The Rocks

Overview

The Rocks is Sydney's oldest neighbourhood, a compact precinct of cobblestone lanes, convict-era sandstone warehouses, and colonial pubs huddled beneath the Harbour Bridge's southern approach. Weekend markets and walking tours bring its layered history to life.

Highlights

• The Rocks Markets: Weekend markets (Sat–Sun 10:00–17:00) with handmade crafts, food, and Australian souvenirs.
• Cadmans Cottage: Sydney's oldest surviving residential building (1816).
• Susannah Place Museum: Four terrace houses preserved as a time capsule of working-class life from the 1840s to 1990s.

History

First settled by convicts in 1788, The Rocks became a rowdy maritime quarter of sailors, whalers, and gangs. Plague outbreaks in 1900 led to mass demolition, and 1970s green bans by the Builders Labourers Federation saved what remained from redevelopment.

Visitor Tips

• Walking tours: Free heritage walking tours depart daily from Cadmans Cottage.
• Pubs: The Lord Nelson (1841) and Hero of Waterloo (1843) are among Sydney's oldest pubs.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.