Royal Botanic Garden Sydney

The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is a 30-hectare (74-acre) garden at Farm Cove on Sydney Harbour in New South Wales, Australia, just east of the city centre. It opened in 1816 and is Australia's oldest scientific institution, as well as one of the most important historic botanical gardens in the world. It is heritage-listed, open every day of the year, and free to enter.

It sits right next to the Sydney Opera House and the large public park called The Domain, which makes it one of the most visited places in the city. The garden is also a working centre for plant science.

From farm to garden

In 1788 Governor Arthur Phillip set up the first European farm in Australia at Farm Cove. That farm failed, but the land stayed in cultivation. Governor Macquarie founded the Botanic Garden here in 1816, and in 1817 Charles Fraser became the first Colonial Botanist. Early staff helped bring plants from other regions to grow in Australia. Today the garden still keeps that scientific role.

Shaping the garden

Directors shaped the landscape you see today. Charles Moore led it for 48 years, from 1848 to 1896, and Joseph Maiden followed for 28 years. Later features include the Rose Garden, the Fernery, the Herb Garden and an Oriental Garden. The garden is run by the Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust, which belongs to the state government. Its position beside the harbour makes it a favourite spot for walks.

On the globe

Look for Sydney Harbour on the southeast coast of Australia, next to the Opera House.