
China House
Address: 153-157 Beach Street, Georgetown, 10300 Penang
This unique venue spans three heritage buildings, connected by an open-air courtyard. It's known for its artistic atmosphere and architectural details.
We shot against the back room's huge wall artwork, using their unique art pieces as a complementary backdrop for our vintage treasures.
The first picture features two distinct pieces. In front, a bean-shaped Lucite clutch by Florida Handbags combines three elements - transparent etched leaf motif Lucite for the front and back covers, champagne-coloured Lucite for the remainder, and a sophisticated 3-ball mechanism for closure. Behind it stands a red velvet evening clutch by Elizabeth Arden, with simple curved lines and an elegant high-polished brass frame and clasp - the only decorations this timeless piece needs.
The other pictures showcase a 1950's Walborg metal link bag. Each gold or silver-toned circular disc links to another to form the bag's body, set against a gold backing for structure. An elegant chain strap allows for versatility, worn as a sling or carried as a handheld bag.
Best Photo Spots:
The rustic courtyard with its vintage elements
The art gallery spaces with rotating exhibitions
The traditional shophouse architecture
The canopy-covered outdoor seating area
Access Details:
Open daily from 9 AM to 10 PM
No entrance fee, but consider supporting the venue by purchasing from their cafe
Best timing: Afternoon when all spaces are open
Photography allowed in most areas
Cheah Kongsi
Address: 8, Armenian Street, Georgetown, 10200 Penang
One of Georgetown's less visited clan houses, Cheah Kongsi offers stunning traditional Chinese architecture without the crowds of more famous clan houses.
We shot in the Kitchen Wares Room, firstly featuring a 1930's wood beaded handbag made in Czechoslovakia. This piece comes with a Bakelite frame and clasp matched with a chain of the same material. These bags were tremendously popular in the 1930's and 1940's, available in various shapes and solid colours, ranging from coin purse size to these larger statement pieces.
The second picture highlights a 1950's stunning Walborg luxury evening clutch that continues to dazzle over 70 years later. Each diamanté is prong-set and sewn to others, piece by piece, meticulously handcrafted to form the purse. This is set into a metal filigree stamped frame with two large diamantés forming the clasp ends - quiet luxury, the vintage way!
Best Photo Spots:
The ornate main entrance
The central courtyard with traditional architecture
The detailed roof decorations
The peaceful side gardens
Access Details:
Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM
Small entrance fee applies
Best timing: Morning for best natural lighting
Permission for photography included in entrance fee
Tips for Visiting These Hidden Spots
Timing: Visit early morning (8-10 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) for the best natural lighting and fewer crowds
Etiquette: Always ask permission before taking photos inside buildings
Weather: These locations offer good photo opportunities even on overcast days. Carry water and an umbrella for Georgetown's unpredictable weather
Transportation: All locations are within walking distance of each other in the heritage zone
Planning: Consider creating a walking route that connects these spots for an efficient photo tour
Preserving These Hidden Gems
These secret spots remain special because they're not overrun with visitors. While sharing photos is encouraged, consider keeping exact locations private or sharing them only with other respectful visitors. This helps preserve the authentic charm of Georgetown's hidden corners for future explorers to discover.
By venturing beyond the usual tourist trail, visitors can capture unique moments in Georgetown's lesser-known spaces. These hidden gems offer glimpses into the authentic soul of the city, where every corner tells a story waiting to be captured.
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