Frances Newton Reserve
Frances Newton Reserve is a 280 square metre pocket park in Darlinghurst NSW 2010, built on the site of the former Frances Newton Preschool. Its standout feature is an imaginative children's play space with stepping stones, distorting mirrors, a rain wheel and timber echidna and wombat play elements.
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About Frances Newton Reserve
Imaginative Play Space at Frances Newton Reserve
Frances Newton Reserve has a children's play space designed around imaginative play rather than a conventional playground. Its play features include stepping stones, a hoop, speaking tubes, distorting mirrors and a rain wheel, plus timber animal play elements made up of 2 echidnas and 1 wombat. The play area is compact and self-contained, which suits families with young children in a small urban green space.
Community Garden at Frances Newton Reserve
Frances Newton Reserve Community Garden sits within the reserve and is overseen by a local group. The garden has raised beds holding a large variety of plants, including vegetable garden beds, along with a toolbox bench seat and a composting area. The community garden offers a place to learn new skills and meet new friends, and beginners are welcome to take part.
History of Frances Newton Reserve
Frances Newton Reserve sits on the site of a kindergarten designed and built by Sydney City Council in 1928, and part of the foundation of the Frances Newton Preschool has been kept as a tribute to that history. The reserve is named in honour of preschool pioneer Frances Newton. Old bricks were reused to pave its walkways, and the City of Sydney delivered the works that were completed there in November 2018.
Facilities at Frances Newton Reserve
Getting to Frances Newton Reserve
222 Palmer Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010, on the corner of Palmer Street and Berwick Lane. Entry is via new steps from Palmer Street.
Open in Google Maps →Frequently asked questions about Frances Newton Reserve
Does Frances Newton Reserve have a playground?
Children get an imaginative play space with speaking tubes, a rain wheel and timber animals instead of standard play equipment.
Can I have a picnic at Frances Newton Reserve?
Yes, the lawn area is suitable for picnics, with park seating and benches among large trees.
Are there walking paths through Frances Newton Reserve?
Yes, brick-paved walkways link the lawn, seating and play areas.
Can beginners join the community garden at Frances Newton Reserve?
Yes, beginners are welcome in the garden, which a local group oversees.
How big is Frances Newton Reserve?
It covers 280 square metres, which makes it one of the smallest pocket parks in the City of Sydney network.