Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden
Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden
Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden
5
About
Everyone needs a secret garden in their life and you’re invited to visit Wendy's, a public garden and much loved oasis in the heart of Sydney. Located a short walk over the Sydney Harbour Bridge, or stroll from Milsons Point and North Sydney train stations, the Secret Garden is a haven where you can explore meandering pathways discovering sculptures; enjoy a picnic basket or read a book at one of the tables beneath the garden’s canopy; or simply enjoy the nature and serenity of your beautiful surrounds. You may even stumble across a fairy. Created over 20 years by artist Wendy Whiteley, wife and muse of Australian artist Brett Whiteley, the Secret Garden is nestled behind Luna Park in one of Sydney's most spectacular suburbs, Lavender Bay. While its free and open seven days a week, there are steep inclines and a range of steps. Visitors with limited mobility may only be able to access the uppermost sections of the garden but we're sure you'll enjoy your visit.
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingTours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
Top ways to experience Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden and nearby attractions
The area
Address
How to get there
- North Sydney • 3 min walk
- Milsons Point • 9 min walk
Best nearby
Restaurants
3,845 within 3 miles
Attractions
751 within 6 miles
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
454 reviews
Excellent
355
Very good
92
Average
7
Poor
0
Terrible
0
Oldjack
Greater Melbourne, Australia27,268 contributions
Dec 2022
Located a short walk from ,and behind Lunar Park is a private park and garden that is a small patch of rain forest in the suburbs. The Whiteley's lived on the hill above the railway lands, having purchased the property in 1974 and on Brett's death in 1992, Wendy started work on reclaiming the railway lands below and turning it into an elaborate garden with paths and small secluded areas, with sculpture and seats. Well worth a visit and accessible by ferry to Milsons Point or train.
Written December 22, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Incidentally Sydney
Greater Sydney, Australia25 contributions
Nov 2019
Wendy's Secret Garden is a great place to just wander and the perfect spot for a picnic; close to the city centre, but far from its madding crowds.
If you’re visiting the garden with children I can think of no better place for a championship round of hide and seek. And there are tables and chairs aplenty for a family picnic.
You can enter the park via the steps on Walker St, though Clark Park, or by climbing the stairs opposite the Lavender Bay jetty. The huge Moreton Bay Fig (which featured in many of Brett Whiteley’s paintings), acts as a grand gateway to the garden which spills out at its feet.
Many have noted and I agree, that the garden seems to hug you as you enter it, descending the stairs down from the fig. And if you come in the quiet early morning, before the crowds, you can feel like you have it all to yourself and get lost in its magic.
Wendy Whitely has created a wonderful treasure in this garden; a living, thriving work of art. And though she’s in her mid seventies now she can often still be seen here, scarfed and muddy handed, pottering around among the plants.
If you’re visiting the garden with children I can think of no better place for a championship round of hide and seek. And there are tables and chairs aplenty for a family picnic.
You can enter the park via the steps on Walker St, though Clark Park, or by climbing the stairs opposite the Lavender Bay jetty. The huge Moreton Bay Fig (which featured in many of Brett Whiteley’s paintings), acts as a grand gateway to the garden which spills out at its feet.
Many have noted and I agree, that the garden seems to hug you as you enter it, descending the stairs down from the fig. And if you come in the quiet early morning, before the crowds, you can feel like you have it all to yourself and get lost in its magic.
Wendy Whitely has created a wonderful treasure in this garden; a living, thriving work of art. And though she’s in her mid seventies now she can often still be seen here, scarfed and muddy handed, pottering around among the plants.
Written August 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
jennydowell
Lismore, Australia310 contributions
Jun 2022 • Solo
A wonderful spot for quiet contemplation or active exploration with glimpses of the busy harbour. Free access and open every day. If you love gardens, this is a place to go. Construction of the north Sydney baths and the closure of Luna park meant that access was a little different but the extra walk was well worth it.
Written July 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Helen M
Sippy Downs, Australia13 contributions
Feb 2023 • Couples
A beautiful peaceful garden to visit with amazing views of the harbour. Not suitable for anyone with walking limitations or for strollers, walking frames, walking sticks etc.
Take a thermos and morning tea for the perfect outing.
Take a thermos and morning tea for the perfect outing.
Written March 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Rotiman1
Sydney, Australia1,575 contributions
May 2021 • Couples
Enjoyed a relaxed walk and explore of the garden. It is much more extensive than it looks from above, with meandering paths and nooks and crannies hiding artworks. It was a great place to sit and contemplate what Wendy Whitely has achieved through determination, hard work and vision. It is a great gift to Sydney. The harbour views are an added bonus.
A further bonus is the exit to the Harbourside walkway with its small statues celebrating Australians children literature.
A further bonus is the exit to the Harbourside walkway with its small statues celebrating Australians children literature.
Written May 17, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Jeffcreek
Grosse Ile, MI100 contributions
Jan 2020
Nice little garden area to have a picnic. It is not really hidden but not many people know about it so it is a bit more private. Lots of trails, some picnic tables and chairs. Beautiful surroundings. It is close to Lavender Bay and you will really enjoy a nice lunch here. Bring everything you need. There is no food provided.
