Parramatta Park

The park is inscribed in UNESCO's list of World Heritage. By private car, you can enter from Pitt Street or O'Connell Street. By public transport, it is accessible by taking the Parramatta Free Shuttle Bus. Below is the photo of the main entrance. Don't be overwhelmed by it's appearance. There are no guards or ticket booths at all. It is open to everyone everyday.

This gate leads you directly to the Old Government House.  It is the oldest public buiding in Australia that is still standing. From the late 17th century to early 18th century, this was the seat of the colonial government. This was both home and office to the first ten governors of Australia, Governor Arthur Philip being the first.

They charge a minimal fee of  $9 per person for a guided tour (special discounts for family and big groups apply).

Behind the Old Government House is  the Lachlan's Cafe and Restaurant with a very beautiful garden ambience.  It is available for private dining, social functions, wedding receptions and even for filming and photography venue hire. Sweet.

Around this structure is a 260 hectare haven for bikers, runners and hikers with uphill and downhill trails that run alongside the Parramatta river. It is also ideal for family picnics. Many historical and cultural events are also held here. The Hot Air Balloon Festival, the Australia Day Concert, the Carols at the Park, the Mother's Day Fun Run Classic (which I have joined for three years now) are all held here annually.

The park is also home to a recorded 120 bird species. Interestingly, there is also a place that has served as a resting place for flying foxes. I took this photo in one of my visits there around 11:00 noon just before the rain poured.

After a nice stroll and some bird watching, it's nice to enjoy some coffee or tea with a toast or sandwich to match at the Parramatta Park Cafe and Parramatta Park Event Centre. It sits right beside the riverbank where you can enjoy this nice view.