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Sydney Food

Barbie High Tea at the Shangri-La Hotel Sydney

June 25, 2018 / CBD, Sydney, Sydney Food, The Rocks / 0 comment

Oh la la it’s a fancy outing today! It’s off to the classy Shangri-La Hotel Sydney in the Rocks for a very pink high tea with friends. From June 15 – 29 2018, the Shangri-La Hotel Sydney is hosting a very special Barbie High Tea, created by their executive pastry chef, Anna Polyviou.

Anna Polyviou is often called the Punk Princess of Pastry, and with her bright pink mohawk she is the perfect poster girl for a new Barbie cookbook, which Polyviou has created in collaboration with the iconic Barbie brand and The Australian Woman’s Weekly.

The cookbook is a fantastic edition to a young chef’s collection, containing a combination of recipes that range from simple enough for kids to do either on their own or with help from adults, to some harder ones that definitely need adult intervention, but that are so imaginative that they will inspire kids to create their next birthday party around the designs.

Our young Barbie (and Anna Polyviou!) fans were keen to try some of the special recipes, which are reflected in the Barbie High Tea.

Each young guest is given their own Barbie Cookbook to take home, which our three discerning diners perused eagerly while waiting for their tea, choosing which recipe they would try at home first.

High teas are best experienced with friends, and for this special Barbie outing, we invited our usual high tea accomplices, with whom we’ve been sampling sugary treats in fancy frocks for quite a few years now. There is something so special about getting dressed up and having tea in delicate china cups that little girls just adore, and it’s a really wonderful occasion for both us mums and the kids.

The three-tiered silver stands arrived quickly, brimming with so much pink that the girls’ eyes popped out of their heads.

It’s clear that Polyviou knows her target audience well, and the creative, beautiful AND delicious menu was 100% on pointe with this young audience who are drawn to all things pink and sparkly.

Adults and kids can both order the Barbie high tea. If you’re dining with a few other adults or kids however, you might want to consider ordering the Barbie tea for the kids and the traditional high tea for the adults, and then trying a bit of everything! You can read about our delicious experience trying the traditional high tea here.

Barbie High Tea

Barbie Shake

Coconut Raspberry jelly pops
Rocky road cup
Finger bun doughnuts
Rainbow cupcake

Cheesy chicken strips
Vegetable frittata
Ham cheese stars

(As vegetarians were given a slightly different savoury option, with a deconstructed egg sandwich, beetroot tart and cream cheese and cucumber sandwiches.)

The savouries are a great kid-friendly twist on a traditional high tea. Super accessible for even the fussiest of kids to enjoy.

The sweet treats were a hit, both visually and also to eat. The rainbow cupcakes were the fan favourite, with the added bonus of sprinkles spilling out of the middle when they were bitten into.

Mine and my friend’s favourite dessert was the rocky road cup – a mix of packet chips and lollies covered in chocolate, it was so nostalgic of our childhoods that we just kept going back for more. Note: the rocky road cup does contain nuts.

Another favourite was the Barbie shake. The strawberry milkshake base on its own was delectable, and with the addition of the Persian fairy floss and lollies it was just a mouth-watering treat that was devoured by all parties.

The Barbie High Tea is available from 15 June to 29 July 2018 at $45 per child. It includes a complimentary Australian Women’s Weekly Barbie Cookbook which features some of Polyviou’s Barbie inspired creations. For adults, it is priced at $55 per person with a glass of sparkling and at $65 per person with a glass of Champagne.

The Barbie High Tea is available daily at The Lobby Lounge, between 11:30am and 1:30pm and between 1:45 and 3:45 pm.

Shangri-La Hotel Sydney
176 Cumberland Street,
The Rocks, Sydney, NSW 2000
Phone: (02) 9250 6000
Prices: $$$
Bookings are essential. Please call (61 2) 9250 6144 or email dine.slsn@shangri-la.com
Get more information on the Barbie High Tea here.
Get Directions

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids here.

Find things to do in Sydney for free here.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney here.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney here.

Find the best high teas in Sydney here.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney here.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day here.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney here.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney here.

Thank you to the Shangri-La Hotel Sydney for hosting us for this very special high tea. All opinions and sugar-high kids are our own.

Where To Find Cheap Parking In The Sydney CBD

May 17, 2018 / CBD, Sydney / 0 comment

Where To Find Cheap Parking in the Sydney CBD

Finding cheap parking in Sydney is like a competitive sport. The city is littered with parking stations and metered parking zones, but they are not made equal. Some are cheaper than others and some are in sneaky locations that not many people know about. While I prefer to take public transport where possible, I will often drive into the city for events at night and on weekends when I have the kid in tow. Over the years I’ve found what I think are best places for cheap parking in Sydney CBD.

Note: these great rates are for after 5pm and weekends. During the week the Sydney CBD parking prices are outrageous so I never take the car.

The best early bird parking options are the Sydney Opera House and Darling Square car parks. See below for more details.

I highly recommend booking parking in parking stations in advance where possible (called “Book a Bay” on the websites) as they are almost always a few dollars cheaper when you book online. I have noted with each parking station if they do not offer an added discount when booking online.

While the prices below were correct at time of writing this article they are subject to change, so please check the website before going if you are concerned about price increases.

Attractions: Museum of Contemporary Art, Vivid Sydney CBD

Location: Circular Quay, The Rocks

There are three parking garages that have decent evening rates from 5pm Mon-Fri. Note: Sat & Sun are much pricer, although they are available at a discount when booked in advance through the websites below.

