Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden image

Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden

Tourist attraction โ€ข Park โ€ข Garden

One of the Top rated Parks in Sydney


Address

Lavender St, Lavender Bay NSW 2060, Australia

Website

www.wendyssecretgarden.org.au

Contact

+61 2 9936 8100

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (2.9K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Monday: Open 24 hours
  • Tuesday: Open 24 hours
  • Wednesday: Open 24 hours
  • Thursday: Open 24 hours
  • Friday: Open 24 hours
  • Saturday: Open 24 hours
  • Sunday: Open 24 hours

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: garden (56) Sydney (31) views (22) beautiful (22) picnic (19) hidden (18) walk (17) Wendy (17) city (15) visit (15)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Sharon J. 2 years ago on Google
    Oh my gosh, this is just a garden delight. So many wonderful statues here. Tables and chairs for you to sit and relax too. So take a drink & sandwich and just take it all in. Best part about this huge garden- itโ€™s free for all to go for a walk in. Thank you to Mrs Whitely. Also so you know the council do the maintenance beyond. Great work guys ๐Ÿ‘โ€ข
    8 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 4/5 John W. 2 years ago on Google
    Fantastic views of Sydney Harbour from the north. A very well-maintained garden that is clean, shaded, and has a lot of vertical depth. Suitable for picnics or a nice family stroll. A lot of bush turkeys to keep you company.
    6 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Naomi E. 1 year ago on Google
    Just like the name implies, it's like you are visiting a secret garden tucked away in the city. It felt so relaxing and there were so many different areas and places to sit back and relax. Some spots had views of the water and bridge, others were just beautiful plants and trees.
    5 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Carol Y. 10 months ago on Google
    What a lovely space. Careful of the steps & paths - uneven & potentially slippery. Lovely views of Sydney Harbour with nooks & crannies to have a little rest.
    5 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Borui L. 5 months ago on Google
    I recently had the pleasure of visiting Wendy Whiteleyโ€™s Secret Garden, and it was an enchanting experience. Nestled in the heart of Sydney, this hidden gem is a true oasis of tranquility and beauty. The garden, lovingly maintained, offers a lush escape from the urban hustle. Every path leads to a delightful surprise, be it a unique sculpture or a serene spot to sit and reflect. The attention to detail in the landscaping is commendable, creating a space that feels both wild and artfully curated. Itโ€™s a perfect spot for a peaceful walk, a quiet read, or simply to soak in the natural beauty. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a serene retreat in the city.
    4 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Paul H. 1 year ago on Google
    This garden is an absolute hidden gem situated in the Lower North Shore of Sydney. It is a delight to walk around and there are plenty of paths to walk along giving the opportunity to look at some beautiful trees and native plants. It also offers great views of the Harbour Bridge. An ideal place to take a picnic and spend a relaxing couple of hours.
    4 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Nurse N. 2 years ago on Google
    Cute hidden gardens, perfect for picnics, a little walk, or a breath of fresh air. Mostly just lush greenery (no flowers) and has several seating arrangements hidden throughout. Very quiet spot, not many people there. Lots of stairs walking down in to the garden, not good for people with balance issues. Spent about an hour walking through it taking time. Dirt floors as well, don't wear white shoes!
    4 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 ลukasz T. 1 year ago on Google
    What a beautiful spot, so close to the Harbour Bridge. It's a small park (rather garden) with a lot of gorgeous paths among different kind of plants.
    3 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 4/5 Enid S. 1 year ago on Google
    Probably not such a big secret. We enjoyed Wendy's Secret Garden. It's a beautiful and relaxing spot in the city. Lots of nooks and crannies to have quiet time. We came close up to a Kookaburra chilling on the bench. Pack a little picnic basket - there are several lovely spots The garden is free for all to enjoy.
    3 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Andreas L. 1 year ago on Google
    What a hidden gem in Lavender bay. Close to Luna park. Follow the walk way, cross the dark tunnel under the rail line and climb the steep stairs. You shall be rewarded with a magic garden. Countless paths, pick nick areas and loads of greenery. A hidden treasure.
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Mark T. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful parkland, under a canopy of luscious greenery and beautiful trees... hopefully next year the flowers will be in place to bloom like the years prior to covid. Enjoy the many pathways to explore, most with benches, tables and chairs to enjoy a picnic or a chat, some with a view of the bay. Entry is free. No toilets however some 5 minutes away from certain areas of the park. Nearby streets have metered pay parking, approx $6 p/hour. 2 to 3 hours with a picnic would be recommended.
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 VG T. 1 year ago on Google
    Lovely garden easily found by following the boardwalk around Luna Park, through tunnel under rail line. Lots of shady picnic tables. Great view to Harbour Bridge. Has 1 swing, no toilets. Take all rubbish with you and clean up after your dog. Beautiful plants. Peaceful.
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Nermin M. 2 years ago on Google
    Lovely place with nice views to harbour. You can have a mini picnic as there are many private areas to sit and enjoy
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 4/5 John k. 7 months ago on Google
    One of the most spectacular public gardens in Sydney, Wendyโ€™s Secret Garden has been developed over the past 20 years by artist Wendy Whiteley, wife and muse of Australiaโ€™s eminent artist Brett Whiteley. Wendyโ€™s Secret Garden โ€“โ€ฏwhich is no longer a secret! โ€“ is nestled in Lavender Bay, just a short walk from the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Wendy has been developing her much-loved oasis since the mid-1990s. This is a haven where locals and visitors can explore the tiered gardens with flowering plants, as well as views to the Harbour Bridge. Explore pathways that reveal striking sculptures that range from fine works to rustic pieces. Enjoy a picnic or relax at one of the tables or benches
