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Sydney Life

Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool & Poolside Cafe, Sydney

November 16, 2020 / Outdoor Play, Sydney / 0 comment

Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool & Poolside Cafe, Sydney

Enjoy swimming with a view of Woolloomooloo Bay at the Andrew “Boy” Charlton Pool, located in The Domain, Sydney.

Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool is an eight-lane outdoor heated salt-water 50-metre swimming pool, with a smaller, 20m shallow pool.

There have been 11 outdoor bathing establishments in the Woolloomooloo Bay area since European settlement, including the “Gentlemen’s Baths”, which held Australia’s first official competitive swimming events in 1846.

The most recent pool was named in honour of Australian swimmer Andrew “Boy” Charlton, who won five Olympic medals during the 1920s, and who set a world record at the baths (then called the Domain Baths) in 1924.

A visit to the pool is really the perfect Sydney outing. The pool is typically closed for four months in the colder period of the year – May through August – so plan your visit accordingly.

From September 1 – April 30, the pools are open and heated for comfort.

The 8 lane x 50m Pool is chemically treated sea water and heated to a balmy 25 degrees. Depth ranges from 1.2m to 2m.

The 20m Program Pool has a maximum depth of 1.2m and heated to 29 degrees. This pool is perfect for babies and toddlers, and also has a shade cover to protect littles from the sun.

While there would usually be sunbeds on the pool deck available for use, when we visited in November 2020 there was no sunbathing due to COVID safety plans.

There is however a shaded grandstand area where people are able to place their belongings or watch family members swim from.

The Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool hosts Learn to Swim lessons and swimming squad programs.

Other features include a family change room and access for people with disabilities.

After your swim, do what we did and enjoy a sensational brunch at the Poolside Cafe, which is located at the entrance to the pool. It has a stunning view of the pool and bay, and offers both indoor and outdoor seating.

The cafe offers all-day breakfast and lunch from 12pm. They have an excellent range of smoothies and healthy food options, with gluten-free and vegan options.

We ordered the Free Range Eggs on toast ($13, available until 11:30am only), one serving scrambled, and one with additional bacon, wilted spinach and roast tomatoes, the Blush Bircher Museli with Almond Milk (raspberries, kiwi, strawberries, coconut, pistachio & roasted hazelnuts, $18) and the Summer Sunrise smoothie (mango, raspberry, banana and coconut water, $9.50).

The food and service were both A+ and the view amazing – this is a cafe that we will absolutely come back to time and time again, with a quick refreshing dip in the pool for some exercise first.

Read more about visiting the Poolside Cafe.

After your swim and brunch, I highly recommend exploring more of the Royal Botanic Garden or Mrs Macquarie’s Point, which is what we did on the day we visited.

The iconic view from Mrs Macquarie’s Point is on the tourist track for a good reason – it really is stunning.

We love to stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden in all seasons – spring is particularly gorgeous with the Spring Walk and jacarandas in full bloom.

Take a ride on the Choo Choo Express if you want to save little legs walking, visit the pond with eels in the centre of the garden and pass through the cactus garden near Lion Gate on your way out.

Read more about visiting the best Sydney gardens.

To get there: We drove and parked on the side of the road near Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool. There is metered parking here and it’s the shortest walk to get to the pool via a short walk down the hill down either a path or steps. There is a disabled car parking spot at the entrance to the pool and cafe.

You can also park in the Domain Car Park and walk, or catch train/bus.

Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool & Poolside Cafe
1c Mrs Macquaries Rd, Sydney
abcpool.org

This review was written in conjunction with Belgravia Leisure. All opinions are my own.

More things to do in Sydney

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

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Explore the best Sydney gardens and parks.

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

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

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

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

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

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Visit the most beautiful Sydney gardens.

Explore Sydney’s best parks.

Find things to do in Wollongong.

Cook+Phillip Park Pool & Aquatic Centre in the Sydney CBD

November 9, 2020 / Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Cook+Phillip Park Pool & Aquatic Centre in the Sydney CBD

Swim in one of three heated pools, including a 50m lap pool and leisure pool, in the heart of Sydney at The Cook+Phillip Park Aquatic Centre.

The Cook+Phillip Park Aquatic Centre is located smack in the middle of Sydney’s CBD, nestled between St Mary’s Cathedral, Hyde Park and the Australian Museum.

Perfect for year-round aquatic fun, the centre features three heated indoor pools:

An 8-lane 50m lap pool, with ‘easy steps’ for assisted entry and hoist, heated to 26.5°C.

A leisure pool, heated to 30°C with ‘beach-style’ entry and full-access ramp. There is a 35-metre wave pool inside the leisure pool which operates hourly on weekends from 12:00pm.

The leisure pool is fantastic for little ones with its shallow entry, a small slide and fountains. The large, colourful mosaic sculpture in the middle of the pool is great for kids to splash around.