Gateway Car Park
25 Reiby Pl, Sydney
Night: Mon – Fri $15.00
Entry after 5pm, exit before 6am following day
Weekend: Sat – Sun $20.00

Online

155 George St Car Park
155 George Street, The Rocks

Night: Mon – Fri $15.00
Entry after 5pm and exit before close.
Weekend: Sat – Sun $20.00
Online

Clocktower Car Park
55 Harrington Street, The Rocks

Night: Mon – Fri $10.00
Entry after 5pm, exit before car park closes
Weekend: Sat – Sun $25.00

Online

Attractions: SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Madam Tussauds Sydney

Location: Darling Harbour

Car Park: Darling Park Car Park
201 Sussex Street, Sydney

Night: Mon – Wed $10.00, Thurs – Fri $12.00
Entry after 5pm, exit before 6am the next day
Weekend: Sat – Sun $12.00
Online

Attractions: Darling Quarter playground, Monkey Baa Theatre

Location: Darling Quarter

Darling Quarter Car Park
1-11 Harbour Street, Sydney

Night: Mon – Wed $12.00, Thu – Fri $15.00, Sat – Sun $12.00
Entry after 5pm, exit before 6am the next day
Weekend: Sat – Sun $15.00
Online

Attraction: Maritime Museum, Star City Casino, Lyric Theatre

Location: Pyrmont

The Star
80 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont

This parking garage has odd hours as it’s underneath a casino, so read carefully! The best rates are during the day.

11:00pm to 5:00pm
Monday to Thursday: $15
Friday to Sunday: $20
Public Holiday: $20

5:00pm to 11:00pm
Monday to Thursday: $20
Friday to Sunday: $25
Public Holiday: $25

No discounts available online

Online

Attractions: QVB and shopping

Location: CBD Centre

QVB Car Park
I suggest parking here after 5pm only. Weekends are not discounted.
Night: Sun – Wed $12.00, Thu – Sat $15.00
Entry after 5:00pm & exit before car park closes

No discount available online.

Online

Citipark Car Park
431 Kent Street, Sydney

Night: Mon – Wed $9.00, Thu – Fri $12.00, Sat – Sun $9.00
Entry after 5pm, exit before 6am the next day
Weekend: Sat – Sun $12.00

Online

Attraction: Seeing a show at the Capitol Theatre

Location: CBD near Central Station

Goulburn Street Car Park
101 Goulburn Street, Sydney

Night: Mon – Fri after 5pm $10
Weekends:Sat, Sun & public holidays $12.00

No discount available online
Online

Attraction: Sydney Tower Eye, Pitt Street shopping, AGNSW, Royal Botanic Gardens

Location: The Domain

The Domain Car Park
St Mary’s Road, Sydney

Night: Mon – Fri $12.00
Entry after 5pm, exit before 12am
Weekend: Sat – Sun $12.00

Online

Attraction: Barangaroo

Location: Barangaroo

Barangaroo Reserve Car Park
Towns Place, Sydney

Night: Mon – Fri $10.00
Entry after 5pm, exit before 12am
Weekend: Sat – Sun $12.00

Online

Attraction: ICC Sydney Theatre, Powerhouse Museum, Chinese Garden of Friendship

Location: Darling Square

Darling Square Car Park
Zollner Circuit, Haymarket

Cheapest parking in the city and best early bird parking rate. My number one find for cheap parking in Sydney CBD.

Early Bird: Mon – Fri $16.00
Entry between 6am & 9.30am, exit between 3pm & 7pm
Night: Mon – Sun $3.00, Event Night* $19.00
Entry after 5pm, exit before 6am following day
Weekend: Sat – Sun $9.00, Event Day* $19.00

Online

Attraction: Chinatown, Sydney’s Paddy’s Markets

Location: Chinatown

Market City Car Park
2 Quay Street, Haymarket
Night: Sun-Thur $11.00, Fri-Sat $13.00
Entry after 5pm
No discounted weekend day parking

Online

Attraction: Sydney Opera House

Location: Bennelong Point

They have an amazing early bird day rate and weekend rates, but evenings are expensive. Book a Bay online for a good discount. We often park here for shows on weekends and it’s a great deal – one of my best finds for cheap parking Sydney CBD.

Early Bird: Mon – Fri $16.00
Entry between 6am and 10am, exit between 3pm and 7:30pm
Not valid Public Holidays

Weekend: Sat – Sun $15.00

Online

Have I missed anything? Please tell me if You have a cheap parking in Sydney CBD find that I can add to the list.

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids here.

Find things to do in Sydney for free here.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney here.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney here.

Find the best high teas in Sydney here.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney here.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day here.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney here.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney here.

Boronia House High Tea, Sydney

May 8, 2018 / High Tea, Mosman, North Shore, Sydney, Sydney Food / 0 comment

Dine inside a Victorian mansion built in 1885 at Boronia House, situated on Sydney’s North Shore. We experienced the Boronia House High Tea when celebrating a wedding at the venue. The historic Boronia House, surrounded by a beautiful garden, is the perfect location for a special function such as a baby or bridal shower, special birthday party or wedding reception.

The Classic High Tea Experience includes a selection of light breads, sophisticated savoury bites, house-made scones with double cream and jam, desserts and cakes, served with a choice of a T2 tea or coffee.

