Sydney Walk: Botanic Gardens & Hyde Park

Our welcome to Sydney walk is an easy stroll designed to introduce you to the harbour via the parks and gardens. After a long flight, there’s nothing like a walk in the sunshine and fresh air to shake off the jetlag. Did you know that the Royal Botanic Gardens are home to over 5,000 plant species and were officially opened in 1816? As one of Sydney’s oldest public institutions, it’s more than just a garden—it’s a living museum of history and nature.

This journey begins in Hyde Park, an oasis in the heart of the city. As you make your way through the park’s century-old trees, you’ll feel the city fade away, setting the stage for your next adventure along Sydney’s historic eastern shore in the Royal Botanic Gardens.

This self-guided walk through the gardens lets you explore a beautiful slice of the city before you meet its famous sights.

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You will approach the Opera House and harbour through the lush pathways of the Royal Botanic Garden, offering you a stunning and memorable first glimpse of these iconic landmarks.

To truly savour this route, consider spending half a day to leisurely explore each attraction. However, if you’re pressed for time, you can still enjoy the highlights in just an hour or two.

Step 1 – Let’s begin at Hyde Park

While there are quicker ways to get to the Royal Botanic Gardens, I like to start this walk at Hyde Park because of its vibrant atmosphere and unique corridor of trees. With Museum and St James train stations sitting at either end of the park it’s easy to reach from most parts of the city.

Covering 16.2 hectares, and named after Hyde Park in London, this is the oldest park in the city.

Hyde Park is home to several iconic attractions that you should see while you are here, including the famous Archibald Fountain and St Mary’s Cathedral just across the road.

In its early days, it was the home of Australia’s first racecourse and a cricket ground. During World War I, the park was used as a recruitment and training ground for soldiers.

In the 1930s, it was the site of large protests against unemployment and poverty during the Great Depression.

The most striking feature is the avenue of trees created by the majestic Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla) that line the walkway between the southern and northern sections of the park.

Pause here to take in the picturesque views and perhaps witness a spontaneous event or gathering, which add to the park’s dynamic charm.

Let’s check out some of the attractions within the park

The Anzac Memorial

Start with a quick visit to the Anzac Memorial at the southern end. This memorial, designed by Bruce Dellit, is a solemn tribute to the Australian and New Zealand soldiers who served and sacrificed in World War I.

Its Art Deco architecture is not only striking but also rich with symbolism, representing the courage and endurance of those who fought.

It features a striking Art Deco design and houses a museum with exhibits on the war and its impact on Australia.

Inside, you’ll find the ‘Hall of Memory,’ a reflective space meant to honor the fallen, and the poignant ‘Sacrifice’ sculpture, which powerfully symbolizes the loss and sacrifice of war. Take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made by these brave men and women, and learn more about their stories.

Just outside the memorial is a sculpture called YININMADYEMI Thou didst let fall by Tony Albert.

This compelling piece features seven bullets—four standing tall to represent those who returned home and three fallen to commemorate those who did not. This modern work of art provides a contemplative space and a reminder of the continuing legacy of service.

The Archibald Fountain

Next up is the Archibald Fountain, a stunning centerpiece of Hyde Park, featuring an intricate design of mythical figures and animals. This fountain, designed by French artist Francois Sicard, was a gift to the city from J.F. Archibald in 1932 to commemorate France and Australia in during World War I.

Its design symbolizes the association between Australia and France, represented through figures of Greek mythology that stand elegantly against the cascading water.

It has since become a beloved landmark and popular meeting place. The fountain’s central figure, Apollo, the god of light, is surrounded by other mythical creatures, reflecting the blend of art, culture, and history that characterizes Sydney itself.

The fountain is an ideal location for people-watching, so grab a seat on the bench and watch the world go by for a few minutes.

St Marys Cathedral

Finally, across the road from the park is the St Mary’s Cathedral, a stunning Gothic Revival church that dominates the skyline of Hyde Park.

Standing as one of Sydney’s most iconic architectural landmarks, this cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of Sydney and is known for its impressive stained glass windows and intricate stonework. The twin spires reaching towards the sky are a nod to the timeless designs of European cathedrals.