A hydrotherapy pool, heated to 33°C with full ramp access.

The Cook+Phillip Park Aquatic Centre also hosts Learn to Swim lessons for all ages (starting at 6 months right through to adult advanced), plus competitive squad programs and swimming clubs. The pools for baby classes are located at the back of the Aquatic Centre, in their own designated space. The lap pool is used for older children’s lessons.

There is a large courtyard attached to the centre with tables and chairs. It was closed (as was the cafe) when we visited.

There is a sports shop at the entrance which sells swimsuits and other swimming essentials.

There is a pay parking station on Cathedral Street which offers all-day parking on weekends for a reasonable amount. If your visit is going to be short, street parking in this same area is a cheaper bet. You can also catch the train to Museum or St James.

After you’ve had a swim in the Cook+Phillip Park Pool, make a day of your city visit with one of these ideas:

Yum Cha at Bodhi

Located right next to the Aquatic Centre, Bodhi is an excellent choice for a post-swim lunch. Bodhi serves vegan yum cha that is pretty to look at and delicious to eat. Choose a table under the fig trees and enjoy this Sydney dining institution that is a long-time fave of ours.

Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre, Ultimo

November 2, 2020 / Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre, Ultimo

Get fit year-round at the Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre, featuring three indoor heated pools and a spa, cafe, shop, health club and a sauna and steam room.

The Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre (ITAC) also offers a range of aquatic and fitness programs suitable for a wide range of ages, interests, fitness levels and abilities.

Named in honour of five-time Gold Medal winning champion, Ian Thorpe, the centre opened in 2007 to provide the community with a well-rounded fitness centre that could be enjoyed in all seasons.

The Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre has a wide range of excellent features:

50m Indoor Heated Lap Pool
Squad program
Leisure Pool
Program Pool
Spa, Sauna & Steam Room
Learn to Swim
Fully equipped Gym
Small Group Training
Personal Training
Group Fitness Classes
Aqua Aerobics
Café (currently closed due to COVID-19)
Birthday Parties (currently closed for bookings due to COVID-19)
Family change rooms
Underground car park with elevator access
Disability access

It has a distinctive wave design that lets a lot of light into the centre and makes for a very appealing aesthetic while you’re enjoying the facilities.

The Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre runs an excellent Learn to Swim program, developed in partnership with Swimming Australia. The program focuses on contemporary experiential and activity-based learning techniques.

Aspiring swimmers can also join the competitive squad program once they’ve graduated from Junior Dolphins (also open to new members of all ages wishing to extend their swimming skills).

The Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre has three pools.

50m Olympic Swimming Pool
The Ian Thorpe Aquatic lap pool is an eight lane 50-metre pool with ‘easy steps’ for assisted entry and hoist. This indoor pool is heated all year round at approximately 26.5°C.

We highly enjoyed splashing around in the Recreational and Free Play Lane in the 50m pool, as well as doing some laps in the slow lane to help build up that swimming endurance again.

Program Pool
The program pool is used for the swimming and water safety program and gold aqua classes. The pool can be accessed by stairs or the access ramp and aqua wheelchairs are available for use. It is available at certain times for access by the general public and is heated to 32°C.

Leisure Swimming Pool
The leisure swimming pool is available for recreational swimming at all times and is equipped with a spa, water fountain and bubbles for fun and interactive play. It is a shallow pool suitable for all ages and is heated to approximately 30°C.

Spa, Sauna and Steam Room
The Ian Thorpe Aquatic and Fitness Centre has a sauna (dry heat), which is heated to between 70°C – 90°C. Steam room (wet heat) heated above 41°C with a humidity of around 100%. The sauna and steam room are open from 6:00am until 9:00pm. The spa, sauna and steam room were closed during our visit.

Parking is available in the underground carpark. There is lift access from the car park to the aquatic centre so on rainy days it’s easy to go from car to the centre without getting wet as well as making access easy for strollers and wheelchairs.

There are multiple changing rooms available as well as lockers to safely store belongings. Next to the 50m pool is a row of steps and benches that is great for sitting on while watching swimmers in the pool and for putting your towels and non-valuable items.

After your swim, check out nearby Powerhouse Museum or the Darling Harbour precinct.

The Powerhouse Museum is 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. There is also a great hands-on science section that we love.

Nearby Darling Harbour is has so much to entertain families, from waterfront restaurants, wildlife and tall ships to one of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

We often eat at Fratelli Fresh in the Darling Quarter and race home-made ships in the splash section of the playground, or enjoy a peaceful stroll around the Chinese Garden of Friendship.

We also love visiting the giant rays at SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, the butterflies at WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo and the hands-on exhibitions at the Australian National Maritime Museum. You can read about all the things to in Darling Harbour here.

