Sydney Bradleys Head - A Special Viewpoint

While Sydney has many famous tourist attractions, there are also some lesser-known hidden gems. One of them is Bradleys Head, part of Sydney Harbour National Park.

On Saturday, when the golf course was closed due to recent rain, I visited Bradleys Head, a spot not well known even to Sydney residents, with panoramic views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Sydney's downtown skyline.

Location and basic information

• Location: Bradleys Head Road, Mosman, Sydney NSW (near Taronga Zoo)
• Access: Approximately a 15-minute drive from Sydney City. Public transport is available by taking the ferry from Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo Wharf, where you can access the walking trails. If driving, a day pass for the national park costs $8.

Bradleys Head is located in the Mosman area, right next to Taronga Zoo. Its proximity to downtown Sydney makes it a popular weekend getaway or short hike. The area around Bradleys Head wharf is also a popular fishing spot. I've never fished there before, so I'm not sure what kind of fish they catch, but a few people were fishing that day.

 

History and Background of Bradleys Head

Bradleys Head is named after Lieutenant William Bradley, a naval officer on one of the first British ships to arrive in Australia in 1788. It was long a key stronghold in the defence of Sydney Harbour, and remnants of the cannons and defensive structures used during that time can still be seen today.

Especially during World War I and World War II, Bradleys Head served as a crucial military stronghold protecting Sydney Harbour, and military relics and monuments still remain today. As you walk along the coastline, you'll encounter traces of that era everywhere, making it a place of historical significance, not just a tourist attraction.

Best viewpoint

The biggest attraction of Bradleys Head is that it offers a panoramic view of Sydney Harbour, including the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Opera House, and Sydney City, as well as Rose Bay, Watsons Bay, and South Head across Sydney Harbour.

The sunset view from here is especially beautiful, and it is well known as a photo spot, making it a popular destination for photography enthusiasts and travel bloggers. 

 

 

Hiking & Trails

Bradleys Head is one of the main walking trails in Sydney Harbour National Park.

• Bradleys Head to Chowder Bay Walk (approximately 3km)
• Bradleys Head to Taronga Zoo Walk (approximately 1.5km)

The two coastal walking trails are well-maintained and maintained, with no significant ups or downs, making them ideal for a leisurely stroll while enjoying views of Sydney Harbour. On this day, many families were enjoying a late Saturday morning stroll along the coastal path.

 

Tips for visiting Bradleys Head

If you're planning a visit, we recommend early morning or around sunset when there aren't many people. Because the national park parking lot is limited, it's best to arrive a little earlier. If you're looking to see the sunset, late afternoon is recommended. If you plan to walk the trails, be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and water. 

 

A place with special emotions

Bradleys Head is a unique location where you can experience both the hustle and bustle of Sydney's bustling city center and the tranquillity of nature.
Standing against the backdrop of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and endless ocean, you'll quickly understand why it's considered a prime wedding photo location, reminiscent of a scene straight out of a movie.

 

While the walking trails are large enough to easily be explored in two or three hours, the impact of that short time is no small feat. If you're looking for a unique experience in Sydney, consider a trip to Bradleys Head instead of the more well-known, bustling tourist destinations. You might not have everything, but you'll create special memories in this special place where you can see it all.