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 – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM – 5:00 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
The Royal Botanic Garden in Sydney is an absolute gem and deserves a full 5-star rating. This stunning oasis offers breathtaking views of the harbor and Opera House, making it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and picnics 🌸
The gardens are beautifully maintained, showcasing a wide variety of plants and flowers. There's always something new to discover with their themed gardens and special exhibits. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, adding to the overall experience 🪴
Whether you're a nature lover, a tourist, or just looking for a peaceful retreat, this garden is a must-visit. It's a fantastic place to unwind and connect with nature right in the heart of the city.
Must visit - the fernery, herb garden and calyx
Roopa Fernandez - a month ago
It is one of the most beautiful gardens I have ever seen. It is a garden that is a candidate to become a forest if it were a little larger and densely wooded. You can see different and incredibly beautiful trees. People reading books, chatting, having picnics away from the crowds and noise of the city... You can take beautiful photos as you can see the opera house from a beautiful angle.
mustafa - 2 months ago
Love these gardens. Full of life and greenery, huge open space with plenty of places to sit and picnic, or hang out with friends with a coffee in hand. Some wildlife around, and it all feels so removed from the big city right next door. Highly recommend a visit if you’re around, it’s well worth the stroll.
Gabriel - 3 months ago
An absolute marvel and a gem that needs to be admired. In the midst of the Sydney city, it has rain forest, cafes, water views, majestic water bodies, trees, rare plants and birds. Must visit.
If you are a fitness freak this should be your running arena. Rare to see parks of this size in the middle of the city.
Rohit Revo - 2 months ago
This is one of the most visually stunning botanical gardens that I've been to. There are good views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, as well as a lot of open space. I could easily spend hours here!
Khoi Nguyen - a month 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.
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Photo Gallery
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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: Gunn Shots ! - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: stu7009 - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: wyncliffe - 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 -
Photo Credit: Andrew Beeston - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: VirtualWolf - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: VirtualWolf - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Sydney Heritage - cc license via Flickr
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