Set within the Royal Botanic Gardens, this Gothic sandstone mansion (built 1837–43) is the official residence of the Governor of NSW. Its lovely loggia looks over a formal garden with the Opera House looming close by. The interior can only be accessed on a free guided tour; collect your ticket from the gatehouse. You'll need ID.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Circular Quay & The Rocks attractions

1. Sydney Writers Walk

0.14 MILES

Metal discs cast into the promenade hold ruminations from Australian writers (and the odd literary visitor). The likes of Mark Twain, Germaine Greer,…

2. Royal Botanic Garden

0.15 MILES

Southeast of the Opera House, this garden was established in 1816 and features plant life from around the world. Within the gardens are hothouses with…

3. Sydney Opera House

0.2 MILES

Designed by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, this magnificent building is Australia's most famous landmark. Visually referencing a yacht's sails, it's a…

4. Justice & Police Museum

0.22 MILES

In a sandstone building that once headquartered the Water Police, this atmospheric museum plunges you straight into Sydney noir. An assemblage of black…

5. Sydney Conservatorium of Music

0.24 MILES

The castellated ‘Con’ was designed in 1817 by convict architect Francis Greenway as the stables and servants’ quarters of Governor Macquarie’s new house…

6. Customs House Library

0.28 MILES

The elegant 1885 Customs House houses this three-level library. There's a great selection of international newspapers and magazines, internet access and…

7. Customs House

0.28 MILES

This elegant harbourside edifice (1885) has a democratic feel to it. It houses tourist information, a library, bars and restaurant options, including Cafe…

8. Overseas Passenger Terminal

0.32 MILES

Multi-storey luxury cruise ships anchor at this large terminal, disgorging hordes of shaky-legged tourists onto the Quay. For a killer harbour view, head…