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Dhananjay R. 7 months ago on Google
    Cool secret peaceful place in the heart of the city. Very near the shoreline. Shaded garden, very noise free, leafy trees. Descending stairs made from old tree wood. Dirt slopes to go down. One can sit here for hours and gaze at the trees and beautiful scented flowers. Old artifacts kept here as decorations are so charming.
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Alice M. 5 months ago on Google
    Free entry to this beautiful garden with grand views of Sydney Harbour Bridge. Winding pathways through subtropical trees and flowers with seating along the shady edges.
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 The M. 7 months ago on Google
    A late & rushed visit to this secret garden on Sun 10 Sep recently. This garden has been featured on quite a few gardening shows & articles. Quiet & tranquil it is Not! Abuts the Luna Park in one corner - as such you can hear the shrieks & screams of park patrons on joy rides. Views from the top & through the canopy of trees & foliage is a visual treat. It looks like an ordinary palm fringed narrow long park from the road & the hint to what's hidden beyond - a sheer drop into the embankment - is the wild brush turkeys' sudden appearance chasing each other onto the road! The address on google is Lavender St but a quicker entry is opposite Kirribilli RSL Club on Harbourview Crescent. From here - it is a pretty steep narrow path with rustic branch balustrade to hold on to - zigzags haphazardly down to the old railway line over the fence. It feels like being deep in forest canopy except for the noise from Luna Park, glimpses of water views & fringed by residences. Dotted with whimsical & often kitsch artworks & sculptures - some good & some whatever??, garden is very engaging nevertheless...There are table/chair settings for picnic here & there but bring wipes to clean them first! No sign of toilets. Possible wheelchair access from another point of entry but be prepared for uphill return. Appreciate the mammoth effort over the years to transform what must have been a fairly barren rocky terrain into a fertile cool oasis with huge Moreton Bay figs & shade loving underplantings. Have to vist again & spend more time. But an hour at least to see all.
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 orange_tree_au 6 months ago on Google
    Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden is a lush oasis with some lovely views of the city skyline. These photos are taken from the small park in Kirribilli, a short walk from Loulou's Bistro. Walk down a few steps to enter the garden proper.
    2 people found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Manas T. 8 months ago on Google
    It's hard to believe this secret is in heart of Sydney. Walkways are beautiful and some chairs if you want to sit and adore this blissful place.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 4/5 Jay A. 3 years ago on Google
    Great views and lovely little art pieces on hidden locations. Lots of steps but taker it slow you'll be true
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Deborah L. 2 years ago on Google
    Serene experience... beautiful garden tucked away in the heart of the city for peaceful getaway.. love the miniature toys and figurines placed randomly ..
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Tim O. 1 year ago on Google
    WSG is an amazing โ€œgardenโ€ secretly constructed by Wendy Whitley (in the 1990s?). It covers sloping land to the rail and harbour. Itโ€™s everything most public places in Sydney are not - not formal or official, no H&S adherence for paths or rails (they are made from bits of tree), and not known about by most people. Come here for a quite picnic with your family! Amazing views across the harbour too.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Yao X. 4 years ago on Google
    Extremely peaceful garden perfect for taking a stroll or a picnic. One of my favourite spots in Sydney. It's small but condensed with cuteness and warm touches of details. From the higher levels of the garden, you have a view of Sydney harbour and the Harbour Bridge. You can access this park both from the water side and Lavender Road.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Ashley D. 2 years ago on Google
    Magical little hidden gem! Well worth a visit and a wander through the winding paths of the gardens.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Brett A. 7 months ago on Google
    Beautiful garden full of surprises and reflective of the passions of the people involved in maintains it. Great views and a tiny beach ๐Ÿ๏ธ
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Michael W. 2 years ago on Google
    Perfect place to take a walk and relax! There are so many ways to explore the plants and crafts in this beautiful garden. Definitely worth a visit. I am happy to just sit there for a whole afternoon and enjoy the garden and harbour view, quiet and calming vibe and the fresh air.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 jason d. 8 months ago on Google
    Fantastic spot to spend an hour or two just a stones throw from Lavender Bay and the harbour. There are a couple of entrances at the bottom of Clark Park that lead you down a few steps and into the garden. Very well set out with paths and steps and quite a few areas with garden furniture (tables and chairs) which were being used by people having a picnic lunch (great idea). Standing down in the garden it's hard to believe you're so close to the hustle and bustle of the CBD. A credit to all who played a part in creating this space and to those who continue to maintain it.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Nisha J. 7 months ago on Google
    A perfect 10/10 hidden place in Sydney. I absolutely loved this place. The view of the harbour bridge and a secret garden to walk on is what I call a perfect place to be when you are a person who loves peace and quiet places. For a small group of people is an absolute way to go. You can have a small picnic or lay in the sun with your books on.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 Aashleigh R. 9 months ago on Google
    Must visit. Best place for a romantic experience. Be careful of spiders just in case.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 5/5 David F. 9 months ago on Google
    A tranquil and unique spot in the middle of the hustle and bustle of Sydney. Lovingly maintained by local volunteers. A must see.
    1 person found this review helpful ๐Ÿ‘

