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Great North walk - Berowra Valley National Park

Natural Attractions

Great North walk - Berowra Valley National Park

Also known as Benowie walking track, this beautiful bushland walk through Berowra Valley National Park follows Berowra Creek for 25 kilometres of the iconic Great North walk between Sydney and Newcastle. This section of the walk, from Pennant Hills to Berowra Waters, takes about two to three days to walk, with several places to camp along the way. If you’d prefer a shorter walk, you can always break the trail up into more manageable sections, particularly if you're taking the kids out for the day. Join the walk from Pennant Hills, Westleigh, Hornsby, Galston Gorge picnic area or Berowra Waters, and head out into the bush for an adventure. For a longer walk extend your trip south along the Great North walk - Lane Cove National Park or link up with the Great North walk – Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park and continue north towards Newcastle.

Pennant Hills NSW

0.7 km away

Bellamy fire trail

Natural Attractions

Bellamy fire trail

This short walk through Berowra Valley Regional Park is perfect for a daily breather. A level path takes you down to Zig-Zag Creek, over a bridge and up to the high walls and towering forest of the old railway quarry, an attractive natural amphitheatre of sandstone. Even though there's no directional signage, you'll find the path easy to follow. You’ll see fern trees, grass trees, coachwood and a variety of tall eucalypts while hearing the joyful call of kookaburras. Interpretive signs tell the history of the historic Zig-Zag railway that used to pass through here. Take a seat on the old railway sleepers and enjoy the peace and beauty of the bush before heading back to daily life.

Pennant Hills NSW

1.2 km away

Dr Mark Lidwill Blue Plaque — Image credit: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Dr Mark Lidwill Blue Plaque

Visitors can discover the stories behind the people, places and events that have helped shape NSW - where the history happened. A Blue Plaque visit offers more than sightseeing. It creates a direct connection between place and story, turning everyday locations into places of discovery. Each plaque reveals a unique piece of history, encouraging visitors to explore local areas from a new perspective and uncover stories they may never have known. This blue plaque commemorates Dr Mark Lidwill who was an Australian medical pioneer that invented a portable machine for anaesthesia and the world's first cardiac pacemaker. Visit the blue plaque at the Arden Anglican School, 63 Beecroft Road, Beecroft NSW 2119 and scan the QR code there to learn more.

Beecroft NSW

1.3 km away

Koala Presentations

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Koala Park Sydney

Come face to face at their place with friendly Australian animals. Take photo's next to our koala's after our shows which is included in the entry price. Koala Park was created in the 1920s and officially opened in October of 1930 by the founder Noel Burnet. He became alarmed at the high numbers of koalas shot for the large export fur trade. He feared that if such harsh treatment was allowed to continue, this lovable and unique Australian animal would disappear from the face of the earth forever. From that time on he spent his whole life fighting to protect research and Create a safe environment in which they could live and breed naturally.

West Pennant Hills NSW

2.8 km away

Walking tracks abound in Cumberland State Forest — Image credit: Forestry Corporation of NSW

Natural Attractions

Cumberland State Forest

Australia's only metropolitan state forest, Cumberland State Forest, is a beautiful native forest located at West Pennant Hills, Sydney, only half an hour from the city centre. Enjoy a forest walk, picnic or barbecue, and discover the surprising diversity of wildlife in the forest. Cumberland State Forest is home to Calgaroo Picnic Area, Shepherds Picnic Area, Swains Picnic Area, Bellamy Picnic Area, and three walking trails - Forestry Trail, Palm Gully Trail and Sensory Trail. Visiting Cumberland State Forest is free. This 40-hectare forest in the heart of Sydney was originally privately owned cleared land in 1908. The NSW Forestry Commission took over management in 1938 and created a dedicated State forest in 1939. At that time, one-third of the land was planted as an arboretum while the rest was allowed to regenerate naturally. Today, Cumberland is a green space in the heart of a capital city where visitors can experience the sights, sounds and serenity of the forest environment. Cumberland State Forest is also home to independently-operated Treetops Adventure The Hills, Cafe Saligna and Plants Plus Cumberland State Forest. Please note: Cumberland's picnic facilities cannot be booked. They are free to use, and available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

West Pennant Hills NSW

3.2 km away

Treetops Adventure The Hills

Amusement and Theme Parks

Treetops Adventure The Hills

Treetops Adventure The Hills is a natural wonder not so far away. Secretly hidden amongst the tall pines of the Cumberland State Forest, you’ll find one of our most magical tree rope parks. Treetops Adventure The Hills is located only 30 minutes from Sydney city and is the perfect quick forest retreat for city slickers. With nine different tree ropes courses to choose from, family members of all ages can experience the fantastical serenity of this park. A 2.5-hour session through the aerial challenges (including gearing up) will have you laughing along with the kookaburras. After safety, your adrenaline is the top priority, so the courses are designed to challenge you, no matter your level.