Ian Thorpe Aquatic Centre
458 Harris St, Ultimo
Hours: Mon-Fri 6am-8pm, Sat & Sun 7am-4pm
itac.org.au

More things to do in Sydney

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

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Explore the best Sydney gardens and parks.

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

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

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

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

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

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Visit the most beautiful Sydney gardens.

Explore Sydney’s best parks.

Find things to to in Wollongong.

This post was written in collaboration with Belgravia Leisure.

The Best Sydney Parks To Explore

October 14, 2020 / Outdoor Play, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

The Best Sydney Parks To Explore

Enjoy a picnic, a wander and stunning harbour views in Sydney’s best parks.

Ballast Point Park, Birgrove

Located at the very tip of the Balmain peninsula, Ballast Point Park was once home to local Aboriginal tribes before European settlers arrived in the early 19th century. The park’s indigenous history is recognised in a dual name – Walama – which means ‘to return’. The 2.6-hectare park opened in 2009 with several design features that highlight its history. Ballast Point Park has stunning harbour views and is a popular picnic and barbecue spot for families.

Sydney Park, Alexandria

This 40-hectare park contains large expanses of grass perfect for kicking a ball around, landscaped gardens, rolling hills (great for sliding down on cardboard boxes – not kidding!), pathways for strolling or running and wetlands home to native birds. The park is also super dog-friendly, so on any given day you’ll see many many many dogs rolling, running and snuffling with abandon. Local parents like us love the huge playground.

Read more about the playground at Sydney Park.

Hyde Park, Sydney CBD

Hyde Park is a heritage-listed 16.2-hectare (40-acre) urban park right in the centre of Sydney. The oldest public parkland in Australia, Hyde Park is home to beautiful shady fig trees, various statues, the beautiful Sandringham Gardens, War Memorial and Archibald Fountain.

Nearby you’ll find the Hyde Park Barracks, Australian Museum and St Mary’s Cathedral.

Glebe Foreshore Parks

This collection of four, leafy parks in the inner-west suburb of Glebe includes Blackwattle Bay Park, Bicentennial Park, Jubilee Park, and Federal Park. The four parks huge the harbour, resulting in a stunning outlook over the water including the ANZAC Bridge and even the Sydney Harbour Bridge in the distance.

Take the 2km Glebe Foreshore Walk to enjoy the best of the vistas along this walk. Kids will enjoy the two playgrounds in Jubilee Park and Bicentennial Park.

Read more about the Glebe Foreshore Walk and Jubilee Park & Playground Glebe.

Victoria Park, Sydney CBD

Right in the middle of Sydney lies Victoria Park, a 9 hectare public park adjoining Sydney University.

Victoria Park features historic structures such as the entrance gates, Gardener’s Lodge, a Canadian totem pole and ornamental wooden bridge.

Sydney Olympic Park, Homebush

Sydney Olympic Park is not just a park, it’s a destination that includes 430 hectares of parklands, playgrounds, entertainment and sporting venues, accommodation, cafes and restaurants. for all things entertainment, sports and family fun.

Bicentennial Park

Walk, cycle or run through 40 hectares of parklands featuring wetlands, meadows, playgrounds and picnic areas at Bicentennial Park.

Bicentennial Park is located inside Sydney Olympic Park, a 40-hectare park combining the Badu Mangroves wetlands with beautifully landscaped parklands with gentle hills, meadows and a large lake.

We have been visiting the park for years, and love how much space there is to explore inside the park, with monuments, boardwalks, wildlife and playgrounds to occupy us.

Read more about visiting Bicentennial Park.

Cathy Freedman Park & Olympic Cauldron

After the magical opening and closing ceremonies (who can forget Cathy Freeman lighting the cauldron and it rising through the air simultaneously dripping with fire and water?) the cauldron was taken down and moved just a few hundred metres to its permanent home – in the appropriately named Cathy Freeman Park.

Located very conveniently next to the Allphones Arena, Cathy Freeman Park has two playgrounds – one for young kids and one for older – huge shady trees and easy access to bathrooms and cafes.

Read more about visiting Cathy Freeman Park.

Wentworth Common

A hidden gem inside the sprawling Sydney Olympic Park, Wentworth Common is a quiet, grassy park with wetlands, a playground and picnic facilities.

Wentworth Common is easy to find, with a car park directly outside, off the main road (Marjorie Jackson Pkwy). It’s often overlooked, making it a lovely spot for those seeking solitude.

Read more about visiting Wentworth Common.

Newington Armory

Visit the world heritage-listed Newington Armory in Sydney Olympic Park. The former Royal Australian Navy armament depot is now a place to enjoy cycling, art, picnics, wildlife and history.

The Newington Armory was built from 1897 by the Royal Australian Navy. It was designated as a world heritage site on 14 January 2011. What was once an industrial military site is now an arts precinct with a theatre, outdoor amphitheatre, artist studios and an exhibition space, as well as a place to cycle/scoot, picnic and play.