  • 3/5 B C. 2 years ago on Google
    Beautiful hidden gem on the outskirts of North Sydney Sweeping views of the harbour and gorgeous garden setting for coffee and croissantโ€™s

  • 5/5 Marcelle A. 2 years ago on Google
    Delightful peaceful spot at Lavender Bay. Terraced garden with picnic tables and gorgeous views over the Bay and Sydney Bridge.

  • 5/5 Trang L. 2 years ago on Google
    A hidden garden just 5 minutes away from Milson Point train station. This garden is a combined art space filled with various sculptures and plenty greenery. A great place to just sit down, enjoy the vibe and relax.

  • 5/5 Yousef D. 1 year ago on Google
    If you're looking for a little slice of paradise in the heart of Sydney, look no further than Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden. Tucked away in Lavender Bay, this stunning oasis is a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. As soon as you step foot inside the garden, you'll be transported to a magical world of lush greenery, winding paths, and serene water features. Every corner of the garden is carefully curated, with beautiful blooms and hidden nooks just waiting to be discovered. What makes Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden even more special is its fascinating backstory. The garden was created by artist Brett Whiteley's wife, Wendy, as a way to honor his memory and create a space where people could come together and connect with nature. Today, the garden is a testament to Wendy's creativity and passion, and a true labor of love. One of the highlights of the garden is its stunning views of Sydney Harbour. As you wander through the foliage, you'll catch glimpses of the iconic Harbour Bridge and Opera House, reminding you that you're still in the heart of the city. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Sydney, or simply want to soak up some natural beauty, Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden is the perfect destination. Make sure to bring a camera and plenty of time to explore โ€“ you won't want to leave!

  • 5/5 Katarzyna J. 1 year ago on Google
    It is public space the Garden is free of charge. Whether you want to surprise your lover with a romantic picnic or take time out from your hectic Sydney explorations, the garden is divine. Itโ€™s very easy to forget youโ€™re in a massive city and have a beutifull view. Place where can slow down after busy time. There are benches and chairs to relaks. I really enjoyed my experience there.

  • 5/5 nat b. 1 year ago on Google
    What an amazing garden! I discover something different every time we visit. Love zig zag paths that are sometimes dead ends, statues, sculptures and repurposed things like bath tub filled with plants. I think kids must love this place as it sparks imagination and if fairies do exist they most likely could be found here. It is remarkable how place that was once rubbish dump and overgrown with weeds, today is community garden thanks to Wendy Whiteley , her two gardeners and many volunteers.

  • 5/5 Bon C. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful park, this is my favorite thing to do in Sydney and perhaps my favorite park in any city. Gorgeous fauna and hidden winding paths. Loads of tables and chairs available in the shade to have a picnic with friends and right on the harbor with a view of the bridge.

