How to Explore Hyde Park, Sydney

Enjoy the lush greenery and many outdoor activities at Sydney’s oldest park

Hyde Park (named after its namesake in London) is a popular summertime hang out for both locals and tourists in Sydney City. In actual fact, the park is the city’s oldest, so it boasts a lengthy history as well as picturesque surroundings.

Park Street runs down the centre of Hyde Park, carving it up into northern and southern segments. To the south, the most popular attraction is the ANZAC memorial building and the visitor centre, as well as plenty of quirky monuments and statues to enjoy. To the north, there are ornate fountains to discover and a selection of themed gardens filled with public art and pretty flower species.

Things to do in Hyde Park, Sydney

The park is an ideal spot for those after a day in the sun, with many locals soaking up the sun on their lunch breaks, a picnic date, or even a day with the family. In addition, there are plenty of events that take place here throughout the year, with cultural events are the name of the game, with numerous festivals held in the peaceful grounds. If you visit at the right time, you might be able to catch the Sydney Festival, Australia Day celebrations, ANZAC Day festivities, or the Food and Wine Fair here.

• Take a Walk

  The expansive park is home to more than 580 mature exotic and native trees, making it the perfect place for a scenic run or a simple stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the urban city centre. Keep your eyes peeled for pretty flowers, as well as some local critters that might show their faces from time to time.

• Go Monument Hunting

  In the north of the park, there are tonnes of monuments to discover scattered about the park region. See the Archibald Fountain, which was a gift from JF Archibald to the city, featuring a giant water feature decorated with scenes from ancient mythology. Also nestled within is the Wellington Monument, a statue of Achilles serving as a memorial to Arthur Wellesley, who was the first duke of Wellington. You can even see the floor decoration of the Reformer’s Tree, which is the symbol which was used during the protests in 1866 by the Reform League, a group campaigning to give all adult men the right to vote.

• Take a Walk Down Memory Lane

  As the oldest park in Sydney, it makes sense that Hyde Park has some history to offer its visitors. Head to the southern section, and you’ll find plenty of other historic offerings. The heritage-listed ANZAC war Memorial is nestled here, featuring significant displays and structures which honor the fallen soldiers of past Australians. The Pool of Reflection as well is to honour these soilders, and is a still pool featuring poplars to the north of the building, and a cascading fountain to the south.

• Themed Gardens

  Back in the north, you can wander around pretty themed gardens like Sandringham and the Nagoya Gardens, which are decked out in public art, impressive monuments, and a smattering of peaceful water features.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.