Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden

Garden · Lavender Bay ·

Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden

Garden · Lavender Bay ·

Romantic artist-created garden with harbour views & picnics

Information

Lavender St, Lavender Bay NSW 2060, Australia Get directions

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,699 Cities

"Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden Over the past 15 years, Wendy Whiteley (known as the "goddess muse" and wife of one of Australia 's most famous artists, Brett Whiteley) has lovingly restored a once derelict piece of land, owned by the NSW Rail Corporation. It's a magical place to reflect, talk or read and to simply get away from the city's noise. The views are spectacular. About 5-10 mins stroll from Luna Park. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wendy_Whiteley#Wendy.27s_Secret_Garden This site was visited during AFAR Experiences, May 6-9, 2013: http://www.afarexperiences.com/"

Where to Find the Best Views of Sydney Harbour

Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden

@cntraveler

41,698 Postcards · 5,568 Cities

16 Best Parks in Sydney | Condé Nast Traveler

"Hidden in Lavender Bay Parklands on Sydney’s Lower North Shore, Wendy’s Secret Garden is a magical spot. Originally a guerilla garden tended by local artist Wendy Whiteley—wife and muse of famous late avant-garde artist Brett Whiteley—its future has been secured as a free public park. Celebrated in Janet Hawley’s 2015 book Wendy Whiteley and the Secret Garden , this hush-hush haven is heavenly. Formerly overgrown derelict government railway land, the garden is a labor of love created over 20 years by Wendy. Fueled by grief after the deaths of Brett and later her daughter Arkie, Wendy transformed the space into a living artwork. Towering trees, wild shrubs, lush planting, and vibrant tropical flowers animate this steep, gully oasis, strewn with artifacts with spectacular views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and sparkly harbor." - Sophie Davies

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-parks-in-sydney

Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden

@philtoronto

545 Postcards · 110 Cities

🇦🇺 sydney 🦘

yelp

Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden

@silverkris

9,971 Postcards · 2,269 Cities

Here's how Sydney's harbour spaces are going green - SilverKris

"A subtropical foreshore oasis planted in the mid-1990s by the former wife of artist Brett Whiteley, this tucked-away garden is threaded with Moreton Bay fig trees, ferns and bangalow palms that attract rainbow-bright rosella birds and wide-eyed picnickers. Framed by leafy canopies, visitors are rewarded with mosaic-like harbour views — fragments of blue water, bobbing sailboats and distant city landmarks — making it a quietly theatrical spot for contemplation and photography." - Neha Kale

https://silverkris.singaporeair.com/inspiration/nature-adventure/ecotourism/sydney-harbour-spaces-going-green/

Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden

Casandra T.

Google

The entrance can be a little hard to find but definitely worth looking for. It is close to Milsons Point or North Sydney train station. The garden itself has some beautiful spots, some hidden to have something to eat and drink or to just take in the beauty of the garden. The plant life and trees are both interesting and beautiful. There are some interesting statues, and Wendy’s house is lovely. It is situated right by the train line with glimpses of the harbour. it is not advisable for people with walking disabilities as there are a number of stairs and some of them are quite rugged. this really is a beautiful garden and definitely worth visiting. Oh, and look out for the bush turkeys as they will try and steal your food.

Nan J.

Google

Wendy’s Secret Garden is a very special and meaningful place. You can really feel the love and devotion behind it. The garden is full of life, with plants growing freely and creating a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere. It’s a beautiful spot to slow down and reflect. Just be prepared — the paths can be a little overgrown in some areas, but that’s also part of its natural charm. Definitely worth a visit if you appreciate quiet places with a story behind them.

Khanh T.

Google

Nice little garden that you can visit, walk around enjoying nature and also has a good view toward the iconic building of Sydney. There are few areas that have chairs, tables, rocks to sit on and enjoy the view which is pretty nice to have. The garden is well maintained.

Two Meow M.

Google

This is the place I want to visit whether I’m feeling down or joyful — a sanctuary that purifies the soul. Like the name, it’s a secret garden by the bay, it opens up into wide, breathtaking views of Sydney’s skyline, harbor, sailboats, and landscape. It’s a spot that truly clears your mind: you can take a peaceful 20-minute stroll through the garden and along the water, or spend two hours simply sitting by the shore, soaking in the scenery. An absolutely perfect place to relax and unwind.

Kasuni S.

Google

This is a quiet and calm environment who seeks to escape from busy city vibes. The garden is full of green and it is a beautiful place to be in the evenings. Can be accessed easily by public transport. And you can see a nice angle of the harbour bridge.

Katy J.

Google

Cute local park near work. Beautiful walk and views of the harbour. Highly relaxing. Good for a dog walk.

