Royal Botanic Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens are situated in one of Sydney's most beautiful locations
The 75 acre Royal Botanic Gardens are located on ground overlooking Farm Cove just south and east of the Sydney Opera House. These beautiful gardens are the culmination of nearly two centuries of hard work dedicated to the science of botany in Australia. The gardens are indeed the main centre for botanical sciences in Australia. Come and discover the amazing collection of plants, both native to Australia and from around the world in this magnificent setting.
The Gardens occupy the site of Australia's first farm which was started in 1788. Interestingly, due to poor soil and growing conditions, the farm was not a success, however the land continued to be cultivated. In 1816 Governor Macquarie founded the gardens as part of the Governor's domain, which later became the location of Government House. He appointed a botanist from the Colony to oversee research and develop the gardens.
The great majority of development that you see today took place under the direction of Charles Moore, a botanist from Scotland, between the years 1848 and 1896. During World War 1 and through the Great Depression, cut backs caused the gardens to regress some, however in 1959 after the gardens where designated as "Royal" they began once again to receive the attention and enhancements they deserved.
While you are welcome to explore the gardens on your own, there is a free guided walking tour every day at 10:30am and also on Monday to Friday from March through November at 1pm. These start from the information booth located just outside the garden shop at the Palm Grove Centre. You can also expect to see lots of colourful birds and wildlife in the gardens. The gardens are also a superb spot to just come and relax; a beautiful oasis from the surrounding city.
Nearby attractions: Government House, Sydney Opera House, Art Gallery of NSW, Customs House, Justice and Police Museum, and Museum of Sydney.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoRoyal Botanic Gardens Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Address: Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Phone: (02) 9231 8111
Official Website: Royal Botanic Gardens
Royal Botanic Gardens Reviews
Rated out of 5
An excellent place to spend a day or two relaxing.
So much to see.
Some excellent flora and fauna,ponds,fountains etc etc.
Plenty of bird life chirping away.
Some magnificent views of the opera house,harbour bridge and the city.
Must visit.
richard fleckney - a week ago
The Royal Botanic Garden is beautifully maintained and absolutely worth a visit. It’s incredibly peaceful, with plenty of birds—you can hear them chirping everywhere. It’s the perfect place to wander, unwind, and forget you’re in the middle of the city. You’ll also find great views of the Opera House. Whether you want to have a picnic or just relax, it’s an ideal spot to spend some time.
Angelina moon - a month ago
A vibrant spring scene featuring a variety of blooming flowers in a beautifully landscaped city garden. The atmosphere is fresh and lively, with soft sunlight filtering through blossoming trees. Colorful tulips, daisies, and cherry blossoms fill the garden paths. People stroll peacefully among the flowers, enjoying the mild breeze and fragrant air. The city skyline rises gently in the background, creating a perfect blend of nature and urban beauty.
Siew CK - a month ago
Stunningly gorgeous, expansive garden. There are so many beautiful flowers and trees, and the landscaping is so beautiful with the ponds, fountains, and sculptures. There is a beautiful view of the harbor from here, and there are a variety of beautiful birds that live here. There are plenty of benches and shady areas if you need to sit down, too. It is free to come here.
Sarah Harston - a month ago
It is a heritage-listed major 30-hectare (74-acre) botanical garden, event venue and public recreation area. Opened in 1816, the garden is the oldest scientific institution in Australia and one of the most important historic botanical institutions in the world. The Garden and The Domain are open every day of the year and access is free. Amazing variety of plants, trees, blooms and wildlife on the grounds. Very popular place, lots of tourists and locals. Mostly easy terrain, lot of easy walking. Wear comfy shoes, take water, wear hat, sunscreen. Beautiful place. Lots to see. Parking is hard to find - use public transport. Great place for photography. Toilets available. Cafes and restaurants available
s vivekananda - 3 months ago
Directions
| Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| L2, T2, T3 or Ferry | Circular Quay | 7 minutes |
| T4 | Martin Place | 3 minutes |
How to get to Royal Botanic Gardens by
By Train or Ferry: exit at Circular Quay Station and proceed west on Alfred Street then left on Albert Street and right on Macquarie Street. Enter the Gardens by the horse and rider statue at Bridge Street.
By Train: exit at Martin Place and walk east through the plaza to Macquarie Street; cross over and enter the narrow walkway just to the right of the Sydney Hospital Entrance. Continue east on the walkway the the pathway into the Garden.
Map & Instant Route Finder
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
Accommodations near Royal Botanic Gardens:
Photo Gallery
-
Pyramid Glass House and Tropical Centre in the Royal Botanic Gardens cc licensed photo by Hector Garcia -
Blazing Tulips in the Royal Botanic Gardens cc licensed photo by Richard Gifford -
Photo Credit: stu7009 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: wyncliffe - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: wyncliffe - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: wyncliffe - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: VirtualWolf - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Sydney Heritage - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Sydney Heritage - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: VirtualWolf - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: ellen forsyth - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: VirtualWolf - cc license via Flickr