Read more about visiting Newington Armory.

Fagan Park, Galston

Fagan Park in Sydney’s Hornsby shire is a 55 hectare park with themed gardens, playgrounds, historic Netherby Cottage and an Eco Garden to explore.

Fagan Park is particularly beautiful in spring, with a stunning selection of cherry blossoms in bloom, and in autumn where the deciduous trees around the lake are in full colourful glory. One of our favourite Sydney gardens, Fagan Park is a special spot that the locals have kept hidden for way too long.

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is Australia’s second-oldest national park. It has stunning water vistas, beaches, rainforests, mangroves and Aboriginal heritage sites.

Read more about the America Bay track within the park.

Western Sydney Parklands

The Western Sydney Parklands covers a whopping 5280 hectares. It includes:

Plough and Harrow park

Plough and Harrow has a fantastic playground, 22 electric BBQs, parking for over 200 cars, 24 picnic shelters, a pond with ducks and other water birds, public bathrooms and a cafe/restaurant: Amoretti’s.

Read more about visiting Plough and Harrow park.

Lizard Log park

This beautiful green space features a nature-themed playground, scenic walks, cycling tracks and a dam.

Read more about visiting Lizard Log park.

Bungarribee

The newest park in the precinct, Bungarribee, opened in March 2017 – a 200-hectare recreational facility that gives locals plenty of wide open space to play, cycle, scoot, walk, run and even walk their dog at one of Sydney’s largest off-leash dog areas, the Warrigal Dog Run.

Nurragingy Reserve

Nurragingy Reserve is a lovely spot to picnic, with designated picnic and BBQ areas, several modern playgrounds including a water play area near the Wren picnic shelter and the Chang Lai Yuan Chinese Gardens, which features a traditional gateway, stone bridge, pavilion and waterfall gazebo.

Read more about visiting Western Sydney Parklands.

Parramatta Park

Parramatta Park is one of Sydney’s most historic places. In the centre of the park is Old Government House, which, along with the surrounding pack, is one of 11 sites that form the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage property. The park is also notable for its Aboriginal heritage: Evidence of Aboriginal occupation from over 200,000 years ago has been found there.

Sydney-siders have been enjoying Parramatta Park for recreation for a long time – it became a public park in 1858 – making it one of the earliest designated public parks in the world.

Inside Parramatta Park are also two playgrounds, a creek and the Gatehouse Tea Rooms.

Read more about the Domain Creek Playground.

Centennial Parklands, Randwick

This 360 hectare precinct includes Centennial Park, Moore Park and Queen’s Park. The Parklands are listed on the NSW Heritage Register.

The largest of the three parks that make up Centennial Parklands, Centennial Park is one of Australia’s most famous parks, and a haven for inner city families to ride bikes, horses (there are several horse riding stables located in the park as well as pony ride on weekends), picnic, play and explore. The park features ponds with ducks, formal gardens, statues, playgrounds and picnic areas.

Ian Potter Children’s Wild Play Garden

The Ian Potter Children’s Wild Play Garden opened in Centennial Park in October 2017. The 6500sq m nature-based play area features a 7m-high climbing tower, wooden bridge, water play area and an open play area where kids are encouraged to use sticks and natural materials to make their own shelters, artworks and games.

Get more info on visiting the Ian Potter Children’s WILD PLAY Garden here.

Read more about visiting Centennial Parklands.

Barangaroo Reserve

Barangaroo Reserve is Sydney’s newest park, located on the north-western tip of Sydney’s Central Business District. What was once a flat strip of concrete that was used as a container wharf has been transformed into a six-hectare waterfront parkland on Sydney Harbour, with 6,500 sandstone blocks placed along the foreshore and 75,000 100% native trees, shrubs and plants.

Read more about visiting Barangaroo Reserve.

Blue Mountains National Park

The Blue Mountains National Park was founded in 1959. It encompasses a whopping 156,000 acres and is part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area. There is so much to see in the National Park including plenty of spectacular bushwalks that include stunning waterfalls. Scenic World is a popular and easy way to experience the Blue Mountains aboard Scenic World’s Skyway or Cableway.

Jubilee Park & Playground Glebe Sydney

October 14, 2020 / Outdoor Play, Playgrounds, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Jubilee Park & Playground Glebe Sydney

Jubilee Park is a large, waterfront park in Glebe, featuring a large children’s playground, walking/cycling path, picnic / BBQ facilities and public restrooms.

Jubilee Park has plenty of shady with huge fig trees with roots above ground, and a large playground which is located at the end of Glebe Point Road.

The playground is great for kids of all ages, with a slippery dip, sandpit, swings, carousel and a cubby house shaped like a pod that was designed by award-winning landscape architect Sue Barnsley.

The park is located on the Glebe Foreshore Walk, which is a fab walk wrapping around the harbour.