Kids aged 3-12 can enjoy the Little Ladies High Tea, which includes ham and cheese finger sandwich, scone with cream and jam, fairy bread, Remi’s homemade chocolate chip cookie, chocolate fondue with fresh fruit, homemade sweet treat of the day, mini pancake stack with maple syrup and a choice of T2 tea, hot chocolate, iced chocolate, fruit juice, pink lemonade or soft drink.

A Devonshire Tea is also available and includes six bites per person; two finger sandwiches, two scones with cream & jam, two dessert bites and a choice of T2 tea, coffee, hot chocolate, iced chocolate or soft drink.

Boronia House
624 Military Rd, Mosman
Online

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids here.

Find things to do in Sydney for free here.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney here.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney here.

Find the best high teas in Sydney here.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney here.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day here.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney here.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney here.

Bitton Oatley: Sydney’s Best Cafes For Families

April 23, 2018 / Oatley, Southern Sydney, Sydney, Sydney Food / 0 comment

We have been fans of the flagship Bitton cafe in Alexandria for years, so were extremely happy to hear about the new Bitton Oatley site when it recently opened. Both Bitton cafes offer a French-inspired menu and share the same philosophy of “five star gourmet at café prices in a friendly atmosphere”.

The new Bitton Oatley has a huge outdoor area wth a little play area and some cute landscaping features to discover. The menus are seasonal and baristas serve Grinders coffee.

The family-friendly atmosphere of Bitton Alexandria is mirrored here, and on our mid-week visit we see mums and bubs enjoying babyccinos in the spacious yard.

The cafe is extremely accessible for strollers and also wheelchairs. There is a flat path that leads from the front all around the back and directly into the back of the cafe and yard. There is also clear access to the bathrooms and a large family and wheelchair accessible bathroom with a change table and even a few spare nappies and wipes.

I also appreciated how easy it was to park at the cafe! There is plenty of street parking available on the site streets.

There is a dedicated kids’ menu featuring Scrambled Eggs, Crispy Bacon and Toast, French Crêpes, Steak and Fries, Chicken & Mushroom Pasta, Crumbed Fish Fillets and a Kids Beef Burger (French Crêpes pictured above).

We ordered Breakfast Salad Bowl (Soft Boiled Egg, Avocado, Quinoa, Pistachios Baby Heirloom Tomatoes, Kale, Crispy Bacon, Baby Spinach, GF, $17) and the Tomato and Goat’s Cheese Sourdough Toast with Basil Oil ($17).

I always know what to expect when we dine at Bitton and this time was no exceptions. Delicious food made with the freshest of ingredients and served quickly. Impeccable and friendly service. A thoroughly enjoyable experience, every single time.

This brunch was made even sweeter by the surprise gift of two free mini creme brulees for dessert. Yum!

Bitton Oatley
119a Mulga Rd, Oatley
Hours: Tues & Sun 7am-4pm, Wed-Sat 7am-9pm, Mondays closed.
Phone: 02 9570 5777
bittongourmet.com.au

Get directions

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids here.

Find things to do in Sydney for free here.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney here.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney here.

Find the best high teas in Sydney here.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney here.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day here.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney here.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney here.

26 Of The Best Museums In Sydney

March 26, 2018 / CBD, Indoor Play, Museums, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Sydney is renowned for it’s natural beauty, but it’s also full of history and culture. We love to spend our weekends learning about art, anthropology and archaeology, particularly when the weather is not so favourable outside. Check out the best museums in Sydney below.

The Best Museums In Sydney

Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA)

Wander through galleries of exciting modern art from leading Australian and international artists at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia (MCA). Grab a coffee at the rooftop cafe and sculpture terrace and enjoy the stunning harbour view.

The MCA runs lots of free and small donation activities for kids throughout the year too, from their monthly Sunday Family Fun Days to a drop in activity room and school holiday crafts.

MCA
The Rocks
General Admission is free
australianmuseum.net.au

Australian National Maritime Museum (ANMM)

The Australian National Maritime Museum (ANMM) is Australia’s national centre for maritime collections, exhibitions, research and archaeology. Grab a free ticket from the front desk for admission into the permanent indoor galleries and under 5s play area “Mini Mariners”.

For entry into our fave spot, the “Kids on Deck” craft area, visiting exhibitions and the ships, a paid ticket is required. The ANMM runs lots of programs for kids all year round including live shows, “Mini Mariners” for kids aged 2-5 and the cabinet of curiosity that contains all kinds of wonders for kids to touch, like the tooth of a blue whale. Check their calendar for upcoming events and look out for when Bailey, the museum dog, is scheduled to make an appearance.

Australian National Maritime Museum
2 Murray St, Sydney
anmm.gov.au

Art Gallery of NSW (AGNSW)

Stroll through five levels of masterpieces including an extensive collection of Aboriginal art, European masters, Asian art and visiting exhibitions. The general galleries at the Art Gallery of NSW (AGNSW) are all free to enter.

Children can use online booklets to explore artworks or download free audio tours that have been created just for kids. The AGNSW frequently runs free activities for kids on Sundays and school holidays.

Get info on visiting the AGNSW with kids here.

Art Gallery of NSW
The Domain
General Admission is free
artgallery.nsw.gov.au

Australian Museum (currently closed for renovations)

The oldest museum in Australia, The Australian Museum has excellent exhibitions focusing on natural history and anthropology.

When it opened in 1897, The Australian Museum became the first museum in Australia, with an international reputation in the fields of natural history and anthropology. The museum’s dinosaur exhibition, containing 10 complete dinosaur skeletons and eight life-sized models is very popular with kids.

