Sydney's Convict and Colonial Past An Evening Walking Tour

Sydney, AU

Included

  • inclusion
    All fees and taxes

Meeting Point

We will meet outside Customs House, close to the entrance. Customs House is located next to the Circular Quay light-rail station, and across the road from Circular Quay train station and Circular Quay wharf.

Meeting point

31 Alfred St, Sydney NSW 2000 , Australia

End point

End Point

Queen's Square is located in the city centre. It is a short walk a three minute walk from Martin Place metro and train station, and St James train station.

Meeting point

Sydney NSW 2000 , Australia

End point

What to expect

1

Circular Quay

Begin your journey at Circular Quay, the landing site of the First Fleet in 1788. Stand where European settlers first set foot, marking the inception of Australia's colonial era.

Duration 15 minutes
2

Cadmans Cottage

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Visit Cadmans Cottage, Sydney's oldest surviving residential building, constructed in 1816 by convict labor. This sandstone structure offers a glimpse into the lives of early settlers and convicts.

Duration 10 minutes
3

The Rocks

Wander through The Rocks, Sydney's oldest neighborhood, characterized by its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. Discover the area's transformation from a convict settlement to a vibrant district.

Duration 30 minutes
4

Argyle Cut

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Explore the Argyle Cut, a passage carved by convicts in the 1840s, showcasing their engineering prowess. At Dawes Point, learn about Sydney's early defenses and the strategic significance of this location.

Duration 20 minutes
5
Macquarie Place Park

Visit Macquarie Place Park, Sydney's first town square, featuring the 1818 Obelisk of Distances. This landmark served as the central point from which all road distances in New South Wales were measured.

Duration 15 minutes
6
Hyde Park Barracks

Tour the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hyde Park Barracks, built between 1817 and 1819 to house convicts. Now a museum, it offers insights into the daily lives of its former inhabitants.

Duration 30 minutes
7
St. James Church

Admire St. James Church, completed in 1824 by convict labor, and the adjacent Supreme Court. These structures represent the establishment of law and order in the early colony.

Duration 10 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for pregnant participants
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

What our experts say

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    Start your evening early at Circular Quay.
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    Don't miss the views at The Rocks.
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    Hydrate well before the walking tour.
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    Nearby, try The Mercantile for drinks.
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    Visit Hyde Park Barracks museum first.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Sydney's Convict and Colonial Past An Evening Walking Tour invites you to step back in time and explore the fascinating history of Australia's colonial era. Immerse yourself in the stories of early settlers, convicts, and the legacy they left behind in the heart of Sydney.

What to expect?

Embark on a journey through Sydney's convict and colonial history, starting at Circular Quay and delving into iconic landmarks like Cadmans Cottage, The Rocks, and Hyde Park Barracks. Learn about the convict craftsmanship, early law and order, and the enduring legacy of Sydney's past through immersive storytelling and historical insights.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and anyone eager to uncover the hidden stories of Sydney's convict and colonial past. Whether you're a local looking to delve deeper into your city's history or a visitor seeking a unique and educational experience, this tour offers something for everyone.

Why book this?

Step into the footsteps of early settlers and convicts as you explore Sydney's convict and colonial heritage with expert guides who bring history to life. From the cobblestone streets of The Rocks to the iconic landmarks of Hyde Park Barracks, this tour offers a captivating journey through time that will leave you with a deeper understanding of Sydney's formative years.

Good to know

As you embark on this evening walking tour, be prepared for roughly 2.6km of walking (1.62 miles) to fully immerse yourself in the rich history of Sydney. The tour includes all fees and taxes, ensuring a hassle-free experience as you uncover the secrets of the city's past.

Reviews

Travelers have praised the Sydney's Convict and Colonial Past An Evening Walking Tour for its insightful storytelling, knowledgeable guides, and the unique perspective it offers on Sydney's history. Visitors have found the tour to be engaging, educational, and a must-do experience for anyone interested in the convict history of Australia.

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