Jubilee Park
5 Northcote Rd, Glebe
cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/playgrounds/jubilee-park-playground

More things to do in Sydney

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

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Explore the best Sydney gardens and parks.

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

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

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

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

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

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Glebe Foreshore Walk, Sydney

October 14, 2020 / Outdoor Play, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Glebe Foreshore Walk, Sydney

The 2km Glebe Foreshore Walk stretches from Pyrmont’s Sydney Fish Market around Blackwattle Bay to Bicentennial and Jubilee parks. The trail is perfect for running, cycling or walking.

The Foreshore Walk is a fave local haunt of ours, and we often enjoy weekends grabbing food or a gelato at the Tramsheds before taking this walk.

The walk can be started at the Tramsheds (where there is free parking available) or at the Pyrmont Fish Market. I suggest starting the walk with the intention to enjoy breakfast or lunch at the destination.

The path is fully paved, making it ideal for scooters, bikes, wheelchairs and strollers. There is a section with large stones however which make for a bumpy ride.

Along the walk you will enjoy stunning views of the ANZAC Bridge as well as open grasslands, playgrounds at both Jubilee Park and Bicentennial Park, off-leash dog walking areas and a cafe with public restrooms around the halfway point. There are also public restrooms located in Jubilee Park near the sports oval.

Read about Jubilee Park & Playground Glebe.

More things to do in Sydney

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

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

Explore the best Sydney gardens and parks.

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

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

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

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

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

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Exploring the America Bay Track Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Sydney Australia

September 27, 2020 / Bush, Outdoor Play, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Exploring the America Bay Track Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park

America Bay track in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a short, moderate walk with waterfalls, Aboriginal engravings and a stunning picnic spot at the end of the track.

The track is 1km return, starting from West Head Road off McCarrs Creek Road. Look for the large sign on the side of the road. There is parking on the roadside available.

There are no bathrooms nearby, so make sure you go before you start the trail.

While the walk is quite short, it’s a winding walk with plenty to look at along the way, over uneven surfaces. There are plenty of rocks to climb and little water cascades to explore. Right near the entrance there is a a detour to see the Aboriginal rock engravings. The detour is not sign posted so we actually missed it, even though we were looking for it.

Walking quite slowly, the trail took us 45 minutes to reach the rock platform overlooking America Bay, which is located near the mouth of the Hawksburry River. It used to extend further, however the next park is closed due to hazards.

There is a little waterfall at the rock platform and plenty of shady wide rocks to sit on. We brought a picnic blanket and lunch to enjoy at the lookout.

Be sure to bring good walking shoes, a hat and sunscreen when doing this walk.

The walking track is one of many on offer in Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, so you could very easily do this short walk in conjunction with others.

Entry to the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is $12, so I would definitely advise making a day of it.

Along the walking trail you’ll encounter woodlands of scribbly gum and bloodwood, and a little creek with crystal clear water. In August and September the wildflowers bloom bright yellow and pink throughout the bush.

Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is open sunrise to sunset.

nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/walking-tracks/america-bay-walking-track

More things to do in Sydney

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

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

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

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

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

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

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

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Explore the best Sydney gardens and parks.

Explore the most beautiful Sydney gardens

September 24, 2020 / Outdoor Play, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Explore the most beautiful Sydney gardens

Sydney gardens are stunning to visit in any season, particular so in spring and autumn. With a huge variety of gardens and parks across the city and extending into day trips, it’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy beautiful blooms and stunning foliage.

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, was established in 1816, making it the oldest botanic garden and scientific institution in Australia. The garden is home to a collection of plants from around the world, with a focus on Australian plants and also a collection from the South Pacific.

The gardens have so many areas to explore, our favourites being The Calyx, which is home to one of the largest green walls in the southern hemisphere and cafe, the lion sculptures, the Palace Rose Garden and the Spring Walk. The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, are particularly stunning in spring when the Spring Walk and Rose Garden are in full bloom, and in November when the jacarandas carpet the garden in a stunning shade of purple.

Read more about visiting the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney.

Wendy Whitely’s Secret Garden, Lavender Bay

Sydney’s Lavender Bay is the perfect spot to enjoy the spectacular Sydney scenery and let time pass by. If you turn your back to the gorgeous view and walk a up a stealthy flight of stairs, you’ll find yourself somewhere a bit magical – Wendy’s Secret Garden.

The garden was created in 1992 by Wendy Whiteley, wife and muse to artist Brett Whiteley, following her by then ex-husband’s death. Before Wendy turned the patch of land into the whimsical retreat it is today, it was a dumping ground, overgrown with weeds. The lot is officially owned by NSW State Railways, but after Wendy’s incredible efforts to turn it into a treasure to be enjoyed by the general public, the government has agreed lease the land to North Sydney Council on a 30-year renewable lease, securing it for hopefully generations to come.

