Mrs. Macaulay Chair

Introducing Mrs. Macaulay Chair

Mrs. Macquarie's Chair is located in the Royal Botanic Gardens Sydney. It was carved by craftsmen in memory of Mrs. Macquarie. Mrs. Macquarie's Chair is located at the northernmost part of the Royal Botanic Gardens, separated from the Sydney Opera House by only a narrow bay, and is a must-see for tourists.

Here, lush green grass reigns supreme, with towering, ancient trees dotting the lawns. Deep red wooden benches are neatly arranged in their shade, offering restful moments. Mrs. Macquarie's Chair, separated from the Sydney Opera House by a narrow bay, is a must-see for Australian tourists. Its observation deck offers the perfect vantage point for viewing both the Opera House and the Sydney Harbour. From here, you can admire both the Harbour and the Opera House simultaneously, awe-inspiring the seamless integration of these two modern architectural gems, their location and structure.

Climate and best time to travel

Subtropical humid monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1 hour

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

March 7:00-18:30

April and September 7:00-18:00

May and August 7:00-17:30

June and July 7:00-17:00

October 7:00-19:30

November to February 7:00-20:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Mrs. Macaulay Chair

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair is a historic sandstone bench carved in 1810 for Governor Lachlan Macquarie’s wife, Elizabeth Macquarie. The chair is located on a point in Sydney Harbour and is known for offering one of the best views of the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

It is located in the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney. You can walk to it from Circular Quay (about 10 minutes), or take a bus or ferry to the Opera House, which is close by.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is open every day, 24 hours a day. The best times to visit are early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful light for photography.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

There is no entrance fee to visit Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair as it is a public outdoor site within the Royal Botanic Garden.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No tickets are required to visit Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, as it is a free outdoor attraction.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Visiting Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair typically takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend enjoying the views and taking photos.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair itself, with stunning views of Sydney Harbour.
• The surrounding Royal Botanic Garden, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

There are no specific guided tours for Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair, but free self-guided audio tours of the Royal Botanic Garden may include it as part of the route.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair offers one of the best views of Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge.
• The surrounding area, including the Royal Botanic Garden, provides beautiful spots for landscape photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at Circular Quay, stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden, and make your way to Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair to enjoy the views.
• After visiting the chair, explore other parts of the Botanic Garden or walk along the coastline for more scenic views.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

While there are no specific night tours, the view of Sydney Harbour at night from Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair is stunning. It’s a great spot for nighttime photography of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge lit up.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

It can get crowded during the day, especially in the afternoon. The least crowded times are early in the morning or late in the evening, particularly on weekdays.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Toilets are available nearby in the Royal Botanic Garden.
• There are cafes and rest areas throughout the garden, but there are no food facilities directly at Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Yes, Mrs. Macquarie’s Chair is accessible to all visitors, including the elderly, children, and those with disabilities. The walking paths to the chair are paved, making it easy to reach.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

As the site is free to visit, cash is not required. However, if you’re purchasing food or drinks at nearby cafes, cards and mobile payments are accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• There are cafes within the Royal Botanic Garden, such as The Botanic House.
• Additionally, Circular Quay offers many restaurants and cafes with views of the harbour.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, there are vegetarian, vegan, and halal options available at many cafes in the Royal Botanic Garden and Circular Quay.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• The Park Hyatt Sydney is located near Circular Quay and offers luxurious accommodations.
• There are also numerous hotels in the Circular Quay area, including the Sydney Opera House area.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Sydney Opera House is just a short walk away.
• The Sydney Harbour Bridge is also nearby and can be explored further via the BridgeClimb or a walk along the pedestrian pathway.
• The Royal Botanic Garden itself offers many walking paths and themed gardens to explore.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops in Circular Quay and the Royal Botanic Garden where you can find items like Sydney-themed merchandise, Aboriginal art, and botanical-themed products.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

You can easily walk to other nearby attractions, such as the Opera House or the Harbour Bridge. Alternatively, buses, trains, and ferries from Circular Quay are accessible to continue your journey around Sydney.