Ivanhoe Park

Ivanhoe Park is a 4.53-hectare green space near the heart of Manly, with two distinct parts. The western side is Ivanhoe Park Botanic Garden, a traditional parkland and garden intended for community enjoyment, reflection and learning. On the eastern side, the ‘village green’ brings together an oval, tennis courts and bowling greens, giving the park both a landscaped and recreational character.

The park is also a place to explore Manly’s history. It was cared for by the Kay-ye-mai people until the late 1800s, when it developed as a gardenesque pleasure ground known initially as Manly Park. The site hosted public recreation, events and Manly Wildflower Shows, and part of the former Spit to Manly tram route once ran around its western and northern boundaries. A section of the tramway loop remains visible, while the War Memorial reflects the park’s later history. Ivanhoe Park was listed on the State Heritage Register in 2019.

It suits a range of visits, from a quiet solo walk or reflective wander through the garden to family and community outings around the broader park. The Friends of Ivanhoe Park Botanic Garden organise guest-speaker meetings, events, fundraising and volunteer gardening, adding an active local dimension for people interested in plants, horticulture, ecology, conservation or heritage. Visitors can reach the garden by ferry from Circular Quay or by buses stopping near Gilbert Park. Parking is limited in Raglan Street and nearby streets.