The dedicated Kidspace area is a hit with littles aged five and under (as well as the slightly bigger kids who still like to sneak in!) while older kids will love the Search & Discover research centre.

The Australian Museum also runs family-focussed programs year round for kids aged 9 months and up. School aged kids always have a large range of science-based activities to choose from during the school holidays.

Read more about visiting the Australian Museum here.

Australian Museum
1 William St, Sydney
Admission required a fee
australianmuseum.net.au

The Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences (MAAS)

The MAAS is Australia’s contemporary museum for excellence and innovation in applied arts and sciences. Their venues include Powerhouse Museum, Sydney Observatory and Discovery Centre.

Powerhouse Museum

An interactive art and science museum located in Ultimo.

The museum’s collection encompasses science, technology, design and decorative arts, engineering, architecture, health and medicine, fashion and contemporary culture.

Locomotive No. 1, the first steam locomotive to haul a passenger train in New South Wales, is a popular drawcard just inside the museum’s entrance, as is the ever-popular interactive Wiggles Exhibition. More on the Wiggles exhibition here.

Throughout the year the Powerhouse Museum hosts temporary exhibitions plus a wide range of kid-focussed activities and workshops with a strong focus on science and coding, particularly during the school holidays. The focus on science and technology in a very family-friendly environment makes the Powerhouse Museum a top choice for things to do with kids in Sydney. Check out their calendar for upcoming events.

Powerhouse Museum
500 Harris St, Ultimo
maas.museum/powerhouse-museum

Sydney Observatory

Located in The Rocks, the hill is is a gorgeous spot for a picnic with a view, as well as being home to the Sydney Observatory, a heritage-listed museum and public observatory. The Sydney Observatory runs and family tours and activities throughout the year which are perfect for mini star gazers.

Sydney Observatory
1003 Upper Fort St, Millers Point
maas.museum/sydney-observatory

Museums Discovery Centre (MDC)

Inside the Museums Discovery Centre you’ll find millions of treasures and the opportunity to learn about museum collecting, conservation and research practices.

Museums Discovery Centre
172 Showground Rd, Castle Hill
maas.museum/museums-discovery-centre

Museum of Sydney

Located on the site of the first Government House of NSW, the Museum of Sydney tells the story of Sydney’s history and its people.

The Museum of Sydney offers family-friendly exhibitions and programs year-round (check what’s on here) and kids eat free with each adult meal purchased at the downstairs restaurant, The Governors Kitchen.

Image credit: Edge of Trees Photograph (c) Brett Boardman

Museum of Sydney
Cnr Phillip and Bridge Streets, Sydney
sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/museum-of-sydney

NSW Rail Museum

Bring your locomotive-loving kids to get up close to trains at the NSW Rail Museum in the historic town of Thirlmere. Since 1975 this little town has been home to a large collection of NSW’s railway heritage, including over 100 vehicles that move on a railway including locomotives, railroad cars and more.

Get info on visiting the NSW Rail Museum here.

NSW Rail Museum
10 Barbour Rd, Thirlmere
https://www.nswrailmuseum.com.au/

Sydney Bus Museum

The 100-year-old Leichhardt Tramshed is home to a vast collection of historic buses, open to the public every first and third Sunday of the month. Jump aboard a vintage double-decker bus over the ANZAC Bridge to the Queen Victoria Building in the CBD and back again.

Sydney Bus Museum
25 Derbyshire Rd, Leichhardt
sydneybusmuseum.info

Museum of Fire

Enjoy exhibits focusing on fire safety and firefighting and explore historic fire trucks at the Museum of Fire in Penrith.

Junior firefighters will enjoy puzzles, dress-ups, fire safety activities and computer games.

Museum of Fire
1 Museum Dr, Penrith
museumoffire.com.au

Image credit: Destination NSW Adam Hollingsworth

Sydney Jewish Museum

The Sydney Jewish Museum is dedicated to the documentation of the Holocaust and the history of the Jewish people in Australia.

Sydney Jewish Museum
148 Darlinghurst Rd, Darlinghurst
sydneyjewishmuseum.com.au

Justice and Police Museum

Housed inside the sandstone buildings that contained the original Water Police Court (1856), Water Police Station (1858) and the Police Court (1885), the Justice and Police Museum features 1890s holding cells, offices, charge room and courts, forensic evidence, historic weapons and forensic photography.

The Justice and Police Museum runs family-friendly programs throughout the year for kids to learn about the law, hear true life tales and take park in mock trials. Get info on events here.

Justice and Police Museum
Phillip St & Albert St, Sydney
sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/justice-police-museum

Image credit: Police Station Charge Room, Justice & Police Museum

Hyde Park Barracks Museum

The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hyde Park Barracks is a cutting-edge museum that brings Sydney’s past to life through a series of innovative and immersive experiences.

Built in 1819 by convict labour under the commission of Governor Lachlan Macquarie, the Hyde Park Barracks were originally designed as a place to house up to 600 male convicts.

The Barracks, over time, have also been an immigration depot, asylum, law courts, government offices hospital and mint. It is now a museum and cafe and one of 11 Australian convict sites inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The Hyde Park Barracks runs family-friendly programs year-round to engage children in its history. Get info on upcoming events here.

Find out more about visiting the Hyde Park Barracks Museum here.

