Surry Hills is one of Sydney’s most characterful inner suburbs, blending heritage architecture with creative energy. This Surry Hills neighbourhood guide covers the best things to see, eat and experience, plus essential visitor information.
History and heritage of Surry Hills
The Victorian verandas of Surry Hills, sprinkled with the occasional art deco beauty and individualistic 21st century architectural statement, feel a world away from Sydney’s showy beach and harbourside haunts.
The former slum suburb, just to the east of Central Station, has been revitalised by art studios, handsome old pubs turned trendy and experimental in-the-know restaurants. It’s hip meets heritage rather than sun, sand and million-dollar views – the Sydney of people rather than postcards.
Where to stay in Surry Hills
The secret stay: The ‘poetry wall’ of open books, help-yourself honour bar and annotated portraits of lascivious local legends give the Crystalbrook Albion character. But this former convent’s plant-smothered roof garden, with Parisien-style park benches, is the true heart-melter.
Why book the Slums, Slashings & Sly-Grog History Tour of Surry Hills & Darlinghurst?
- Walk through Sydney’s hidden underworld: Explore the secret laneways of Surry Hills & Darlinghurst, once hubs of crime, brothels and sly-grog shops.
- Guided by a crime historian: Hear vivid stories of razor-gang wars, female crime bosses and the neighbourhood’s gritty past.
- Discover transformation: From notorious 1920s slums to today’s trendy enclave — see how this area changed over time.
- Small-group experience: Intimate size keeps things personal and immersive, not rushed.
- Walking tour in central Sydney: Easily accessed from your city hotel; finish near Darlinghurst’s old pubs and cafés.
Best bars and nightlife in Surry Hills
The locals-only bar: Once a movie studio HQ screening room, the Golden Age is part glamorous 20s pastiche cocktail bar, part intimate cinema.
The dashingly deco basement joint squeezes in live musicians amid the lavish drapes, mood-lit banquettes and top drawer Old Fashioneds.
Parks and outdoor spaces in Surry Hills
The serene park: Bright yellow umbrellas and chimneys painted like psychedelic cartoon periscopes bless Prince Alfred Park with a quirk factor, but it’s the 50-metre open air pool behind the sculpted grass mounds that makes it a supreme summer hang-out.
Five great things to do while you’re in Sydney
- Take a small group tour to the Blue Mountains – with a Parramatta River cruise thrown in.
- See the landmarks and secret beaches – on a Sydney Harbour cruise.
- Discover Sydney’s most historic neighbourhood – on a Rocks walking tour.
- Go on a whale-watching cruise – and admire migrating humpbacks.
- Learn to surf at Bondi Beach – with beginner surfing lessons.
Art and culture in Surry Hills
The under-radar sight: Inside a converted warehouse, the Brett Whiteley Studio was where Australia’s beloved eclectic expressionist painted and sculpted.
It now hosts the prodigious Whiteley’s works, both finished and unfinished. Consider it your Australian art intro.
Where to eat in Surry Hills
The relaxed restaurant: The fizzing casual-cool vibe of Chin Chin comes partly from the theatre of the wrapped-around open kitchen.
But it’s mainly from the meticulously savvy craft beer and cocktail lists, plus a menu that scours Asia and throws everything together in gleefully inventive, often fiery ways.
Essential visitor information for Surry Hills
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What are the public transport options to Surry Hills? | Surry Hills is a short walk from Central Station, which connects to Sydney Trains, buses and light rail services across the city. |
| Where can you park in Surry Hills? | Paid street parking is available on many streets, but spaces can be limited. Nearby secure options include Wilson Parking at 55 Holt Street and Secure Parking on Riley Street. |
| What are the pool opening hours at Prince Alfred Park? | Open daily from 6am to 8pm (7am to 7pm on public holidays. Entry costs approximately A$7.90 for adults. |
| What are typical restaurant hours in Surry Hills? | Most restaurants open for lunch from 12.00pm and dinner from 5.30pm to 10.00pm. Booking ahead is recommended for weekends. |
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More Sydney travel
Other Sydney travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- A luxury travel guide to Sydney.
- How to get into the Sydney Opera House without buying tickets.
- A first-timer’s guide to visiting Luna Park in Sydney.
- A practical guide to visiting the Australian National Maritime Museum.
- Planning a visit to Lane Cove National Park.