  • 5/5 Angus B. 3 years ago on Google
    Lovely place for a afternoon in the sun

  • 5/5 derek w. 9 months ago on Google
    This is an absolutely stupendous find. Just round the bay from Luna Park. The garden cascades down the hill. It is full of switch back paths, crazy bits of art and the most glorious garden. We spent an hour or so and could have stayed linger. There are gigantic trees, picnic tables and little knick knacks to find amongst the shrubbery. Such a lovely thing to have been given to the people of Sydney. Highly recommend a visit. Take the ferry or take the train. It is a short scenic walk from both. Nearby is the lively Comics Walk, and the Lavender Bay promenade.

  • 5/5 Krista N. 10 months ago on Google
    the secret garden is my favourite movie of all time, so this was very neat to visit. it just sort of sprawls and then suddenly thereโ€™s a tunnel that takes you to lavender bay. absolutely stunning!

  • 5/5 Lasaration 4 months ago on Google
    From the shore of Quibaree Park I ventured up to Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden and strummed along the greenery and spender that Wendy made from what was weeds and waste. People were sitting having a picnic in tree shaded spots and why not, its made for living! Some areas are steep so walking along the footpaths created is recommended. Lovely views everywhere here. On a sunny day its worth visiting when in Sydney. Thank you Wendy for making this place possible and available for this to be shared.

  • 5/5 Ensley K. 6 months ago on Google
    This garden was absolutely better than Royal botanic garden for me. Quiet, cozy but it had a quite great view of the city. Actually I surprised there was a jungle like this point. How I envy Sydney citizens who can always enjoy like this place !

  • 4/5 Marg B. 5 months ago on Google
    We enjoyed the peace & lushness of this informal garden - it is great that it is a public space so free to visit, close to the city & harbour, yet so tranquil. Paths are unpaved & quite steep, so wouldn't suit prams, wheelchairs or mobility issues.

  • 5/5 cindy c. 5 months ago on Google
    A beautiful garden that matches its name. Built with love, the garden has a wide variety of plants on a slope that gives one the most amazing view of Sydney. Read the story of why and how Wendy Whiteley did the garden before you visit to appreciate it's beauty

  • 5/5 Daniel K. 3 years ago on Google
    Lovely walk. We had a picnic here again and loved it again. It is free and easy to find.

  • 5/5 Arri R. 3 years ago on Google
    So cute and wholesome!

  • 5/5 Theresia H. 3 years ago on Google
    Very nice and beautiful place

  • 5/5 Teresa C. 3 years ago on Google
    A wonderful secret

  • 5/5 Nicholas P. 3 years ago on Google
    Wounderful such a gift to sydney

  • 5/5 Gordy F. 3 years ago on Google
    A tranquil, tiny breath of fresh air

  • 3/5 Edward R. 3 years ago on Google
    Not so secret any more.

  • 4/5 Nic N. 3 years ago on Google
    Over crowded and busy but nice

  • 5/5 Laura M. 3 years ago on Google
    Such a beautiful little hidden gem in the middle of the busy city. I love it here. It feels like everything slows down when you step in and you can truly breathe and enjoy the moment.

  • 5/5 Sharon C. 3 years ago on Google
    Wonderful relaxing oasis in the middle of the city, beautiful gardens and walks, I highly recommend you visit

  • 5/5 Victoria M. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful!

  • 5/5 Sahar F. 3 years ago on Google
    Peaceful and amazing view to very own Sydney harbour Bridge too. ?

  • 5/5 Lu F. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice place for a walk, beautiful and peaceful

  • 5/5 Eshlie A. 3 years ago on Google
    Definitely a hidden gem of Sydney that has a beautiful history as well. Itโ€™s been quite busy as of late but thereโ€™s still enough space for everyone to explore and enjoy the greenery and the beautiful views of the harbour. Worth getting off at North Sydney and taking the backstreets, then taking a stroll to Luna Park.

  • 5/5 saroj a. 4 years ago on Google
    Very peace and perfect place to chill and watch the view of beautiful Darling harbour and beautiful opera house. Quiete a silent and peaceful environment. Good to chill at evening time with friends or Alone doesn't Matter as long as You Enjoy the company ???

  • 5/5 aldnane a. 3 years ago on Google
    wonderful place. unexpectedly intriguing place to visit!! :s

  • 5/5 Anna Y. 3 years ago on Google
    What a stunning little garden, hidden away , beautiful spot to take young children to explore. Not forgetting the stunning views

  • 4/5 Kenneth L. 3 years ago on Google
    Good short walk for after meal walk and family wall.