Read more about visiting Wendy Whiteley’s Secret Garden.

Paddington Reservoir Garden

Paddington Reservoir Gardens is an award-winning location in Sydney’s east. It was completed in 1864, created as part of Sydney’s third water supply to contain water pumped from Lords Dam at Botany Bay.

The garden contains wide boardwalks and green spaces free for the public to use. Pull up a deck chair or lie on the grass with a book. It’s a quiet spot in an otherwise very busy part of Sydney.

Read more about visiting the Paddington Reservoir Garden.

Auburn Botanic Garden

The delightfully zen Auburn Botanic Gardens are located in Auburn, in South-West Sydney. Established in 1977, the gardens are surprisingly tucked away in a suburban pocket between rows of houses. Spread over 9.7 hectares, the gardens are a serene place to enjoy nature.

This Sydney garden is particularly well known for it’s stunning Japanese Garden and native animal enclosures. Auburn Botanic Garden is particularly beautiful in the spring, where the cherry blossoms are in bloom, and in autumn where the fall colours are spectacular.

Read more about visiting the Auburn Botanic Garden.

Fagan Park, Galston

Fagan Park in Sydney’s Hornsby shire is a 55 hectare park with themed gardens, playgrounds, historic Netherby Cottage and an Eco Garden to explore.

E.G. Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens, Caringbah South

The beautiful Camellia Gardens in Southerland Shire are filled with hundreds of types of camellias which flower from the start of autumn till early springtime and are at their best between April and August each year. The Rose Garden blooms from the end of September until the end of summer, so there is always something beautiful in bloom to see.

Enjoy high tea or a coffee in the Teahouse or take kids to one of two playgrounds located inside the garden grounds.

Read more about The Teahouse and visiting the E.G. Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens.

Ku-Ring-Gai Wildflower Garden

The Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden is a 123-hectare garden on Sydney’s north shore. Established in 1968, the garden is dedicated to preserving and showcasing Australian plants.

The Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden is a beautiful spot to picnic, bushwalk and learn about Australian flora and fauna.

While some areas of the garden have been cleared from bush such as Lambert’s Clearing, which has a large grassed area with picnic tables and a children’s playground, most of the garden is in a natural bush state.

Read more about visiting Ku-Ring-Gai Wildflower Garden.

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.

Read more about visiting the Chinese Garden of Friendship.

Gardens to Day Trip To

Wollongong Botanic Garden

The Wollongong Botanic Garden is a 30-hectare garden in the suburb of Keiraville featuring a large collection of native and exotic plants from around the world.

During winter, the succulent garden is in full bloom, and spring sees many blooms around the Azalea Bank and Middle Creek. The Japanese Drum Bridge is a popular spot for a photo.

Read more about visiting the Wollongong Botanic Garden.

Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan

The Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan is a 416-hectare garden set in a hilly area of the southwestern Sydney suburb of Mount Annan. During September, the gardens have a stunning display of paper daisies.

The Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan are free to enter. They are popular place for families in Sydney’s west and south-west to visit for picnic lunches, due to their large grassed areas, huge playground, and excellent facilities including a great cafe.

Read more about visiting The Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan.

Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah

The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden is the only botanic garden in the world located in a World Heritage area. Home to 21,000 plants of 900 species, the 69-acre garden is located 100km west of Sydney at Mount Tomah, in the Blue Mountains, NSW, Australia.

Established in 1972, the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden is heritage-listed and focusses on the conservation of cool climate plants that do not grow in the warmer climate of Sydney.

During September, the gardens have a stunning display of daffodils.

Read more about visiting Blue Mountains Botanic Garden Mount Tomah.

Wildwood Garden, Bilpin

Enjoy seasonal colours in the fresh mountain at at Wildwood Garden, a privately-owned cool climate garden in the Blue Mountains, 90 minutes drive west of Sydney.

Wildwood Garden was created over 38 years by Wayne and Sue Tapping. Located in Blipin, on the fringe of the Blue Mountains and deep in apple country, the garden has a glorious collection of plants which are stunning to behold throughout the year.

The gardens are particularly stunning in autumn and spring with cherry blossoms, however in summer the rose garden is also in full bloom.

Read more about visiting Wildwood Garden.

Everglades Historic House and Gardens Leura

We love a beautiful garden and the Everglades Historic House & Gardens certainly ticks all the boxes. A beautiful 1930s, Art Deco home set amongst 5.2 hectares of stunning gardens, the Everglades is destination that will transport you to a bygone era of grace and charm.

This private garden is stunning to wander around in any season, particularly so in autumn and spring. Be sure to enjoy a scone from the cafe.

Read more about visiting Everglades Historic House and Gardens.

Norman Lindsey Gallery, Museum & Sculpture Garden, Faulconbridge

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. You can read more about Norman Lindsey and his work here.

