Paddington Reservoir Gardens
Paddington Reservoir Gardens is a free multi-storey park on Oxford St, Paddington, built on a former reservoir in Sydney's water supply system. Its standout feature is a sunken garden of subtropical plants crossed by wide boardwalks, on a site listed on the NSW State Heritage Register.
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About Paddington Reservoir Gardens
Sunken Garden and Boardwalks at Paddington Reservoir Gardens
Paddington Reservoir Gardens has a sunken garden and grassed area planted with subtropical plants, which form its main green space. Wide boardwalks lead visitors past tree ferns, other vegetation and a pool, with benches placed for resting. A flat grassy area offers room to sit, and chairs are set out on the lawn outside. The park also includes a reinstated rooftop reserve. A mix of shady and sunny spots makes the gardens good for a picnic, and the leafy setting stays cool on warm days.
Heritage and Design of Paddington Reservoir Gardens
Paddington Reservoir Gardens is listed on the NSW State Heritage Register. The site formed part of Sydney's third water supply system, designed to hold water pumped from Lords Dam at Botany Bay, which was built in 1815. The reservoir was designed in 1857 and completed in 1866, then served as storage, a garage, a workspace and a petrol station until part of its roof collapsed in 1990. Heritage and landscape architects Tonkin Zulaikha Greer and James Mather Delaney designed the gardens, reusing salvaged original brick, timber and iron alongside contemporary, sustainable elements. The design won the Australian Award for Urban Design in 2009.
Facilities at Paddington Reservoir Gardens
Visitor tips for Paddington Reservoir Gardens
- ✓The gardens can't be seen from the street, so look for the lift or the sloping walkway on Oxford Street to find the way in.
Getting to Paddington Reservoir Gardens
251-255 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021. Any bus stopping on Oxford Street serves the park, and Edgecliff Station is about a 20-minute walk. There is no car park; nearby street parking has restrictions or time limits, so check the signs.
Open in Google Maps →Frequently asked questions about Paddington Reservoir Gardens
What are the opening hours of Paddington Reservoir Gardens?
The upper level is open 24 hours, while the lower garden level opens during daylight hours only.
Where can I park near Paddington Reservoir Gardens?
The gardens have no car park of their own, so visitors use nearby street spots, which carry time limits or other restrictions.
Is Paddington Reservoir Gardens wheelchair and pram friendly?
Yes, a lift and a sloping walkway lead in from the street, and the wide, flat footpaths around the site and the boardwalks inside suit wheelchairs and strollers.
How do I get to Paddington Reservoir Gardens by public transport?
Any Oxford Street bus will get you there, or allow around 20 minutes to walk from Edgecliff Station.
Are there events at Paddington Reservoir Gardens?
Art and photography exhibitions are held in the gardens.