West Pennant Hills NSW

3.2 km away

Hornsby Mountain Bike Trail — Image credit: Hornsby Shire Council

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Hornsby Mountain Bike Trail

Enjoy 6km of white-knuckle mountain bike riding through picturesque bushland in Old Mans Valley, only a short cycle or walk from Hornsby Station in Sydney’s upper north shore. The single track has various skill levels and combines a series of narrow bushland trails and flowing metre-wide trails. The Hornsby Mountain Bike Trail is only open during daylight hours. The track is accessed from Quarry Road, where car parking is available.

Hornsby NSW

4.4 km away

Lane Cove National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Lane Cove National Park

Lane Cove National Park is a beautiful pocket of bushland that sits on either side of the peaceful Lane Cove River. It's in easy reach for Sydneysiders, extending from East Ryde to Pennant Hills and West Chatswood. It's a great place for a day out with the family; there are lots of picnic areas to choose from, including those that offer picnic tables, barbecues, children's play equipment, flat grassy areas and easy access to walking tracks and places to ride your bike. Whatever activities you fancy, you're bound to find a perfect place to picnic for the day. When you've polished off the picnic, you can hit the walking tracks to explore the park's bushland, hire a boat from the Lane Cove Boatshed to row along the quiet Lane Cove River or cycle along the park's roads. There's also a fire trail between Pennant Hills and West Pymble, where you can ride your bike if you're feeling more adventurous. The park's historic sites are best explored along the self-guided Heritage walk. Pick up a brochure from the Lane Cove park office. If you'd like to stay overnight...

Chatswood West NSW

5.4 km away

Grace Cossington Smith Blue Plaque — Image credit: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Grace Cossington Smith Blue Plaque

Visitors can discover the stories behind the people, places and events that have helped shape NSW - where the history happened. A Blue Plaque visit offers more than sightseeing. It creates a direct connection between place and story, turning everyday locations into places of discovery. Each plaque reveals a unique piece of history, encouraging visitors to explore local areas from a new perspective and uncover stories they may never have known. This blue plaque commemorates Grace Cossington Smith OBE, AO who is one of Australia's most celebrated modernist painters, renowned for her iconic Sydney cityscapes and luminous interiors. Visit the blue plaque at Cossington, 43 Ku-Ring-Gai Avenue, Turramurra NSW 2074

Turramurra NSW

5.7 km away

Pennant Hills West Pymble Fire Trail — Image credit: Photo: Debby McGerty.

Natural Attractions

Pennant Hills West Pymble Fire Trail

The fire trail from Pennant Hills Park to West Pymble winds its way through the eucalypt forest of Lane Cove National Park. It’s a picturesque route, with plenty of variety, including some technical parts and steep areas that are good for hill climb training. There are lots of scenic spots along the way where you can enjoy a picnic lunch, including by Devlins Creek and at Whale Rock. You can complete part of the ride if you feel like a shorter trip, or tackle the return leg for a longer day on the bike. You can also head back via the Comenarra Parkway.

West Pymble NSW

5.8 km away

Archie Brothers Castle Towers

Amusement and Theme Parks

Archie Brothers Castle Towers

Castle Hill, it's time to hit the arcade. Archie Brothers is bringing its amazing arcade games and delicious bar to the heart of Castle Towers Shopping Centre! Grab a cocktail, win some prizes, and indulge in a menu that's fit for the perfect night out with family and friends. Whether you're a claw machine pro, love virtual reality, or lean more towards classic arcade racers, they're bringing the best games in the business for you to try your hand at. So grab a game card and get ready, 'cause Archie Brothers is guaranteed to knock your socks off.

Castle Hill NSW

6.3 km away

Strike Bowling Castle Towers

Amusement and Theme Parks

Strike Bowling Castle Towers

With 10 bowling lanes, karaoke rooms, and a next-generation escape room there's something for everyone at Strike Castle Towers. Throw in a fully-equipped cocktail bar into the mix, plus delicious food offerings courtesy of our pop-up mates at Rando Sandos, and you’ll find the only entertainment experience you’ll ever need. So whether you're having a kids party, Christmas function, team building event - or a night out with mates, Strike's got you covered.

Castle Hill NSW

6.3 km away

Holey Moley Macquarie

Amusement and Theme Parks

Holey Moley Macquarie

Holey Moley Golf Club has brought its chaotic collection of mini golf holes and drinks to Macquarie. Sharing the limelight with Strike bowling, Holey Moley is located in the same venue and ready to rock your golf socks. Play 9 holes of top-tier mini golf filled with neon lights and plenty of photo opportunities. Throughout your visit, hit up their vibey bar for a wealth of cocktails, beers, wines and just about any bevvie essential you could ask for. Coupled with the extra energy and atmosphere coming from Strike, a night out at Holey Moley Macquarie is sure to become a weekday and weekend staple!