Casula Powerhouse

Located in South West Sydney, the Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre is a place to experience the arts including performances and exhibitions. As well as featuring six galleries with rotating exhibitions, the Powerhouse also has a pair of three-story decommissioned tanks that are open to the public as legal graffiti spaces.

The Casula Powerhouse runs family-friendly art programs throughout the year. Check out their upcoming events and workshops here.

Casula Powerhouse
1 Powerhouse Road, Casula
casulapowerhouse.com

Image credit: Casula Powerhouse

The Rocks Discovery Museum

Rocks Discovery Museum, a free museum located inside a restored 1850s sandstone warehouse with an interactive kids corner upstairs, or grab one of the best scones in Sydney at The Tea Cosy (their kids’ Devonshire tea is adorable and delicious).

The Rocks Discovery Museum
Kendall Ln, The Rocks
therocks.com/things-to-do/the-rocks-discovery-museum

The Big Dig Archaeology Education Centre

The Big Dig Cumberland Street Archaeological Site is a heritage-listed archaeological site in The Rocks. The centre is part of Sydney Harbour YHA,, and while it is no longer an “active” excavation site, it does facilitate hands-on archaeology educational experiences and opens the archaeological site to the public.

The general public are welcome to visit the Big Dig site during daylight hours. This visit is best in conjunction with The Rocks Discovery Museum, where significant finds from the site are displayed.

The Big Dig Archaeology Education Centre
110 Cumberland St, Sydney
thebigdig.com.au

Savannah Place

Built in 1844, Savannah Place is a heritage-listed former grocery store and workers’ cottages. The terrace of four houses was built by Irish immigrants, home to more than 100 families over 150 years.

Savannah Place is now a historic house museum, telling the stories of the people who called this place and this neighbourhood home.

Savannah Place
58/64 Gloucester St, The Rocks
https://sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/susannah-place

White Rabbit Collection

Stroll through four floors of one of the world’s largest and most significant collections of contemporary Chinese art. There is also a tranquil street-level Tea House to enjoy.

Rea more about visiting the White Rabbit Art Gallery.

White Rabbit
30 Balfour Street, Chippendale
whiterabbitcollection.org

Elizabeth Farm

Built in 1973 for John and Elizabeth Macarthur, Elizabeth Farm is one of the oldest homes in Australia. Inside the house you’ll find reproductions of furnishings and objects that belonged to the home’s original owners. Wander the recreated 1930s garden or enjoy a Devonshire tea at the tea room. The scones are some of the best we have ever tasted.

Elizabeth Farm runs year-round family tours and programs to engage kids in the history of the property and introduce them to what life was like during the early 19th century. Kids will get a kick out of trying to do the laundry in a tub, throwing quoits or doing some craft. Get info on upcoming events and programs here.

Elizabeth Farm
70 Alice St, Rosehill
sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/elizabeth-farm

Vaucluse House

Vaucluse House was built in 1803 and was once owned by William Charles Wentworth, father of the Australian Constitution. It’s one of Sydney’s few remaining 19th-century mansions that is still surrounded by its ten hectares of original gardens and grounds.

Take a tour through the house for a glimpse of what life was life for the families who once lived there, stroll around the beautiful gardens and enjoy a high tea at the tea rooms.

Vaucluse House runs year-round family-friendly programs to immerse kids in colonial life. Get info on events here.

Get more info on high tea at Vaucluse House here.

Vaucluse House
69A Wentworth Rd, Vaucluse
sydneylivingmuseums.com.au/vaucluse-house

Carriageworks

Carriageworks is the largest multi-arts centre in Australia. The centre is free to enter and see the contemporary works commissioned for the space by Australian and International artists. The works displayed inside the Carriageworks are usually ambitious and monumental in size, and are always inclusive.

This is an excellent venue for wheelchairs and strollers. The Carriageworks also contains a theatre where shows are held, often with a family-focus.

Carriageworks
245 Wilson St, Eveleigh
https://carriageworks.com.au

Museums Outside of Sydney

Early Start Discovery Space (Wollongong)

This is one just for the kids! The Early Start Learning Space is Sydney’s only dedicated children’s museum, so well worth the drive to Wollongong to visit.

Inside the museum, kids can let their imaginations run wild with interactive and engaging playful exhibits. Everything is designed to be touched!

Kids will particularly enjoy crawling through a giant stomach, constructing a house, acting on stage and captaining a ship among many other things.

Get more info on visiting the Early Start Discovery Space here.

Early Start Discovery Space
UOW Building 21 Early Start Facility
Keiraville, Wollongong
earlystartdiscoveryspace.edu.au

Space Science (Wollongong)

Science Space is the only dedicated science experience in NSW and is home to DIGISTAR 6, Australia’s most digitally advanced Planetarium.

The museum focuses on educating and inspiring through hands-on learning with over 100 interactive exhibits, science shows and workshops.

Space Science
Innovation Campus, 60 Squires Way, North Wollongong
sciencespace.com.au

Norman Lindsey Gallery and Museum (Blue Mountains)

I’ve been visiting Norman Lindsay Gallery at Faulconbridge for over 15 years and it always enchants. Norman Lindsey (1879-1969) was an Australian artist, cartoonist, and writer. His former home and studio have been turned into a gallery and museum run by the National Trust, showcasing his work and life.

We love to wander around the landscaped gardens and admire his sculptures, or wander through the gallery to see his beautiful paintings and etchings. Norman Lindsey is also the creator of the Magic Pudding. Visiting the gallery is a great introduction for kids to this Aussie masterpiece.

