10 Gardens in New South Wales That You Shouldn't Miss

Everyone needs a secret garden in their life and you’re invited to visit Wendy's, a public garden and much loved oasis in the heart of Sydney. Located a short walk over the Sydney Harbour Bridge, or stroll from Milsons Point and North Sydney train stations, the Secret Garden is a haven where you can explore meandering pathways discovering sculptures; enjoy a picnic basket or read a book at one of the tables beneath the garden’s canopy; or simply enjoy the nature and serenity of your beautiful surrounds. You may even stumble across a fairy. Created over 20 years by artist Wendy Whiteley, wife and muse of Australian artist Brett Whiteley, the Secret Garden is nestled behind Luna Park in one of Sydney's most spectacular suburbs, Lavender Bay. While its free and open seven days a week, there are steep inclines and a range of steps. Visitors with limited mobility may only be able to access the uppermost sections of the garden but we're sure you'll enjoy your visit.

The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney is a major botanical Garden located in the heart of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Opened in 1816, the garden is the oldest scientific institution in Australia and one of the most important historic botanical institutions in the world.

Escape from the hustle and bustle to a serene, secluded garden—Darling Harbour’s Chinese Garden of Friendship. The walled Chinese Garden respectfully recreates the philosophy and harmony of a traditional Chinese garden in its waterfalls, lakes, exotic plants, pavilions and hidden pathways...once you’ve discovered this secret garden, you’ll never want to leave! Opening hours 10am – 5pm - Last entry to the Garden 15 minutes prior to closing. The Garden is closed Good Friday and Christmas Day.

Tranquil. It's the perfect word to describe Cowra's Japanese Garden. You can't help but feel completely at peace when you walk through the lush gardens and cascading streams which represent the landscapes of Japan: where the hill is a mountain, streams are the rivers and the ponds inland lakes and the sea. Is this the most serene place in NSW? Spend some time walking around the equisitely manicured Kaiyushiki (strolling) garden, designed by Ken Nakajima and opened in 1979, and you be the judge.

Blue Mountains Botanic Garden sits on 252 hectares of land with 28 hectares open to the public and is home to 21,000 plants and 900 species. The Garden is the only botanic garden in the world in a World Heritage Area and is focused on the conservation of cool climate plants. The Garden is a great place for you to relax, breathe in the clean mountain air and discover a world of cool climate plants at your leisure. The changing seasons create an entirely new and spectacular scene and you are invited to return again and again to witness the ever changing beauty. Complemented by an exciting calendar of events, exhibitions and festivals, The Garden will inspire and entertain you. The Garden and surrounds make the perfect setting for your gathering. Venues available include Garden sites, barbeque picnic areas, pavilions and education spaces with projector, kitchen and heating for your ceremony, get-together, conference, school camp or photo shoot. On-site accommodation is available

Ever wondered where Australia’s Largest Cool Climate garden is? Wonder no more! Located just 11km from Oberon in NSW, Australia, Mayfield Garden offers a great day out for the whole family. Explore hidden gems across 20-hectares, from the 16.5m tall Obelisk, behind the waterfall to the Grotto and everything in between. The 55-hectare Hawkins’ Family Garden opens for seasonal festivals and features the country’s second-largest English Box Hedge Maze. Taste the experience at Mayfield Cafe. Enjoy the seasonal farm to table menu with produce grown on-site. Come for breakfast or lunch; book your special event - or treat yourself to an exclusive, private tour for a behind-the-scenes look. Mayfield Garden is open 363 days a year (9:00 AM – 4:30 PM, final entry at 3:00 PM.)