Macquarie Park NSW

7.0 km away

Strike Bowling Macquarie

Amusement and Theme Parks

Strike Bowling Macquarie

Parked in North Ryde, just north of Sydney, and set over two impressive levels, Strike Macquarie will blow your mind. Strike Macquarie offers 10 world-class bowling lanes, an awesome Laser Tag arena, private karaoke rooms plus Sydney's most challenging escape rooms. Combine all that with their slick cocktail bar and delicious new food offerings courtesy of mates at Rando Sandos, it really is your one-stop-shop for every entertainment need.

Macquarie Park NSW

7.0 km away

Rose Seidler House

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Rose Seidler House

Rose Seidler House, built between 1948 and 1950, is one of the most uncompromising modernist houses in Australia. Nestled in natural bushland, the house has panoramic views of Ku-ring-gai National Park from its glass walls and sun-filled deck. Restored to its 1950s scheme, Rose Seidler House incorporates the modernist features of open planning, minimal colour scheme, mod cons, appliances and labour-saving devices that were new to Australia. Its original furniture is one of the most important post-war design collections in Australia. Rose Seidler House was the first commission for internationally renowned architect Harry Seidler. He came to Australia from New York expressly to build the house for his parents Rose and Max, who lived there until 1967. Awarded the Sulman Medal in 1951, it has been a very influential house, stimulating much social comment and intellectual debate.

Wahroonga NSW

7.1 km away

Patrick White Blue Plaque — Image credit: Heritage NSW

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Patrick White Blue Plaque

Visitors can discover the stories behind the people, places and events that have helped shape NSW - where the history happened. A Blue Plaque visit offers more than sightseeing. It creates a direct connection between place and story, turning everyday locations into places of discovery. Each plaque reveals a unique piece of history, encouraging visitors to explore local areas from a new perspective and uncover stories they may never have known. This blue plaque commemorates Patrick White who was a celebrated novelist, playwright, poet and political activist. He won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1973.

Castle Hill NSW

7.1 km away

Tunks Hill picnic area

Natural Attractions

Tunks Hill picnic area

With three distinct grassy areas, Tunks Hill picnic area in Lane Cove National Park is a great spot for a family get-together or a relaxing day out. Located on a hilltop on Riverside Drive, it boasts views of Chatswood, as well as adjacent bush, home to birdlife and local reptiles. Enjoy a picnic at one of the tables or sit back on one of grassy patches beneath towering gum trees. A large shelter is also available for bookings of up to 80 guests standing. The shelter, originally used for storing pig food, was built by farmer William Tunks, who lived here before the land became a national park.

Macquarie Park NSW

7.6 km away

Dalrymple-Hay Nature Reserve

National Parks and Reserves

Dalrymple-Hay Nature Reserve

Escape the hustle of the city for a refreshing dose of nature. A 15-minute drive from the Sydney CBD can take you to a patch of paradise near St Ives. Dalrymple-Hay Nature Reserve, in North Sydney, boasts one of the last remaining stands of magnificent blue gum forests within the Sydney region. This much-loved reserve is featured as part of the Ku-ring-gai Council nature walks and NPWS discovery program, making it popular for bushwalking and birdwatching. The towering canopy and lush understorey of ferns support a staggering array of wildlife including black-faced swamp wallabies and echidnas. If visiting Dalrymple-Hay Nature Reserve at night, then keep your eyes peeled for sugar gliders, possums and owls. Early morning is a superb time for birdwatching as the reserve comes alive with the sound of native Australian birds singing, including pardalotes, king parrots, and lorikeets.

Pymble NSW

7.7 km away

Browns Forest Loop Trail — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Browns Forest Loop Trail

If you’ve ever wondered what Sydney looked like before the city took over, then head to Browns Forest loop trail, in the North Sydney suburb of St Ives. Immerse yourself in unspoilt bushland within Dalrymple-Hay Nature Reserve by taking advantage of its short and easy walking track. Just 30 minutes north of the central business district, it’s ideal for birdwatching enthusiasts, nature-lovers and botanists, and is a great walk for kids. You’ll enter a forest of majestic blue gums and magnificent blackbutts that hark back to pre-colonial times with a lush understorey of ferns. Following the clearly signposted path, the kids will enjoy the self-guided series of interpretation signs. In the spring, the ground cover of native flowers, such as the blue flax lily and pastel flower, burst into a colourful display. Any time of year, you’ll hear the chatter of birds such as rainbow lorikeets, crimson rosellas and king parrots echoing through the bush.

