DK Travel : Sydney : Botanic Gardens & The Domain

Botanic Gardens & The Domain

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Australia’s oldest scientific institution, the gorgeous Botanic Gardens was established in 1816 by Governor Macquarie. Its idyllic setting on Farm Cove overlooking the harbour makes it an oasis in the heart of Sydney. In 1788, Governor Phillip established Sydney’s first farm on these slopes and used the grassy Domain as his private garden. The historically rich grounds were the city’s first park, now home to Government House, artistic institutions, and, of course, extensive flora and fauna.
During the Sydney Festival, call 1300 366 649 for details of the Open Air Cinema.

Top 10 Attractions

1. Mrs Macquarie’s Chair

This sandstone bench was carved in 1816 for the governor’s wife, Elizabeth Macquarie. The landmark offers breathtaking views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and Fort Denison.
2. Andrew “Boy” Charlton Pool

Named for a 16-year-old Olympic winner, this glorious 50-m (164-ft) pool overlooks Woolloomooloo Bay and Garden Island. Its patrons take their laps and suntans seriously, but the toddlers’ pool is perfect for those who just want to dip their toes.
3. Wollemi Pine

Discovered in 1994 in a Blue Mountains canyon, this botanical curiosity was earlier thought to be extinct. The Botanic Garden’s specimen was planted in 1998.
4. Cadi Jam Ora: First Encounters

This award-winning presentation of the Eora people’s story offers an intriguing look at white settlement, Sydney’s environment, and the Eora’s spiritual connection with their land.
5. Palm House

James Barnet (see Martin Place) is thought to have designed this quaint 1876 glasshouse, once housing tropical plants. It is now a nice venue for art exhibitions and educational displays.
6. Art Gallery of New South Wales

The AGNSW contains exhibits from the Garden Palace, which burned down in 1882.
7. Sydney Tropical Centre

7. Sydney Tropical Centre

Tropical ecosystems are recreated in the centre’s two glasshouses , the Pyramid and the Arc. The Pyramid features Australian natives, while the Arc houses the “exotics”. Follow the walkways up to the canopy level to admire plants from the tropics.
8. Conservatorium of Music

Designed by Francis Greenway, this building was one of the first casualties of the enquiry into the cost of Macquarie’s public works. “The Con” has been training future musicians since 1915.
9. Government House

Gipps was the first governor to occupy this Gothic Revival structure in 1845. It ceased to be the governor’s residence in 1996, and the house and grounds are now open to the public.
10. Walks & Tours

The Botanic Garden’s enthusiastic volunteers conduct free tours which depart from the Visitor Information Centre at 10:30am and 1pm Mon–Fri, except Dec–Feb. There are also self-guided walks focused on art, sculpture and the Aboriginal heritage: pick up a map from the Information Centre before you embark on an educational stroll.

Practical Information

The Poolside Café at the “Boy” Charlton Pool has baguettes and light lunches. During the Sydney Festival, the Open Air Cinema makes for a a lovely evening. Botanic Gardens: Mrs Macquarie’s Rd open 7am–sunset daily www.rbgsyd.gov.au Visitor Information Centre: 9231 8125 Open 9:30am–4:30pm daily Andrew “Boy” Charlton Pool: Mrs Macquarie’s Rd; 9358 6686; Open 6am–7pm daily; adult/child $5/$3.50 Sydney Tropical Centre: 9231 8104; Open 10am–4pm daily; Adm Conservatorium of Music: 9351 1222 Open 9am–5pm Mon–Fri, 9am–4pm Sat Government House: 9931 5222; House open 10:30am–3pm Fri–Sun (Tours every half hour from 10:30am), Grounds open 10am–4pm daily