Step inside to admire the grand interiors, where the light filtering through stained glass creates a kaleidoscope of colors. Whether you attend a mass or simply wander through, the cathedral’s atmosphere offers a moment of peace and reflection away from the noise of the city.

Step 2 – Art Gallery NSW

With free entry to the permanent collections, a quick visit to the Art Gallery is recommended for anyone with an interest in art. There is also a large cafe, interesting gift shop and clean bathrooms!

This recently expanded gallery, now a two-building art museum, offers almost double the space of the original gallery.

The transformation brings together art, architecture, and landscape through a new standalone building, a public art garden, and a revitalized historic site. You can explore dynamic galleries and site-specific works by leading Australian and international artists, all set against the backdrop of extensive outdoor spaces.

Enjoy a ‘welcome wander’ for a quick highlight—no bookings required.

Some notable Australian artists featured in the collection include:

• Sidney Nolan
• Arthur Boyd
• Brett Whiteley
• Margaret Preston

Check out Brett Whiteley’s painting “Balcony” and John Olsen’s “5 Bells” my two personal favourites.

In the Sydney Modern wing you will find the Yiribana Gallery with its excellent collection of indigenous art.

The gallery also hosts exhibitions that showcase contemporary Indigenous art and the work of emerging Indigenous artists.

Continue down Art Gallery road along the edge of the garden – but do not enter here.

Step 3 – Andrew “Boy” Charlton Pool

On your right is the Boy Charlton Pool, a beautiful swimming pool popular with inner city locals. The pool is currently being renovated but is generally open from September to April. It’s a great place for a swim in the city.

The pool is accessible and offers an Aqua Wheelchair and accessible bathrooms.

If you don’t feel like stopping, keep walking down the road until you reach the water.

Step 4 – Mrs Macquaries Point

At the end of the road is Mrs Macquarie’s Point, a favourite spot of the wife of one of the earliest of NSW.

There is a rock ledge in the shape of a chair here (look right on the point) which is actually where the wife of Governor Macquarie sat watching the ocean waiting for boats to arrive from England. It’s about a 15 min walk from the gallery to the point.

These days, Mrs Macquarie’s Chair offers one of the most iconic views of Sydney’s skyline, perfectly framing the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. It’s a prime spot for capturing photos, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon when the light is just right.

This site, just outside the Botanic Gardens, is open 24 hours a day, making it a perfect place for both sunrise and sunset photography.

Step 5 – The Royal Botanic Gardens

After soaking in the views from Mrs Macquarie’s Point, head back along the path and enter the Royal Botanic Gardens. This sprawling green oasis offers a serene escape amid the city’s hustle and bustle.

After you have taken lots of photos, head into the gardens and follow the sea wall around to the Opera House. The gardens host over 5,000 species of plants, making it a living museum of botany and history. 

If you have time to explore the gardens, here are some of my favourite spots:

The Cadi Jam Ora: First Encounters Garden – Signage here explains the way the land was used by indigenous Australians

The lily pond near the cafe – is a perfect place to relax with a drink and a sandwich, it’s also a good place for a spot of bird watching.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Calyx, a contemporary space showcasing a variety of horticultural exhibitions, where the fusion of art and science is presented through stunning plant displays.

Finally, my favourite sculpture, Mrs Macquarie’s Foll, where you can sit and stare out at sea just as she did.

Throughout the gardens, you’ll find numerous sculptures and art installations that add to the visual delight of your stroll. Every corner of the Royal Botanic Gardens offers something unique, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and photographers alike.

and leave time to photograph all the gorgeous old trees!

So there you go – our Sydney Welcome walk, an easy, mostly flat walk that can take an hour or a day depending on how distracted you get along the way.

Looking for more ways to stretch your legs in Sydney? Try one of these:

• Sydney Harbour Foreshore walk
• Taronga Zoo to Balmoral Walk
• Federation Cliff Walk
• Caffeine Crawl in Kings Cross
• A walk taking in the Pubs in The Rocks

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