Getting Married at Observatory Hill, Sydney

Observatory Hill, perched above The Rocks in Sydney, is one of the city's most iconic and beautiful locations for a wedding ceremony. With its historic charm, majestic Moreton Bay fig trees, and unparalleled views of the harbour, it’s a picture-perfect setting for saying 'I do.' It’s easy to see why so many couples, from Sydney-siders to those planning a destination wedding, choose this stunning spot for their special day.

5 Reasons Why You Should Get Married at Observatory Hill, Sydney

1. Unbeatable Sydney Harbour Views 🌟

   The park offers a breathtaking panorama that includes the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the sparkling water, and the distant skyline. This provides a truly world-class, postcard-perfect backdrop for your ceremony and all-important wedding photos.

2. The Charming Rotunda Option 🏛️

   Observatory Hill features a classic, white rotunda (bandstand) which is a popular and elegant focal point for a ceremony. It's a gorgeous piece of architecture that adds a touch of historic sophistication to your wedding, and also provides a potential structure for a rainy day.

3. Magnificent Fig Tree Shade 🌳

   The park is home to several enormous, century-old Moreton Bay Fig trees. Their expansive canopies offer beautiful natural shade, which is a blessing for guests (and your photographer!) during a sunny Sydney wedding, making for a cooler, more comfortable experience.

4. Perfectly Positioned for Post-Ceremony Fun 🥂

   Located right next to The Rocks and a short distance from Circular Quay and Barangaroo, you and your guests are perfectly situated to walk straight into a fantastic celebration. There are numerous bars, restaurants, and top-tier reception venues just minutes away.

5. Historic and Romantic Ambiance 📜

   Being adjacent to the historic Sydney Observatory and in the heart of the original settlement area of The Rocks, the hill carries a wonderful sense of history and romance. It gives your wedding a unique and timeless feel that a modern venue simply can't replicate.

Booking and Fees for Observatory Hill, Sydney

Yes, a booking is required to hold a wedding ceremony at Observatory Hill, especially if you plan to use any furniture, set up equipment, or reserve the popular Rotunda.

The authority responsible for booking the public parkland (including the Rotunda) is the City of Sydney. Please contact them directly for the most up-to-date fees and specific requirements.

City of Sydney Contact Details

• Name: City of Sydney (Open Space Bookings)
• Phone: 02 9265 9333
• Website: City of Sydney - Rotunda, Observatory Hill (Search 'Fees and charges for outdoor venue hire' on the website for the latest price list)
• Email: openspacebookings@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au

Booking Requirements and Associated Fees (Please Confirm All with Council)

As an "Iconic Park", Observatory Hill generally has a specific flat fee for wedding ceremonies. Based on current council information, here are the general requirements:

• Booking Time: Ceremonies are typically booked in a 3-hour block.
• Standard Fee: The fee for wedding ceremonies in Iconic Parks is a flat fee (e.g., approximately $855 for a 3-hour block for commercial/private users, as of recent fee schedules, but this price is subject to change annually).
• Guest Numbers: Guest numbers may be limited (e.g., to 35 guests including the wedding party, or larger numbers may be permitted with a specific permit and may incur additional charges).
• Infrastructure: You can generally bring limited items such as chairs (e.g., up to 30), a small table, and a carpet. Larger infrastructure, catering, or vehicles are usually not permitted.
• Exclusive Use: If you book the Rotunda at Observatory Hill, you will have exclusive use of the Rotunda itself during your booking, but the surrounding parkland remains open to the public.

Getting There: Observatory Hill, Sydney

Please aim to arrive 15 minutes prior to your ceremony (along with your guests) to ensure you are in the right location and ready to go at your scheduled time. Observatory Hill is located in Millers Point/Dawes Point, high above The Rocks.

Ways to Get to Observatory Hill

1. Private Car/Taxi/Rideshare:

   • Parking Situation: Metered street parking is available on surrounding streets like Upper Fort Street and Watson Road. However, spaces are limited, particularly on weekends, and can be expensive. Guests should allow plenty of time to find a spot.
   • Planning: Advise guests that parking is a challenge and public transport or rideshares are often easier.

2. Train & Walking from Circular Quay:

   • How to Plan: Take the train to Circular Quay Station. From there, it is an enjoyable 10-15 minute uphill walk through The Rocks. Head west on George Street, turn right onto Argyle Street, and then left up the steps/paths towards the Observatory.

3. Train & Walking from Wynyard Station:

   • How to Plan: Take the train to Wynyard Station. Use the York Street exit and walk north towards the harbour, past Lang Park, and up through the historic streets of Millers Point. This is approximately a 10-15 minute walk.

4. Bus Services:

   • How to Plan: Several bus routes service the area around The Rocks and Barangaroo. Services along Kent Street or Hickson Road will leave you with a short uphill walk to the park. Use a trip planning app like the NSW Transport Trip Planner for the most current route information from your starting location.

Wet Weather Options: Observatory Hill, Sydney

Now it doesn't happen often, but when it does you will need to shelter under trees or bring umbrellas - how romantic.

Convenient Wet Weather Option

The most convenient and common wet weather option available on-site at Observatory Hill is:

• The Rotunda: If you have booked the Rotunda (bandstand) through the City of Sydney Council, this structure provides a covered space for the couple, the celebrant, and usually a smaller number of guests. You will have exclusive use of the rotunda during your booking time. This is the best on-site shelter option available.