Elkington Park

Elkington Park sits on Glassop Street in Balmain, Sydney's characterful inner-west peninsula suburb. A much-loved waterfront park, it's a lovely green space by the harbour — combining grassy lawns, mature trees, lovely water views and the historic Dawn Fraser Baths (Sydney's oldest swimming baths) nearby, the kind of peaceful, scenic spot that's become a genuine local treasure.

The appeal is that combination of beautiful harbour-side green space and great amenity: room to walk, picnic and relax, lovely views over the water and the heritage charm of the area, ideal for a stroll, a picnic, some time by the harbour or a visit to the nearby historic baths. It's a lovely, peaceful pocket of the inner west with a genuine sense of place.

With a 4.6 rating from more than 420 reviews, it's clearly a well-loved spot. The park is free and open, but facilities, the nearby baths' opening and any events vary, so it's worth taking sun protection and checking details before a special trip — though for a stroll, a picnic or some time by the water, you can generally just turn up and enjoy Elkington Park in Balmain.