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 – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 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
Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, Australia.
A stunning harbourside oasis located right next to the Sydney Opera House.
Key Highlights: Iconic views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, the Calyx (floral displays), and the Aboriginal Heritage Garden.
Opening Hours: Generally open daily from 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
Tickets: Entry to the main gardens is free.
Good place to spend for entire day. Trees, flower and many more.
Mamunur Rashid - 4 weeks ago
A peaceful escape that seamlessly blends scientific plant collections with world-class views.
•Best Photo Time: To capture the harbor without harsh shadows, try visiting in the late afternoon. The "Golden Hour" light hitting the Opera House from the garden path is spectacular.
• Accessibility: Most of the main paths are paved and easy to walk, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, which is a helpful detail to include for other travelers.
• Picnic Potential: Many visitors suggest bringing a snack or a picnic, as there are many vast lawns where you can sit and enjoy the harbor view for free.
Soha - a month ago
Definitely worth a visit if you are in Sydney! It’s free to enter and you can bring a picnic to enjoy the peace and nature.
Please remember to bring water. I can’t find a single drink tap in the garden, however there are always cafes in the garden that you can buy your drinks from (although I heard that they are not cheap).
Overall, a pretty good place to check out after your ferry ride at circular quay. It’s only a short walk away.
M C - a month ago
The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is easily one of the nicest places to go for a walk in Sydney. It’s peaceful, beautifully maintained and perfect for a relaxed stroll. The paths are easy to follow, the gardens are stunning and there are so many different plants and scenic spots to enjoy along the way.
Walking through feels calm and refreshing, especially with the harbour views and open green spaces. Whether you’re going for a quiet solo walk or spending time with someone, it’s such a lovely place to slow down and just enjoy being outside.
Definitely one of my favourite spots for a walk in Sydney.
Deniz Dalkilinc - a month ago
The gardens were stunning at every corner. So many beautiful flowers and plants. Morton Bay Figs were bigger than I’ve ever seen. Everything was so well landscaped. The ponds and lakes have so much bird life too. Ibises of course, but also ducks, swamphens, cormorants and herons. A wonderful attraction where you can spend as little or as much time as you want
James R - 2 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.
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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 -
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Photo Credit: VirtualWolf - cc license via Flickr