Zsuzsika

Google

A beautiful place of tranquility and quiet enjoyment. Visiting in the rain was particularly delightful. You will need to be able to climb stairs to visit. Highly recommended.

London Foodie F.

Google

I have to give the survive star because of all the effort the volunteers have made to bring you something special out of an ordinary piece of land it's really beautiful what they've done and they've worked so hard it is a very good example of what can be done with volunteers the gift of their time

Gene W.

Yelp

No pictures cuz photos don't capture the beauty nor location of this garden. This not too secret garden (lots of people when we visited) can be a bit difficult to find so use mapping apps. Basically a terraced jungle setting in the middle of a metropolis, lots of paths and steps so be prepared for a bit of a workout in the summer. Located near Luna Park, though access between the garden and Luna Park is only through an underpass at the north end of the garden. Lots of shade, tables and benches to sit, and truly nice views of the Harbor Bridge. Free to boot so it's really a must-visit.

Brad D.

Yelp

A must see when in Sydney, best to enter via Lavender Street, Milsons Point. Walk down the stairs read the plaques and savour the serenity. Take a seat and reflect on how magical the secret garden is within a heart of an inner city suburb. Walk down the stairs when finished to the Lavender bay pier and walk back around the path to Milsons Point. Take in the miniature monuments of Australian figurines located along the path.

Vivian C.

Yelp

I found it! Wendy's Secret Garden! It was tough at first, as Google Maps seemed to direct me through a hotel, but I found my way out and around it and down a steep street. I happened upon an open harborside green space called Clark Park then managed to locate Wendy's Secret Garden tucked down in the greenery where the stairs with handrails lead down to cleared spaces covered with wood chips. There art and seating areas abounded, all gently carved out of nature. A nice spot to cozy up with a book for a moment of relaxation.

Roxana Q.

Yelp

Probably the best stop on my trip. The most beautiful garden with an amazing view of the harbour. This place didn't even feel like real life. If you can go when the Jacaranda's are blooming, you are in for a serious treat! I missed it by about two weeks. Not hard to find but a little off the beaten path. (Next to Luna Park basically). If the weather is nice it would be a gorgeous place to have a picnic on the grassy knoll or just sit on one of the tables or park benches in the garden. The house that Wendy lives in is right in front of the park as well as a newspaper write up on the story behind it all. I would recommend reading it. A must stop on any trip to Sydney! You won't regret it!

Paul L.

Yelp

The best word to describe this place: beautiful. Located near Luna Park, this garden is a great escape from the craziness of the outside world. I originally thought this place was very small so I had only planned to walk through it within 15 minutes. Even when I walked in I thought it was cool, but small. As I walked further, I realized the garden was actually fairly large and had multiple different paths to explore. Definitely bring a packed lunch because there are a lot of tables to sit at. Awesome "secret" place to get away.

Germano M.

Yelp

This "secret garden" is located near the North Sydney St. and Luna Park. There's a footpath that leads from Luna Park to this place. It's like you are in a private garden, but is open to the public. Thanks to Yelp I could know this place! It's an unusual and calm place: first, you can avoid crowded spots and yet take a beautiful picture from Harbour Bridge; second, you'll have a different angle from any other tourist. Besides the view, you can enjoy hidden trails and the nature itself. It's perfect for lunch time or picnic at the weekends. The day I had visited this garden a wedding's session photo was happening and for sure we can't expect less about this beautiful and charmed place!!!

Debbie F.

Yelp

Absolutely one of the most incredible experiences in Sydney. I visit every time I am in New South Wales because it is a tranquil spot in the middle of a busy city. There is nothing finer than basking in the beauty of the gardens, looking over the Harbour and discovering gorgeous flora. It is a favorite for all age groups. My grandchildren love visiting because in the words of my granddaughter, "It looks like fairies live here."

Susan M.

Yelp

Peaceful, restful, fabulous expansive gardens with hidden trails and flowering nooks and crannies. Sweet sounds of birds, clanging of tack on the sailboats drown out the drone of the motorway. Bring a packed lunch. Plenty of tables dotted about, some with shade umbrellas and gazebos. A beautiful pocket to just relax and unwind.

Eugenie C.

Yelp

Thanks to another Yelp reviewer, I found out about these "secret gardens" and paid a visit on the weekend. Not so secret after all! I saw at least 10 others; turns out I was late to the party. Well maintained, lush gardens with glimpses of the harbour over the plants. Lots of plants including some tropical ones. The gardens are shady, damp and cooler than the outside air temperature. I imagine it would be more enjoyable in warmer weather. The gardens themselves aren't big but it's very steep, around 5 levels made up of narrow paths with wooden railings, joined together by with massive steps. They were hard to find, perhaps that's what made them secret!