Norman Lindsey is also the creator of the Magic Pudding. Visiting the gallery is a great introduction for kids to this Aussie masterpiece.

Read more about visiting Norman Lindsey Gallery, Museum & Sculpture Garden.

Mayfield Garden, Oberon

Nestled on the outskirts of the Blue Mountains, in the central tablelands area of NSW, lies a hidden gem called Mayfield Garden.

Created by the Hawkins family in the mid 1990s, Mayfield is now one of the world’s largest privately-owned cool climate gardens. Set on a working farm spanning thousands of acres, the European-inspired garden is at once both intimate and immense.

Mayfield is open year-round. I would strongly advise visiting in different seasons; waterlilies in summer, colourful foliage in autumn, raw structure of plants in winter and fragrant blooms in spring.

Read more about visiting Mayfield Garden.

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Van Gogh Alive: A Digital Art Experience

September 18, 2020 / Indoor Play, Museums, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Van Gogh Alive: The Digital Art Experience

Immerse yourself in Van Gogh’s paintings at Van Gogh Alive, a multimedia art experience with digital surround sound in Sydney’s The Royal Hall of Industries.

Van Gogh Alive is a multi-sensory art exhibition celebrating the life of Vincent Van Gogh. Over 3,000 images, including Van Gogh’s works, imagery and animations are projected by forty high-definition projectors onto large screens, accompanied by digital surround, to create a completely multi-sensory experience unlike any other.

The exhibition is housed inside the historic Hall of Industries at Moore Park, in a custom-built facility that is visually spectacular as well as Covid-safe. While Van Gogh Alive has been experienced in 50 cities across the world, including Roe, Berlin, Milan, Shanghai and Moscow, the Sydney exhibition is the largest yet.

Van Gogh Alive is the brainchild of Bruce Peterson, the owner/director of Melbourne based company Melbourne-based Grande Exhibitions. The company has developed SENSORY4TM™ system, using the the state-of-the-art technology to bring Van Gogh’s most famous works to life. SENSORY4™ is a unique technological system that combines multi-channel motion graphics, cinema quality surround sound and up to forty high-definition projectors to create an exciting multi-screen environments.

The exhibition is a wonderful way for art-lovers to experience beloved works in a new, immersive way, or for those who aren’t a fan of quiet galleries to enjoy art in a more interactive fashion. It’s also a great way for kids to enjoy art as an entertaining and enchanting experience that gives the sensation of walking straight into a painting rather than looking at a flat object hanging on a white wall.

Inside the venue, the experience begins with a simple gallery with examples of Van Gogh’s paintings and informative signs on his works and life.

There is a charming set up that brings his famous painting of his own bedroom to life in a life-size model. Visitors are free to roam this section prior to the start of the main exhibition.

Through another door way lies the full multi-sensory experience, where guests are welcomed at the designated time, and encouraged to fill out the entire space. The exhibition is a 45 minute show that stops for 10 minutes then resets for each session.

The show is projected onto large screens throughout the room. Visitors can experience it from the one spot or roam around while it is in process.

Van Gogh’s masterpieces come to life in a symphony of colour, light and sound. They are displayed in the timeline of Van Gogh’s life, broken into sections that represent the different stages of his art-making. The art works are animated, paired with photographs, video and music, and give a whole new perspective to the life of one of the world’s most revered artists.

Important information for experiencing Van Gogh Alive

Entrance to the exhibition is by ticketed, timed entry.

Please arrive about 15 minutes prior to the time printed on your ticket for access control and health and security checks.

Masks will be required by all guests aged 12+ prior to entry and throughout the experience. If you have forgotten your mask, a disposable mask will be available for purchase.

Visitors will have their temperatures checked on arrival. Guests with a temperature reading of 37.5 degrees celsius or above will be asked to wait for 10 minutes and rechecked. Should their temperature read above 37.5 on the second check, they will not be permitted entry.

The exhibition is suitable for children of all ages. Children under the age of four are free.

The venue is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Photos and video are allowed, however please don’t use a flash.

Get more information on what the venue is doing to ensure Van Gogh Alive is a Covid-safe experience here.

There is a cafe and gift shop at the exit. Please bring cards not cash.

Two hour free parking is available in the Wilson ‘EQ Carpark’.

If taking public transport, get information here.

The Royal Hall of Industries, Entertainment Quarter, 1 Driver
Avenue, Moore Park.
Dates: Van Gogh Alive is on display for a limited season, starting September 18, 2020.
Prices: Tickets start at: $30 for Adults. $85 Family Four pack, $22 for youth ages 13-17, $15 for children ages 5-12. Free for children under 4 years old when accompanied by an adult. Special pricing is available for seniors, students and groups of 8+.
Buy tickets here.
vangoghalive.com.au

More things to do in Sydney

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

Find things to do in Sydney for free.

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

Find the best animal experiences in Sydney.

