Parramatta River Walk

Stretching along the banks of the Parramatta River from Parramatta Park to the Sydney Olympic Park, the Parramatta River Walk is a serene 12-kilometre shared path that weaves through parklands, historic sites, and pockets of bushland. This walk offers a peaceful escape from city life, with the river as a constant companion and glimpses of Sydney's colonial past along the way. It's a favourite for walkers, cyclists, and families looking for a flat, scenic route that blends nature with heritage.

Highlights & What to See

• Parramatta Park – Start at this World Heritage-listed park, home to Old Government House, Australia's oldest surviving public building. The park's sprawling lawns and riverfront are perfect for a picnic before setting off.
• Lake Parramatta Reserve – A short detour from the main walk leads to this tranquil lake with a swimming enclosure, walking trails, and abundant birdlife. It's a great spot for a dip on hot days.
• Bicentennial Square & Lennox Bridge – Pass through the heart of Parramatta's historic centre, where the 19th-century Lennox Bridge (the oldest surviving stone arch bridge in Australia) spans the river.
• Rydalmere & Ermington Bay – This stretch offers lovely river views, with mangroves and wetlands attracting herons, swans, and ducks. Benches along the way invite you to sit and watch the water.
• Meadowbank Park & Kissing Point – Enjoy the wetlands boardwalk and bird hide at Meadowbank, then continue to Kissing Point for a view of the river opening up towards Sydney Harbour.
• Putney & Henley – The walk passes through leafy riverside suburbs with cafes and parks, culminating at the Sydney Olympic Park boundary.

Suggested Time to Spend

Dedicate at least half a day (3–4 hours) to walk the entire route one-way, but many choose to do shorter sections. For a leisurely experience, start mid-morning from Parramatta Park, stop for lunch at one of the riverside cafes in Rydalmere or Meadowbank, and take a ferry back from Sydney Olympic Park to Parramatta. If you're cycling, the full route can be done in 1.5–2 hours. The walk is flat and accessible, making it suitable for all fitness levels.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Parramatta – Explore the city's historic core, including Old Government House and the Parramatta Heritage Centre, before or after your walk.
• Sydney Olympic Park – Extend your walk into the park's extensive network of trails, wetlands, and sporting venues, or visit the Brickpit Ring Walk for a unique perspective.
• Lake Parramatta – Combine a swim or a bushwalk around the lake with your river walk for a full day outdoors.
• Ermington & Rydalmere – These suburbs have excellent cafes and parks, ideal for a pit stop or a short detour.
• Meadowbank – The wetlands and ferry wharf here make a good turnaround point for a shorter walk.
• Kissing Point – This historic ferry wharf offers connections to the Parramatta River ferry service, linking you to Sydney Harbour.

Please check official sources for current details.