Sydney is known for its beautiful green spaces but sometimes you just need somewhere a little off the beaten track to escape the hustle and bustle. Here are our top three gardens to escape the city madness.
Paddington Reservoir is one of the most recent additions to Sydney’s gardens and parklands having only opened in 2009 after years of restoration on the site. Once a vital part of Sydney’s water supply, heritage-listed reservoir is open for exploration or you can simply sit in the sun with a book. The restorations have created a space described as a blend of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon and the ancient Roman Baths of Caracalla. The award winning design maintains much of the original framework even salvaging original brick, timber and iron from the site.
251-255 Oxford Street, Paddington
Tucked away at the south end of Darling Harbour is the perfect escape from the city. Enter into this walled garden and forget you are in the heart of Sydney. This tranquil space is a meandering path around waterfalls and lakes, through lush greenery and temple inspired pavilions. Enjoy the walk on your own or take a guided tour, or simply enjoy some tea and dumplings at the teahouse overlooking the koi fish. Just watch out for the ibis, I think they nest in the trees here.
Pier Street, Darling Harbour
Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden
This not so secret garden in Lavender Bay was built by artist Wendy Whitely over 20 years. This now beautiful and serene patch of land was once derelict and owned by NSW Rail Corp. Thanks to the work of Wendy and fierce public campaign the land is now on lease to the local council in order to protect the garden and keep it open to the public. Within the garden are fairy grottos, community vegetable plots and some of the best harbour views you will find north of the Bridge. While this once secret garden does get pretty busy these days, don’t let that deter you from exploring the rambling pathways that snake up and down the hill.
Lavender Street and Harbourview Cresent, Lavender Bay
– Lara
When not enjoying a cocktail, Lara Bendeich loves spending her spare time finding beautiful spots to curl up with a book. Her adventures can be followed at @elleellabee