Chase waterfalls in Sydney.

More things to do on the Central Coast.

Visit the best kid-friendly restaurants in Sydney.

Find the best high teas in Sydney.

Things to do in the Southern Highlands.

Head to one of the best museums in Sydney.

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

Enjoy one of the best ocean pools in Sydney.

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

Cool down at one of these free water parks in Sydney.

Find the best vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Sydney.

Get a list of the best playgrounds in Sydney.

Find the best ice cream and gelato in Sydney

Things to do in the Blue Mountains.

Plan amazing NSW road trips.

Pick your own fruit: fruit picking Sydney.

The best things to do in Western Sydney and Parramatta with kids.

Fagan Park & Playground Galston Sydney

September 15, 2020 / Bush, Outdoor Play, Playgrounds, Sydney, Sydney Life / 0 comment

Fagan Park & Playground Galston Sydney

Fagan Park in Sydney’s Hornsby shire is a 55 hectare park with themed gardens, playgrounds, historic Netherby Cottage and an Eco Garden to explore.

Fagan Park history

The Darug people hunted and fished in the region for thousands of years, and were the original inhabitants of the land where Fagan Park sits. The Darug people were forced to leave the land by white settlers as detail above.

Fagan Park is located on a piece of land originally granted to George Hall. After being purchased by the Fagan family it was developed as a citrus orchard and later a cattle property. The land was donated by the Fagan family for use as a recreational and culture centre. Hornsby Shire Council was appointed as sole trustee for the park, which officially opened in November 1988.

Things to do in Fagan Park

Picnics & Barbecues

Enjoy a picnic or barbecue, with a number of shelters and electric barbecues that accept $1 coins scattered throughout the grounds. (Remember to bring change!)

Gardens of Many Nations

Take an ambling stroll around the Gardens of Many Nations, which covers 10 hectares and has 11 themed gardens.

The gardens include Japanese, Dutch, Chinese, Australian, African and Mediterranean. The Chinese and Japanese gardens are particularly beautiful in spring with cherry blossom trees blooming.

Netherby Homestead and Rural Museum

The original Fagan home, Netherby Cottage, was donated to the Crown under Hornsby Shire Council’s care, control and management in 1979. The cottage and adjoining Rural Museum are a great place to learn about colonial life and local history.

The cottage and museum are open evert Tuesday and second Sunday of each month.

Playgrounds

There are two large playgrounds in Fagan Park, one at the Arcadia Road entrance and one at the Carrs Road entrance.

Arcadia Road playground

The Arcadia Road playground is a modern space with small and large climbing frames, flying fox, swings, including a Liberty Swing, water play, sand play, slides and turning disc.

There are picnic shelters and barbecues surrounding the playground, as well as a large toilet block featuring a disabled toilet.

The proximity to the car park, playground, toilets and play equipment makes this a popular spot for children’s parties. The picnic shelters are often booked out on weekends for parties.

Carrs Bush playground

The Carr Bush playground is located in the Carrs Bush area of Fagan Park. The nature-themed playground blends into the surrounding bush landscape.

Features include climbing logs, a water play feature, swings including a basket swing and disabled swing, an all-abilities carousel and a climbing frame.

There are picnic tables and toilets nearby.

Eco Garden

The Eco Garden is an educational, sustainable garden. The Council-driven community initiative features over 36 different types of fruit and vegetables, as well as showcasing environmentally friendly gardening techniques.

The Eco Garden is a great spot for kids, too, with fun features to explore including a scarecrow, sandpit and fairy garden.

Get active

Fagan Park is the perfect place to get some exercise. There are long, sealed paths perfect for riding bikes or scooters, large graded areas for ball sports, frisbees or kite-flying and bushland with short bushwalking trails.

Dogs are welcome, however must remain on a lead at all times.

Carrs Bush

A beautiful 8.5 hectare area of bushland within Fagan Park, Carrs Bush features several short trails with interpretive signage, picnic areas, barbecues and a playground.

There are over 120 species of native plants in Carrs Bush, including the endangered Sydney Turpentine – Ironbark. Birds, marsupials, amphibians, mammals and invertebrates take refuge here.

Important info about Fagan Park

There are two accessible / disabled toilets inside Fagan Park. One is located at the Arcadia Road main amenities block; and the other is located at the Carrs Road amenities block.

Small portable barbeques including charcoal are permitted under strict conditions.

There is a privately run kiosk selling light refreshments (open weekends and selected weekdays only). I would highly recommend that you bring your own food and water. The park is perfect for a long, luxurious picnic.

All barbeques within the park require $1 coins to operate.

There are two car parks, one off Arcadia Road at the main park entrance, and another off Carrs Road. Parking costs $6 per vehicle.

Dogs are permitted but must stay on a leash at all times.

There are many water birds living in Fagan Park. Please don’t feed them.