This restored historical district of offers everything from boutique shops to fine art galleries.
There are also a great collection of restaurants, street entertainment, historical buildings and artefacts from a much earlier Sydney.
The Sydney Opera House
The Sydney Opera House is but a short walk to the other side of Circular Quay at Bennelong Point. Over 3000 performances a year take place there and not just Opera, but Jazz, plays, dance, orchestras, movies and a lot more.
As the landing place of 1400 men, women and children in 1788 (over half being convicts) the restored district provides the visitor a fascinating insight into Australian history. The area is located a short walk west from the Sydney Opera House.
Just over 200 years ago, Captain Arthur Phillip brought his fleet of 10 square-rigged sailing ships to anchor in the peaceful little bay that was to become known as Sydney Cove. More on Sydney History.
With his ships, his crews, farm stock, a handful of settlers, an array of marines and the prisoners in their charge, Phillip established the farthest flung outpost of the British Empire.
One of Phillip’s first acts on arrival was to send ashore working parties of convicts to clear the land for the tents and bark shelters which would house the settlers.
The Name
Much of the settlement was established on the Western shore of Sydney Cove, a hillside with prominent outcrops of sandstone.
Named after the sandstone found in the area, the stone also was used in many of the original buildings. These have been restored and along with the cobbled lanes and stairs, the whole district of The Rocks has an old world ambience.
The district is the foundation place of Sydney (Australian history) and colonial Australia’s most significant historical site.
Attractions
Above all, it is one of Sydney’s foremost attractions - a centre of history and entertainment. Many of the buildings are near original - from the oldest building, Cadman’s Cottage, to Susannah Place, Campbells Storehouse and the Merchants House. See The Rocks Attractions.
Dining
The area has been witness to much of Australia’s turbulent history since Phillip’s arrival. Now, it offers much more than haunting reminders of the past, including some the best of Sydney’s restaurants, shopping and hotels.
It sits on the shoreline of the world’s Sydney Harbour. A sensitive conservation program has preserved the area’s character and heritage.
Hotels and Accommodation
Restored to its earlier charm, the district area is a hub of culture, of history, of business, social life and relaxation. And a great Sydney place to stay.
The Harbour Rocks Hotel, Observatory Hotel, Shangri-La, Sebel Pier One, Rendezvous Stafford Hotel and other quality hotels are all within short walking distance. See Sydney Hotels.
