Sydney Walks The Rocks Walking Tours

Turn of the Century Sydney - Walking Tour. Come on a guided walk through the heart of The Rocks to investigate the oldest parts of Sydney - once a bustling port city laden with merchants, sailors and traders. Explore the site of Sydney’s first Chinatown, learn about our rich maritime history, and hear of the hardship and poverty endured by Sydney’s poor working class residents at the turn of the twentieth Century. Learn about the great men of this time who transformed Sydney's convict past into a modern future. Sydney and in fact Australia's future was decided at this important time in history when the colonies came together as a Nation for the first time; hear about these events that happened over 100 years ago and visit the places in Sydney where they are still remembered to this day.


The Walk:
We will walk and talk our way from Circular Quay, through The Rocks and over to Walsh Bay, and will also stop for a break when it's convenient. There are plenty of coffee shops and pubs along the way, depending on your preference! We will finish up on George Street, right underneath the Harbour Bridge; from here you can easily make your way back to Circular Quay to catch a ferry or train. There are also many places we can recommend to stop for drinking or dining your afternoon away if you would like to stay on in the area.
Optional extra:
Finish up at the Sydney Harbour Bridge Pylon Lookout for not only spectacular views, but a history of the construction of the Harbour Bridge. See displays, models and exhibits as you climb the 200 easy stairs to the top of the southern pylon, where you will enjoy 360 degree views around Sydney Harbour. This add-on is highly recommended, and is a great way to finish the tour! You can add this to your order during the booking process.

Bookings:
Please book and pay online, you will receive an email confirming your booking, and also a reminder before the tour. If you would like a different start time or have any special requests, please get in touch as we can easily customize our walks to suit your requirements. Our child rate applies to children and teenagers up to and including 17 years - many children will likely find this tour very interesting, however this tour is not recommended for children under 10 years of age. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Our maximum group size for this walk is 16 people, and no minimum - we will still tour with just one guest! This walk can also be easily adapted for people in wheelchairs, please let us know in advance by phone or email if you have any special requirements.

Tour Details: Duration is approx 2 hours, or 3 hours including the Pylon lookout Distance is approx 2km [1.25 Miles]
Meeting point is in front of the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) the side facing Circular Quay (find your guide in front of the big arrow - you will know it when you see it!) Finish point is at the top of George St right underneath the approaches to the Harbour Bridge There are plenty of toilets in the area for comfort stops when required This tour operates in all weather conditions, there are many places to shelter along the way if the weather isn't so nice but remember to bring a jacket or raincoat.
What to bring:
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking outdoors - high heels are NOT recommended! Wear a hat and sunscreen if it is sunny Wear a jacket if it is cooler Bring a water bottle if you like - there are also plenty of places to stop along the way for refreshments if required Don't bring your luggage with you, this won't be practical. Let us know before the walk if you need to store your bags and we can help you with this.
Questions, comments or special requests:
Please email info@sydneywalks.com.au at any time of day, or phone during daylight hours Sydney time (02) 9188 7885 and we will do our very best to accommodate your needs.