Centennial Park

Overview

Centennial Park is a 189-hectare federation-era parkland in Sydney's eastern suburbs, created in 1888 to mark Australia's centenary. Its formal avenues, native bushland, and extensive cycling and horse-riding trails make it Sydney's favourite weekend escape.

Highlights

• Federation Pavilion: The spot where the Commonwealth of Australia was proclaimed on 1 January 1901.
• Lachlan Swamp: A boardwalk through a remnant paperbark swamp, home to water hens and eels.
• Cycling loop: A 3.8 km shared path looping the park — bikes available for hire at the gates.

History

Dedicated by Sir Henry Parkes to the people of NSW in 1888, and site of the 1901 Federation ceremony. The park preserves remnants of the Botany Swamps that once supplied Sydney's water.

Visitor Tips

• Horse riding: Centennial Parklands Equestrian Centre offers guided rides.
• Café stops: Several cafés dot the perimeter, including the Centennial Homestead.
• Duration: 1–2 hours.