Paddington Gates

Paddington Gates form one of eight historic entrance gates to Centennial Park, giving visitors a distinctive way into one of Sydney’s best-known public parklands. Built between 1887 and 1900, the gates reflect the Picturesque ambitions behind the creation of the People’s Park and are described by Centennial Parklands as their most imposing expression.

The gates are part of a much larger green space with a long history. Centennial Park was once a swamp, was later reserved as a water source for Sydney, and opened as a public park in 1888. Today, the parklands offer space to explore the outdoors, learn about local history and heritage, and discover trees, birds and other animals. Centennial and Moore Park are located on the traditional lands of the Gadigal people, adding important cultural context to a visit.

Paddington Gates suit visitors using Centennial Park for a quiet walk, a solo outing or time outdoors with family and friends. The wider parklands also run tours, community programs, wellness activities and school-holiday programs, with activities designed for all ages. Centennial Park is open to the public year-round, although vehicle access is generally restricted between sunset and sunrise; gate access follows the park’s seasonal opening arrangements.