Get more info on visiting the Norman Lindsey Gallery and Museum here.

Norman Lindsey Gallery and Museum
14 Norman Lindsay Cres, Faulconbridge
normanlindsay.com.au

Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame (Southern Highlands, Bowral)

Take a trip back to the glory days of cricket with a visit to the Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame in the country town of Bowral in the NSW Southern Highlands.

The museum features state-of-the-art interactive exhibits and a large collection of cricket memorabilia. Adjacent to the park where the Bradman Museum is housed you’ll find a cricket-themed children’s playground.

Bradman Museum and International Cricket Hall of Fame
St Jude Street, Bowral
bradman.com.au

Image courtesy of DNSW.

More things to do in Sydney

Looking for more things to do in Sydney with kids? Head over here.

Find the best beaches to visit in Sydney here.

Get a list of free things to do in Sydney here.

Find the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney here.

Novotel Darling Harbour: Sydney Hotel Review

March 22, 2018 / CBD, Darling Harbour, Sydney / 0 comment

The Novotel hotels are renowned for being an extremely family-friendly choice, and the Novotel Darling Harbour is no exception. We took a tour of the hotel recently and thought it made an excellent choice for Sydney accomodation.

Novotel Darling Harbour

The Novotel Darling Harbour was the first Accor and Novotel hotel in Australia. All rooms are undergoing a soft refresh in 2018 with new carpet and furniture.

Of the 525 rooms at the Novotel, 50% face Darling Harbour, and 50% have inter-connecting rooms. The rooms are comprised of 441 standard/superior rooms and 72 executive rooms and junior suites. The interconnecting rooms have one room with a queen bed and one with two double beds, a perfect set up for families.

As with all Novotels, the hotel has a kids’ only activity space next to the Trenery Restaurant. Kids also receive a welcome pack at check in. During the school holidays the Novotel Darling Harbour offers special family activities such as movies in the conference room. They also partner with merlin Entertainment year-round to provide guests with great deals on attractions as part of their stay at the hotel.

The Novotel is the only Sydney CBD hotel with its own tennis court – this can be found on the roof, next to the pool. There is also a gym for guests over 16.

The Trenery Restaurant is a beautiful, bright space for dining in. They offer a very reasonably priced Kids menu with activities and crayons.

Location is one of the most important factors for choosing a hotel and the Novotel Darling Harbour is in an excellent position. It’s a short walk over a walkway into the Darling Harbour shopping centre, where you’ll also find plenty of restaurants. Nearby attractions include the International Convention Centre Sydney (ICC), Australian National Maritime Museum, Sea Life Sydney Aquarium, Wild Life Sydney Zoo, the Powerhouse Museum and Star Casino.

If you are relying on public transport to get around, there is a nearby light rail station including light rail (nearest station is Convention), ferry (nearest stop is Pyrmont Bay Wharf) and train is only a 15 minute walk to Town Hall station.

In April 2018 the Novotel also launched new wellness items for kids including in-room programs and menus.

The kids in-room program stars Sally Fitzgibbons and Rachael Coopes and takes kids through exercises designed to keep them active on vacation, or help them wind down in the evenings.

A new menu has been designed for kids featuring classics including spaghetti bolognaise with hidden vegetables, fruit smoothies and tasty desserts like berries and yoghurt.

Novotel Darling Harbour
100 Murray Street, Pyrmonth NSW 2009
+61 2 9288 7180
novoteldarlingharbour.com.au

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids here.

Find things to do in Sydney for free here.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney here.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney here.

Find the best high teas in Sydney here.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney here.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day here.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney here.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney here.

The Langham Sydney: Afternoon Tea With Mr Rabbit

March 19, 2018 / CBD, Sydney, Sydney Food / 0 comment

This Easter, take Sydney kids to the Langham to experience an elegant Afternoon Tea with Mr Rabbit.

We love the Langham. It’s been our go-to hotel for a touch of luxury in Sydney since we were dating and Cheese was just a twinkle in our eyes. The Langham, Sydney has always put on a gorgeous high tea that we enjoy but, when there’s a special theme involved, like Easter, it’s always just that bit extra special.

Afternoon Tea with Mr Rabbit

Until the 31st of March, families can enjoy a rabbit warren of Easter delights in the ever-so-elegant Palm Court at the Langham, Sydney.

The Afternoon Tea with Mr Rabbit is a beautiful treat to enjoy during the Easter season. It includes three tiers of savoury and sweet food and a little Easter gift to take home.

Included in the high tea is your choice of tea, coffee or a hot chocolate.

Savoury
Chive cream cheese, dark ale soil, beetroot
Chicken and leek pie
Smoked trout rillettes, brioche
Curried egg sandwich
Pastrami, Swiss cheese and sauerkraut finger sandwich
(As vegetarians we received a Mediterranean sandwich and pumpkin pie as a substitute)

Langham Sydney, Afternoon Tea With Mr Rabbit, Australia

Sweet
Chocolate nest with mini eggs
Passionfruit baby chick cupcake
Carrot macaron
Ginger bread and chocolate sable
Orange and coconut egg
Mandarin and white chocolate bonbon
Carrot and vanilla scones with jam and cream

The food and service were impeccable as always. The scones fresh from the oven as well as large and fluffy, and the ribbon sandwiches divine. We adored the attention to detail in the sweets and particularly loved the bonbon and coconut and orange egg.

