Carlton Gardens, Public gardens in Carlton, Melbourne, Australia

Carlton Gardens is a large public park in Melbourne with wide pathways, ornamental water features, and mature European trees throughout. The space combines open lawns with formal planted areas and several fountains positioned across the grounds.

Carlton Gardens was reserved as public parkland in 1839 by Superintendent Charles La Trobe. The City of Melbourne took control around 1856 and had Edward La Trobe Bateman design the path layout. In 1879, before the 1880 Melbourne International Exhibition, architect Joseph Reed redesigned the site and horticulturist William Sangster redeveloped the gardens.

The gardens serve as a gathering place where locals and visitors spend time under tall trees and along open lawns. People come here to walk, rest, and enjoy outdoor spaces that feel both grand and welcoming.

The park is well accessible with multiple entrances and amenities like playgrounds and sports courts throughout. Visitors can easily reach it by tram or on foot from the city center nearby.

The Exhibition Fountain, often called the Hochgurtel Fountain, was designed by sculptor Joseph Hochgurtel for the 1880 Melbourne International Exhibition. It stands in the gardens as one of three fountains, alongside the French Fountain and the Westgarth Drinking Fountain. The gardens, including the fountain, are a popular backdrop for wedding photography.