Tereza B.

Yelp

Wendy Whiteley's 'Secret Garden' is nestled between Clark Park on Lavender Street and the Lavender Bay railway shunting yard. This park used to be a derelict, unruly weed infested area that was used for railway dump for surplus trains and is leased by North Sydney Council from Railcorp so it can be enjoyed as a public space. When one of Australia's most famous artists Brett Whitely died in 1992 the area was transformed by his widow Wendy into a tranquil lush enchanted haven that it is today as she channelled her grief into beautifying this land that has expansive views of Sydney Harbour. Within the park there are sculptures, herbs, Moreton Bay fig trees, romantic seating, and nature paths that criss cross or meet each other. It appears to be a private garden but it is open to the public to enjoy. The park is an ode to a lost love and has been created for all to take a moment out of the daily grind to reflect. It can also be hired for private functions, contact North Sydney Council to request a permit to use this area for your special occasion.

Martin C.

Yelp

Wendy's secret garden is a great spot to unwind. The houses along the path leading up to the garden also show character. The Standout to me was the view from the top of the gardens overlooking the back of Lunar Park, Lavender Bay and of course the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. If you're a garden buff there's the large Moreton Bay fig tree, Bangalore palms, flowers and shrubs, secluded paths with steps and seven tables with chairs in quiet spots. Dotted amoung the garden is an antique fountain, sculptures, an old tricycle and a rusty wheel barrow none of which look out of place...they are the product of an artist's imagination. A word of caution; being always open to the public it's not the sort of place you'd want to find yourself after dark, especially down the bottom, so time your visit. If you don't know the exact location type it into Google maps on your smart phone and it will lead you right to it (see photo).

James F.

Yelp

Wow! Simply wow! I was on my way to my next cafe and happened upon a set f stair that led down... and down... and almost like Alice in Wonderland, this magical little park/space appeared. Totally unexpected, this hidden area is kind of like a tardis. Just when you think it is finished, there is another bench, another grassy area, or path. This place is brilliant! If you are looking for a spot that next to no one will know about, then absolutely check this place out.

Susan B.

Yelp

I work nearby and this is a beautiful spot to take your lunch and relax on a sunny afternoon. When I am in here, I feel like I have entered an enchanted fairytale... it truly is a treat. I am not sure how "secret" this garden is, though. On the weekends it is positively packed, so keep that in mind.

Zvezdana O.

Yelp

Awful place. Just horrible. Nothing to look at. A lot of common garden plants, forgettable trees and weeds opposite a rather average body of water and big metal bridge. Don't come here!

Max W.

Yelp

Magical place, worth a look. Easy walk from North Sydney station. Some picnic spots available. Or continue on to the boardwalk and walk east to Milson's Point for an enjoyable stroll.

JJ H.

Yelp

Shhh, don't tell anyone, it's one of the few quiet places in North Sydney to get away from it all. For example during lunch. It's a DIY garden by Wendy, grown over many, many years, and only recently got some permanence when state government leased it for the next couple of decades. It's amazing what a person's persistence can achieve.

Mimi C.

Yelp

guess this isn't a secert anymore... :o i love this little park that's stacked with picnic benches, lookouts, tables, all amongst the greenery and scenary of the sydney harbour. this park affords the best views of the water and if you find your way out - it leads you to the boardwalk and luna park. :) very enjoyable for 1/2hr - 1hr. some scrambling and hiking needed.

David S.

Yelp

One again if it wasn't for the internet I would never have known this place existed. In fact it isn't even signed so I didn't realised that I had walked into it until I was literally in the middle of it. However once you are there it will slowly click that this isn't any ordinary park. Personally, I really don't know anything about the back story to this place, all I know is that apparently it is a secret garden owned, or built, by somebody named Wendy. Secret it is because, as I indicated, it isn't even sign posted so you don't realise that you have found it until you realise - hey, this doesn't look like a council park. The reason I say that is because it has been set up as if it were someone's backyard garden, so you will find a variety of seats and garden ornaments amoug a rather lush and well tended garden. What's even better is that it is actually free to enter (which is the best price as far as I'm concerned). It certainly is a place worth checking out, especially if you like gardens (though you may need to stumble around a bit until you actually find it).

Maria N.

