The Rocks
During the 1960’s there were government plans to flatten the entire Rocks area and build a concrete precinct of modern skyscrapers. Fortunately after much protest from the public the plans were shelved and this historic area was turned into a tourist precinct.
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| The historic Rocks precinct from the Cahill Express way with sweeping views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge in the background. |
Tucked in tightly at the base of the Sydney Harbor Bridge, the Causeway and Circular Quay is a collection of small streets and lanes which are tightly packed with old shops, houses and hotels. Many have been carefully restored to represent the the thriving early days of the city.
Many hotels and restaurants have sprung up during the years to make this area one of Sydney’s most popular sections. A must is to visit the amazing undercover art and craft market which operates in the streets on Saturdays and Sundays.
You cant visit the Rocks without visiting one of Australia’s oldest pubs, there are quite a few to try The Oxford, The Hero of Waterloo, The Mercantile Hotel and the Fortune of War are some of the favorites and all have some claim to be the oldest.
The Fortune of War claim to be Sydney’s oldest pub as the licence can be dated back to 1826, The building itself is 1920’s and the bar has not been altered since then. Walking into this bar is like stepping back to the 20’s so much so, several movies have been shot in the bar to get that old Sydney look.
If you want to go back further in time you cant go past The hero of Waterloo as this pub sits in a convict built 1843 sandstone building on Lower Fort Street, it just to the left when you hit the end of George Street under the bridge.
The South East pylon of Sydney Harbour Bridge that operates as a lookout and mini museum can be accessed via the Bridge stairs in Cumberland Street and is a great way to see the city and the Rocks area. For the more adventurous the Bridge Climb is a guided tour that takes you to the very top of the bridge’s steel arch, the Bridge Climb centre can also be found in Cumberland Street.