Belmore Park

Belmore Park is a sizeable green space in central Sydney, close to Central station and within easy reach of Surry Hills. Its broad lawns, tree-shaded paths and plentiful seating make it a practical place to pause between trips, take a walk or spend some time outdoors amid the city’s busy streets. Public toilets and shaded areas are also listed among its features.

The park has a strong connection to public life. It regularly hosts political demonstrations and cultural gatherings, including Lunar New Year celebrations, and sits on Gadigal Country. Its proximity to Central station also gives it particular significance for members of the Stolen Generations, while its ongoing links with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, activism and cultural practice are an important part of its identity.

There is considerable history beneath the everyday park setting. The area was once known as the Police Paddock because of its position beside the police barracks, and has long been associated with markets. Belmore Produce Markets and Paddy’s Markets were established opposite the park in the late 1860s, helping make the neighbourhood a busy commercial hub. The park was dedicated for public recreation in 1868, before the surrounding area was reshaped by the construction of Central railway station in 1901.

The City of Sydney has proposed renewing the park with simpler, resurfaced paths, improved lighting, additional seating and greenery, and new spaces for gathering and play. The plans also explore reimagining the bandstand as a play space and improving access from the western side, while retaining mature healthy trees. Until those works are completed, Belmore Park is best suited to solo walks, a quiet sit-down or experiencing one of the city’s established public gathering places rather than a destination built around facilities or programmed recreation.