Yelp

It's a very balmy 33c in Syd .. the type of night you just can't bear to be sitting indoors for a feed, so you decide to grab some cold cuts, cheese, wine and a quarter watermelon for an old school picnic. Perfect spot for one right here folks ... however, if you're a human mozzie repellent for your fellow picnic-er, you stay away. You have been warned (unfort I wasn't privvy to this prior to coming here and found out the excruciatingly painful way barely 2mins in ... close to 30 bites on one leg. This park is truly breathtaking with various levels and seating and little nooks and crannies (im starting to think Sydney is pushing to top the 'who has the most secret rendezvous spots' - Melb is winning this by a nose). It's a seriously quiet spot so you're almost guaranteed you'll be the only folk there so if you need to switch off from society for a bit, head down here and re-connect with yourself.

Betsy H.

Yelp

Australia is such a beautiful place. I would love to visit here again and thank God to my job I am able to travel as much as I can afford due to my job is done remotely. This place is definitely a good place to visit. Maybe one day I live in Australia part-time.

Linda D.

Yelp

A beautiful place of calm and serenity created from loss and despair!! Lucky to have met one of the two full time gardeners today. Congratulations to Wendy and her helpers - a little bit of heaven!! A must come to place in Sydney!!

Barry T.

Yelp

An absolute gem on the foreshores of Sydney Harbor. Testament to the dedication of Wendy Whitely in creating a magical place for young & old to enjoy.

Mary P.

Yelp

Good place to visit - close to CBD, close to the train, yet very private and picturesque. Parking, however, might be a bit of a problem - you would need to know how to parallel-park on a street or along steep slopes.

Lyn W.

Yelp

Glorious haven of peace in the inner suburb. Photos don't fully do it's environment justice. Not easy to find but well worth the effort. We got off at North Sydney station and walked for 10 minutes towards the harbour. I had the added pleasure f talking with Wendy herself. A true bonus.

Sarah D.

Yelp

peaceful and beautiful garden in the middle of the city.

Ruby Y.

Yelp

Beautifully quiet. When the sun is high and filters through the leaves it makes for a beautiful day in the garden. When the sun is hidden behind mountains of clouds on a cold, post-rain day the ground gets a little gunky and muddy, but still a lovely place to hang around, though I would suggest sitting on the furniture provided instead of the ground.

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,699 Cities

Where to Find the Best Views of Sydney Harbour

Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden

@cntraveler

41,698 Postcards · 5,568 Cities

16 Best Parks in Sydney | Condé Nast Traveler

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-parks-in-sydney

Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden

@philtoronto

545 Postcards · 110 Cities

🇦🇺 sydney 🦘

yelp

Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden

@silverkris

9,971 Postcards · 2,269 Cities

Here's how Sydney's harbour spaces are going green - SilverKris

https://silverkris.singaporeair.com/inspiration/nature-adventure/ecotourism/sydney-harbour-spaces-going-green/

Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden

Casandra T.

Google

Nan J.

Google

Khanh T.

Google

Two Meow M.

Google

Kasuni S.

Google

Katy J.

Google

Cute local park near work. Beautiful walk and views of the harbour. Highly relaxing. Good for a dog walk.

Zsuzsika

Google

A beautiful place of tranquility and quiet enjoyment. Visiting in the rain was particularly delightful. You will need to be able to climb stairs to visit. Highly recommended.

London Foodie F.

Google

Gene W.

Yelp

Brad D.

Yelp

Vivian C.

Yelp

Roxana Q.

Yelp

Paul L.

Yelp

Germano M.

Yelp

Debbie F.

Yelp

Susan M.

Yelp

Eugenie C.

Yelp

Tereza B.

Yelp

Martin C.

Yelp

James F.

Yelp

Susan B.

Yelp

Zvezdana O.

Yelp

Awful place. Just horrible. Nothing to look at. A lot of common garden plants, forgettable trees and weeds opposite a rather average body of water and big metal bridge. Don't come here!

Max W.

Yelp

Magical place, worth a look. Easy walk from North Sydney station. Some picnic spots available. Or continue on to the boardwalk and walk east to Milson's Point for an enjoyable stroll.

JJ H.

Yelp

Mimi C.

Yelp

David S.

Yelp

Maria N.

Yelp

Betsy H.

Yelp

Linda D.

Yelp

Barry T.

Yelp

An absolute gem on the foreshores of Sydney Harbor. Testament to the dedication of Wendy Whitely in creating a magical place for young & old to enjoy.

Mary P.

Yelp

Lyn W.

Yelp

Sarah D.

Yelp

peaceful and beautiful garden in the middle of the city.

Ruby Y.

Yelp

Wendy Whiteley's Secret Garden

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16 Best Parks in Sydney | Condé Nast Traveler

Here's how Sydney's harbour spaces are going green - SilverKris

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16 Best Parks in Sydney | Condé Nast Traveler

Here's how Sydney's harbour spaces are going green - SilverKris