Written January 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
M4verick14
Sydney, Australia38 contributions
Mar 2021 • Couples
This was the perfect way to start a romantic Sunday.
We arrived around 9am or a little before and the garden was virtually empty. Queue many photo opportunities and discussions about future visits to enjoy picnics and the possibility of hosting a wedding in the garden (we aren’t engaged as yet but maybe it’s just the magic of the garden...). Every little nook and cranny of the garden is just beautiful. And what better way to start the day than gorgeous harbour views as the sun rises.
I’ve also been told I need to buy us a house in Lavender Bay to go with that preemptive wedding so I imagine if I’m that fortunate I’ll be here on the daily
We arrived around 9am or a little before and the garden was virtually empty. Queue many photo opportunities and discussions about future visits to enjoy picnics and the possibility of hosting a wedding in the garden (we aren’t engaged as yet but maybe it’s just the magic of the garden...). Every little nook and cranny of the garden is just beautiful. And what better way to start the day than gorgeous harbour views as the sun rises.
I’ve also been told I need to buy us a house in Lavender Bay to go with that preemptive wedding so I imagine if I’m that fortunate I’ll be here on the daily
Written March 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Manickjg
1,388 contributions
Jul 2022
Came here more than 10 years ago and even at that time we were so thrilled by the discovery of this little garden in the middle of North Sydney. Our second time did not disappoint. Such a lovely spot with million dollar views. A great place for all ages. Lots of pathways and seating areas to sit down and enjoy the space and moment. Definitely worth a visit. It's not wheelchair accessible due to the terrain.
Written August 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Polley
Ashfield, Australia288 contributions
Dec 2021 • Couples
We ripped into Loulou for some coffee and croissants and walked down to this little sanctuary in the city. How amazing! It was raining so we took shelter under the canopy looking out over Lavender Bay. Bush Turkey babies everywhere and not scared of humans. A beautiful rainforest, wow
Written December 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
tevorolevu
Ottawa, Canada239 contributions
Jan 2023
Marvellous what the volunteers have done here. Thanks to Ms Whitely for all her efforts over the years. I always tell friends about this place when they are walking around the shore, Luna Park and Lavender Bay. There are seats and plenty of shade. Pathways are well maintained. Keep in mind a few might be a little steep. There is an RSL just at the top of the hill as well.
Written January 12, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Smileymelly70
Drummoyne, Australia35 contributions
Are dogs allowed in this garden
Teresa C
Metro Manila, Philippines1,403 contributions
Yes
Hi, We are staying near to the Opera House later in the year. Would we be able to walk over the bridge to the gardens or is it too far? Also, are there any other places to visit near to the gardens?
Flipper9593
Sydney, Australia54 contributions
Yes, its a good walk over the bridge- probably take you 20- 30 minutes depending on what pace you're going at.
The other fun place just close by and especially if you have children with you in Luna Park. Wendy's Garden is surrounded by beautiful parks, and you could just sit in the grounds with a picnic and watch the sunset.
There's also a sweet modern Indian restaurant at the top of the garden which is open for dinner from 5 pm called Lavendra, which is at 5, Walker Street.
Goingwell2019
California53 contributions
staying in St Leonards near train station. should we walk to the garden or take the train to the North Sydney stop?
raura
Canberra, Australia604 contributions
I would catch the train. A long walk from St Leonards.
Katie_em
Sydney, Australia58 contributions
Got a question about visiting Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden?
Visit our website for directions, accessibility and other Frequently Asked Questions.
pappi_chris
Brisbane, Australia50 contributions
Unsure of question sorry?
sallyherath
Mildura, Australia
is there a cafe or restaurant on site?
Katie_em
Sydney, Australia58 contributions
There are plenty of cafes, restaurants and pubs within close walking distance in Milsons Point, McMahons Point and Kirribilli. If you visit the Wendys Secret Garden website you can find links to local eateries.
Is it free entry?
Vikki P
Gold Coast, Australia65 contributions
Sorry, so long ago you asked the question!
Yes it is free
RinnoTuatagaloa
Kurunjang47 contributions
Is OK to go as a group, would be about maybe 80 people kids and adults? If so do you think we can drive there on a bus??
bpmsmith
Sydney, Australia6 contributions
North Sydney Council requires bookings for all groups at the Wendy Whiteley garden.
Further details can be found at the North Sydney Council website > Recreation & Facilities > Parks & Reserves > Parks & Reserves Hire & Fees
Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden (North Sydney) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden
- We recommend booking Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 3 Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden:
- (0.18 mi) View Sydney
- (0.27 mi) Meriton Suites North Sydney
- (0.34 mi) Vibe Hotel North Sydney
- (0.47 mi) Quest North Sydney
- (0.20 mi) The Manere
- Restaurants near Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden:
- (0.01 mi) The Foliage Cafe
- (0.02 mi) Sandwich Works and Coffee Bar
- (0.02 mi) Blues Gourmet
- (0.07 mi) Chedi Thai
- (0.11 mi) Zinger Taj indian Cuisine