Exploring the secret garden in Sydney’s Lavender Bay
Robyn Kennedy loves to explore and photograph Sydney and surrounds. Her blog Life Out & About has become a passion, sharing ideas for outings in and around Sydney - charming gardens, bush walks, art galleries and inspiring places to eat!
The Wendy Whiteley Secret Garden is one of the main attractions for visiting this beautiful area of Lavender Bay. By the water’s edge lies this hidden sanctuary. What was once a neglected and overgrown bushy wasteland has been transformed into an enchanting garden. Also, at the top of the garden is a picture perfect park with tall palms and inspiring views to the Harbour Bridge, CBD, Opera House and Luna Park.
While in the area it’s worth taking a walk along the Lavender Bay waterfront to Luna Park and Kirribilli, or alternatively head in the opposite direction to the quaint village suburb of McMahons Point.
Wendy Whiteley Secret Garden – Quirky sculptures and old collectibles. Image credit: Robyn Kennedy.
Wendy’s Secret Garden
The secret garden is an easy 10 minute walk from North Sydney station, best accessed via the stairs on Lavender St (opposite Walker St). For a more inspiring walk, take the Peter Kingston Walkway from Luna Park along the water’s edge. Peter is a local artist who has created the miniature sculptures displayed along the walkway.
Nestled into a small basin like area adjacent to Lavender Bay harbour and wharf, this intimate and charming garden is filled with quirky garden furniture, sculptures and old rusted collectibles. There are many private picnic spaces, all connected by hidden pathways lined with lush foliage, just waiting to be explored!
Eat and drink
When at Lavender Bay or Kirribilli we love to finish our outing with a walk through Luna Park and a drink at The Deck Bar and Restaurant. The Deck affords some spectacular views to the Harbour Bridge and beyond ~ it always amazes us that we find a table or stool right at the window. We’ve eaten here a number of times, the food is good but it’s the view and atmosphere that always bring us back to The Deck.
Ripples Restaurant at Milsons Pt is also a popular destination for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The food is very good and the views spectacular. I would recommend reserving a table.
If you’re looking for something more casual, a café for coffee or some tapas, just wander over to the village suburbs of Kirribilli or McMahons Pt, they offer a great selection of cafes and restaurants.
The Deck at Luna Park. Image credit: Robyn Kennedy.
Other Attractions
Luna Park
While you’re in the area it’s fun to wander through Luna Park, filled with bright lights, colour, laughter and squeals of delight. What better place to snap a few pics of the fun…or go for ride yourself!
North Sydney Pool
Situated above Luna Park and close to restaurants and walks. If you’re a keen swimmer or just planning to cool off after your walk you couldn’t find a more inspiring place than the North Sydney Olympic Pool. There’s also a small indoor heated pool above the Olympic pool, with spa and fabulous views to the city!
North Sydney architecture
Before heading down to Lavender Bay we often like to start our outing with a stroll around North Sydney CBD. The tall glass office towers offer some striking reflections of autumn and winter trees. There are also many restored cottages tucked away in the backstreets of North Sydney and Lavender Bay.
For gorgeous gardens and inspiring views, Lavender Bay is a go to location – enjoy!
Have you ever explored this beautiful corner of Sydney?
Hero image credit: Robyn Kennedy