  • 5/5 Stephen B. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautifully maintained quiet park with great views and lots of cute walking tracks youโ€™ll get lost in (in a good way!) Awesome views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and CBD skyline. A must visit if youโ€™re visiting Sydney. Super cute history being that the owners of the land donated it to council to be used as a public park.

  • 5/5 Lina B. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place that is kept by the residents. It won a prize for that. Lot of comfy tables and chairs to sit down and enjoy your meal.

  • 5/5 Fabian F. 4 years ago on Google
    What a gorgeous place, and despite the central location and the high number of tourists it still feels secluded and romantically privat. The name โ€œsecret gardenโ€ definitely is appropriate and I love coming here in the afternoon to enjoy a moment of tranquility. The view also is spectacular, allowing a panorama perspective upon the Harbour Bridge and Luna Park.

  • 5/5 Sangchan Y. 3 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Secret garden hiding in the city center It's good for a picnic and a good date spot. Walk through the secret garden and walk towards Luna Park at sunset. (Original) ๋„์‹ฌ์†์— ์ˆจ์–ด ์žˆ๋Š” ๋น„๋ฐ€์ •์› ํ”ผํฌ๋‹‰ํ•˜๊ธฐ ์ข‹๊ณ  ๋ฐ์ดํŠธ ์žฅ์†Œ๋กœ๋„ ์ข‹๋‹ค. ์‹œํฌ๋ฆฟ ๊ฐ€๋“ ์„ ์ง€๋‚˜ ํ•ด์งˆ๋…˜์— ๋ฃจ๋‚˜ํŒŒํฌ์ชฝ์œผ๋กœ ๊ฑธ์–ด๋ณด์ž.

  • 5/5 Garry R. 3 years ago on Google
    A delightful place to visit 50 steps up from Milsons Point and the best views of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. If you are riding a bike, you need to carry it up like I did or secure it at the bottom or the top of the stairs.

  • 5/5 Zaq D. 3 years ago on Google
    Beautiful secluded place

  • 5/5 Tim C. 3 years ago on Google
    Lots of hidden areas

  • 5/5 Shane M. 3 years ago on Google
    Not behd good size

  • 5/5 Kaihlee R. 3 years ago on Google
    The most beautiful, natural park I have seen in Sydney. And such a cool story as to how the garden was started as a project to regain some control after she grieved her husband's death. She was never paid to create the garden but I would say it is even more gorgeous and thought out than any city-planned garden. Wendy and her husband Brett both sound like amazing people.

  • 5/5 giulia c. 3 years ago on Google
    I love the view from here

  • 5/5 Fabio Attilio D. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice place to visit

  • 5/5 Euan S. 3 years ago on Google
    As a local I didn't even know it was here until last week, it is a very lovely garden that the public seems to have done well to respect. It's a good place to sit down and have a rest after or during a walk, or even sit down and have a quick self provided lunch.

  • 5/5 Michael T. 3 years ago on Google
    Great for families and contemplation

  • 5/5 Charalambos K. 3 years ago on Google
    Amazing views

  • 5/5 Brad H. 3 years ago on Google
    Well worth visiting. You would not think you were in the middle of the city.

  • 5/5 Emma D. 3 years ago on Google
    Was a great secluded spot for lunch etc. Very pretty

  • 5/5 casa p. 3 years ago on Google
    A favourite destination on a Sunday afternoon, particularly in Springtime.

  • 5/5 Pratik B. 3 years ago on Google
    Loved it.

  • 5/5 Warrick H. 3 years ago on Google
    Lovely spot . Hidden away and peaceful

  • 4/5 Tasesl R. 3 years ago on Google
    Perfect for a quiet ramble any time of day. Huge shady trees and a variety of plants, interspersed with artefacts, make it a very attractive place.

  • 5/5 Toni F. 3 years ago on Google
    Paradise in the middle of Sydney, beautifully kept too

  • 5/5 MIA K. 3 years ago on Google
    A must!

  • 5/5 craig b. 3 years ago on Google
    Harbourside haven - a labour of love. Really enjoyed visiting this place. Even on a winter's it's worth a visit. I can imagine sitting here with a book in summer and just soaking up the tranquillity.

  • 5/5 suraj a. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice place to spend a stress-free day.


Call +61 2 9936 8100 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Pets
    • โœ“๏ธ Dogs allowed
  • Activities
    • โœ“๏ธ Hiking
  • Accessibility
    • โœ— Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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