Seated in the elegant Palm Court, Cheese remarked to me that the hotel is “so pretty” and “beautiful” (that it is!). You might think such a refined establishment might not be the best place to take kids, but I would say the opposite – that if you expose kids to beautiful things and environments where the expectation is that they will sit quietly, even if while they are sitting they are drawing or playing a game, that they will learn to appreciate and to behave in different settings.

I was once a nervous parent who took her baby, then toddler and preschooler to high tea and prepared for the worst – which invariably did happen. Crying, tears, tantrums, the works. This high tea outing I really realised how far we’ve come together as Cheese and I walked around the lobby with her taking pictures of the “amazing painting” and “gorgeous flowers”, and as we read through the tea menu together to see which kind of tea we would try.

After the tea was finished Cheese made a score chart of what items she liked the most, which the chefs apparently found hilarious when they saw it later. She ranked the scones as highly as her love for her parents (say what!!), followed by the quiche, tea and hot chocolate.

I think we have another high tea connoisseur in the family!

Afternoon Tea with Mr Rabbit

Monday – Friday

12pm-5pm

$45 per child

$70 per adult

$90 per person includes a glass of Champagne

$100 per person includes a glass of Rosé Champagne

Saturday – Sunday

$45 per child

$80 per adult

$100 per person includes a glass of Champagne

$110 per person includes a glass of Rosé Champagne

The Langham, Sydney is also putting on an Easter Sunday Buffet Lunch on Sunday 1st April 2018.

The lunch features a buffet spread, including a chocolate fountain, and the hotel lobby will transform into an Easter wonderland with colourful chocolate egg displays. Guests also receive their very own Easter gift to take home on departure.

EASTER LUNCH MENU

Seatings from 2pm until 3pm

$95 per adult

$50 per child

Get more info on Easter at the Langham, Sydney here.

The Langham Sydney
89-113 Kent St
Millers Point, Sydney
Bookings: +61 (2) 9256 2222

Read about the Afternoon Tea with Wedgewood offered by the Langham, Sydney here.

Thinking of staying the night? Read our hotel review of the Langham Sydney here.

Find more high teas in Sydney here.

We were hosted at by the Langham, Sydney for our afternoon tea. All opinions are our own.

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids here.

Find things to do in Sydney for free here.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney here.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney here.

Find the best high teas in Sydney here.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney here.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day here.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney here.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney here.

Ryde Park: The Grounds Keeper Cafe, Playground & Scooter + Bike Track

March 18, 2018 / Outdoor Play, Playgrounds, Ryde, South West, Sydney, Sydney Food / 0 comment

Sydney’s Northwest is spoiled for choice with excellent parks, playgrounds and cafes. Ryde Park, in particular, is a special spot. It’s a huge park complete with sporting grounds, basketball court, playground, picnic facilities, a brand new scooter and bike track, plus the excellent Grounds Keeper Cafe.

Ryde Park: The Grounds Keeper Cafe, Playground & Scooter + Bike Track

The Grounds Keeper Cafe was formerly known as Ryde Park Cafe before its makeover in 2013 by owner Sam Hayek. The menu has a Middler Eastern flavour to it, with dishes on offer such as Kafta Tagine Eggs (Clay pot baked free range eggs with spiced lamb kafta and served with pita bread and labna, $19) Chilli Eggs (Spicy avocado and tomato salsa on toasted sourdough, free range poached eggs, topped with Dukkah and drizzled with balsamic glaze, $19) and Hummus Awarma (Traditional Lebanese breakfast of hummus topped with fried eggs, slow cooked lamb, toasted almonds and fresh mint served with Lebanese bread, $22).

Brekkie is served until 11:30am, when the lunch menu kicks in. There are plenty of options for vegetarians and also those on a gluten-free diet.

Kids can choose from the Little Grounds Keeper Breakfast Menu, which features dishes from $6.50-$9.50 including choice of eggs with bacon with toast $9.50, ham and cheese omelette with toast, pancakes and a ham and cheese toastie. The Little Grounds Keeper Lunch Menu has dishes from $9.50-12.50 including wagyu cheese burger, penne napolitana, grilled chicken tenderloins with fries and kafta skewers with fries.

Tables are able to be booked in advance – which I highly recommend for weekends as it’s a very popular cafe. We didn’t book and were lucky enough to get a table straight away for our party of 7. Food came quickly after it was ordered and was cooked to perfection.

My Pancakes On The Grounds (layered home made pancakes topped with mascarpone, fresh strawberry, crushed pistachio, pure maple and caramel syrup and dusted with icing sugar) were a work of art and incredibly delicious.

The eggs on toast with added sides got a thumbs up from hubby and our friend who ordered the same.

The Grounds Keeper Cafe is incredibly popular with families in particular and it’s easy to see why. The food is incredible and service fast, even on a super busy day.

There is a reasonably-sized playground under shade directly outside the cafe, which is particularly good if you have to wait for a table or your meal. There are bathrooms behind the cafe including a baby change table and disabled toilet. The cafe and playground are also extremely accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. Wheelchairs are able to wheel directly into the cafe and up to the tables.

Ryde Park Scooter and Bike Track

A brand new scooter and bike track was added in March 2018. It’s a great little area with stop signs and roundabouts, making it fun and educational at the same time. There are three picnic tables with shade scattered around the track. Trees have been planted but it will be a while before they will give any shade. A water fountain at the entrance of the park is handy if you visit on a hot day.