St Ives NSW

8.0 km away

Lake Parramatta Reserve and recreation area — Image credit: Destination NSW

Natural Attractions

Lake Parramatta Reserve and recreation area

With more than 70 hectares of bushland to explore and only two kilometres from the Parramatta CBD, a visit to Lake Parramatta is the perfect way to enjoy a sunny Sydney day by the water. With the lake open for swimming from October each year, the Summer season is the time to shake winter off and reserve a spot by the water, fully patrolled by lifeguards. Take a stroll around any of the walking tracks, from the She-oak track (1.5 kilometres-return), the Banksia Track (2.4km-return), the 4.2km Lake Circuit that winds its way around the periphery of the Lake, and the 1.8km Arrunga Bardo Walk. Enjoy a Picnic, barbecue and the Playgrounds, pull up a patch of grass or choose a rock overlooking the water. A significant place for the traditional owners of the land, evidence still remains of the regular usage of and occupation by the Aboriginal-Burramattagal clan within Lake Parramatta Reserve and Hunts Creek. Look out for shelter caves, hand-stencils, stone-flaking, tree scars and midden deposits, as well as a Bushfoods Garden.

North Parramatta NSW

8.1 km away

Eryldene House and Garden

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Eryldene Historic House and Garden

Eryldene Historic House and Garden is an outstanding heritage-listed former family residence and now house museum, designed by architect William Hardy Wilson and constructed between 1913 and 1936 for Professor E. G. Waterhouse, a noted languages academic at Sydney University. The garden, developed from 1913 through to the 1970s by Professor Waterhouse, contains a Camellia and Azalea collection of international significance, many of which were bred by the professor himself. Eryldene's layout was carefully planned by Waterhouse, featuring intimate outdoor garden rooms and a geometric alignment of buildings, garden elements, and structures arranged in visually harmonious relationships and connected by direct pathways. The garden layout and its structures, including a study and teahouse, demonstrate a fusion of Eastern and Western architectural idioms. The site also includes a lawn tennis court suitable for hosting events, as well as a water feature.

Gordon NSW

8.2 km away

Mount Colah Station to Pymble Station Cycle Route — Image credit: Photo: Andy Rich

Natural Attractions

Mount Colah Station to Pymble Station Cycle Route

For an exhilarating day trip that’s sure to get the adrenaline flowing, try Mount Colah Station to Pymble Station cycle route, via Bobbin Head. It’s a great introduction to Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, and bound to invigorate the senses, bringing a healthy glow to the cheeks. From Mount Colah Station, head south before turning left into Ku-ring-gai Chase Road. You’ll soon be winding your way through the park, revelling in the sights and sounds of the bush. It’s eight kilometres to Apple Tree Bay, with a great downhill run. Upon reaching Bobbin Head, stop for a refreshing swim and a well-deserved picnic lunch. Don’t forget to check out the historic Bobbin Inn Visitor Centre. Following the road round, it’s an uphill climb to the southern park entrance. From here take the short detour to see the fascinating Sphinx Memorial, a replica of the famous sphinx carved out of sandstone. From the edge of the park, it’s an eight kilometre ride along Bobbin head Road, turning south onto Pacific Highway, to Pymble Station.

Mount Colah NSW

8.2 km away

Fiddens Wharf Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Fiddens Wharf Walking Track

Within a stone’s throw of Sydney's central business district, enjoy a quick and easy weekend getaway with the family while enjoying the great outdoors at Lane Cove National Park. Short and steep, Fiddens Wharf walking track, near West Killara, leads to a large sports oval fringed by beautiful bushland. It’s an ideal destination for active families and groups looking for a large open playing field for ball games and fitness. This clearly signposted track leads to Fiddens Wharf Oval, where there’s plenty of space for the kids to kick a ball around or enjoy a family game of cricket. If you’ve worked up an appetite, don’t forget a picnic basket and enjoy a leisurely lunch in a shady spot. If you’ve still got energy to burn, follow the track to Fiddens Wharf on the tranquil Lane Cove River. Keen bushwalkers can also join the iconic Great North Walk from here.

Killara NSW

8.4 km away

iPlay Melrose Central

Amusement and Theme Parks

iPlay Melrose Central

Get ready for a new way to play in Melrose Park. iPlay Melrose Central brings together exciting arcade games and fast-paced Pandemonium Challenge Rooms under one roof. Bring the family, challenge your friends, plan a fun date night or enjoy a group day out. Explore the arcade, then put your teamwork, skill and speed to the test across a series of physical and mental challenges in Pandemonium. Conveniently located at Melrose Central for visitors from Melrose Park, Ermington, West Ryde, Meadowbank, Ryde, Rydalmere, Eastwood, Parramatta and surrounding Sydney suburbs. Plan your visit to iPlay Melrose Central and get ready for fun!

Melrose Park NSW

8.5 km away

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