Hyde Park

Hyde Park is a rectangular urban park of about 16 hectares in central Sydney, flanked by Elizabeth Street and lined with rows of shade trees along its boundaries. Inside are the stone-arched Archibald Fountain and the ANZAC Memorial standing at one end, both surrounded by lawns and pathways.

Governor Macquarie set aside the land in 1810 as Australia's first public park, after it had been used by Aboriginal communities for contests and later by military units for assembly. The layout and integration into the city grid reflected European planning models introduced in the colonized territory during the early 19th century.

The park takes its name from London's Hyde Park, reflecting early colonial ideas about public green spaces in emerging Australian cities. Its lawns are used by morning runners and weekend groups who gather on blankets for casual picnics or outdoor games.

Visitors reach the grounds easily via St James and Museum train stations, both directly adjacent to the park. Restrooms, benches, and alfresco dining areas are available, with larger sections bookable for group events.

The central avenue is lined with Hill's Figs, a fig variety that has provided shade for over a century and whose thick trunks and spreading crowns define the park experience. In total, around 580 mature trees give the rectangular layout a green character and create pockets of quiet despite the dense surrounding buildings.