Ryde Park
Ryde Park, Blaxland Road, Ryde

The Grounds Keeper Cafe
30 Argyle Ave, Ryde
Hours: Mon, Wed-Fri 9am-4pm, Sat & Sun 8am-4pm (Closed Tuesdays)
Kids’ Menu: Yes
Change Table: Yes
High Chairs: Yes
Easy stroller access: Yes
Playground: Yes
groundskeepercafe.com.au

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids here.

Find things to do in Sydney for free here.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney here.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney here.

Find the best high teas in Sydney here.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney here.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day here.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney here.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney here.

Chinese Garden of Friendship, Darling Harbour, Sydney, Australia

February 21, 2018 / CBD, Darling Harbour, Outdoor Play, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

A peaceful way to spend a few hours in Sydney is with a stroll through the Chinese Garden of Friendship at the south end of Darling Harbour.

Chinese Garden of Friendship, Darling Harbour

The gardens were built in 1988 as a symbol of friendship between Sydney and the southern Chinese city of Guandong. It was designed and built by Chinese landscape architects and gardeners to reflect the “yin-yang” Taoist principles and the elements of earth, fire, water, metal and wood.

The two lions at the entrance, guarding the gardens, also represent yin and yang. If you’re into in Feng Shui, you’ll be interested to know that the garden is also designed to encourage the flow of “qi”, or “life force”.

We really enjoyed strolling through the gardens. They are serene, even when travelled through at high speed by a six-year-old. The gardens feature waterfalls, lagoons with lotus plants, lakes, pavilions, sculptures, and wildlife such as koi carp, birds and water dragons.

A feature we particularly liked was the Dragon Wall with its two imperial dragons. The brown dragon represents Guangdong and the blue New South Wales, playing with the pearl of friendship. It’s just stunning.

Kids will enjoy the free Emperor’s Quest, a self-guided adventure for ages 5-12. The quest takes visitors to find the 12 animals of the Chinese lunar calendar hidden throughout the garden. Each animal has a clue to help find it, and information on it once it’s found.

Visitors, both adult and children, can also dress up in traditional Chinese costumes from the Ming and Ching dynasties (costs and extra $10 adult $5 kids).

The gardens holds plenty of free programs throughout the year including school holidays, with activities such as tai chi classes and lantern painting.

Visitors can also enjoy the daily koi feeding at 11:30 am.

Last stop before leaving the gardens is the Teahouse, where a range of traditional Chinese refreshment are served. I’ve heard the scones are fantastic.

Chinese Garden of Friendship
Darling Harbour
Hours: Open daily 9:30am-6pm (Apr-Sep), 9:30am-5:30pm (Oct-Mar). Closed Good Friday and Christmas Day.
Cost: Adult $6, kids under 12 $3, family (2 adults, 2 kids) $15, concession $3, senior $4.50.
Accessibility: the lower pathways and pavilions are very accessible for wheelchairs and strollers. The steps and rocky pathways in the upper garden are more difficult.
Facilities: Accessible toilet and baby change facilities.
Online: chinesegarden.com.au

More things to do in Sydney

Find a list of the best things to do in Sydney with kids here.

Find things to do in Sydney for free here.

Get a list of the best kid-friendly beaches in Sydney.

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney here.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney here.

Find the best high teas in Sydney here.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney here.

Check out things to do in Sydney on a rainy day here.

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney here.

First time visiting Sydney? Get tips for first time visitors to Sydney here.

Chinamans Beach, Mosman: Sydney’s Best Beaches

February 14, 2018 / Beaches, Mosman, North Shore, Outdoor Play, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

The beautiful residential suburb of Mosman, on Sydney’s north shore, is home to several stunning beaches including Chinamans Beach. We happened upon this little gem on a hot summer’s day, when we weren’t able to find parking at nearby Balmoral and thought we’d give its smaller neighbour a try instead.

Chinamans Beach is a smaller beach, a 250m stretch of sand that sits inside Middle Harbour. The result is a quiet, calm beach with very gentle water, perfect for families with little kids.

It was named after the areas local Chinese residents who once organised market gardens in the park.

If you want to visit both beaches, Balmoral is only a 1km walk around the rocks to the south. On the day we visited the water was too high so we didn’t attempt it, but it is possible.

There is no shade on Chinamans beach, so bringing an umbrella or tent is advisable. We were lucky enough to score a spot at the south end of the beach under a tree up on some rocks near the path. Not an idea spot, but at least we had some shade.

You also won’t find any cafes or kiosks on Chinamans Beach, so bring plenty of water and food (and sunscreen!). A very enterprising person was selling beach patrons snacks and ice blocks from his little boat when we visited.

There are no lifeguards at Chinamans Beach, however the water is so calm that it’s considered a very safe beach. It does, however, get quite deep as it goes out further into Shell Cove, the bay in front of the beach that is popular for yachts to park.

At the south end, the rocks that lead to Balmoral Beach are fun to climb on and have small rockpools with sea life in them. Be careful as the rocks are slippery and have sharp barnacles on them.

Behind the beach is Rosherville Reserve, a large, quiet park area, perfect for picnics or barbeques. It has plenty of trees and shade, a small playground and decent shower and toilet.

Getting to Chinamans Beach

CAR
The park has a very small car park which is metered (paid). You can also park for free on the streets surrounding Rosherville Reserve, which has a path to the beach.

PUBLIC TANSPORT
Catch a bus that goes through Mosman from the Sydney CBD and Neutral Bay. Check bus timetables here.