Sydney Harbour Bridge

Sydney Harbour Bridge is the world's tallest steel arch bridge and is one of the most recognisable bridges in the world. It spans 1149 metres and joins the Northern with the Southern suburbs of Sydney Harbour and transports over 200,000 cars daily. Made with over 52,000 tonnes of steel and approximately 6 million rivets, it's a structure of truly epic proportions. The Sydney Harbour Bridge is not just a transport line but a living landmark and a crossing experience for both tourists and Sydneysiders alike.

There are many ways to experience this iconic landmark. One of the most popular is with BridgeClimb Sydney, which has been running since 1998. Learn about the fascinating history of the bridge and its place in the city as you make the exhilarating climb to the top. The open vista provides an unforgettable experience, and the scope of the view is spectacular.

History

Before 1839, the island was covered with red gums trees and was thought to be a great fishing spot for the natives. Years later, Cockatoo Island became the site of a penal establishment to alleviate overcrowding on Nordfolk Island. The convicts built the prison barracks, a military guardhouse and official residences. Between 1930 and 1945, during WWII, The Royal Navy used the island as a shipbuilding and dockyard facility and it was even the construction site of Australia's first steel warship. The island's maritime activity ceased in 1992 and it reopened to the public in 2007.

Things To Do

There are many ways to experience the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The first things that people look into is the Bridge Climb; experience walking to the top of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge! It's not cheap but the view at dusk is priceless so make sure you book ahead. More info here.

Of course you can cross it, by car, or by train, or by bike. But if you want to take it all in at your own pace you can walk across it and get some great views of the Eastern side of the Harbour. You'll often see people doing their daily run across it also so for those wanting to be a bit more active give it a try and then replenish yourself at one of the eateries either at Milson's Point on the North side or The Rocks on the South side/city side. A lot of people think about crossing the bridge but it's great to experience being underneath it and admire it's size from that perspective. The parkland at either side is great for a picnic and to just relax on the grass on a sunny day. There are lots of amenities/facilities on either side so it's up to you on where you go.

Getting There

Very straight forward to get to. By train just get to Wynyard Station or Milson's Point depending on which side you want to be on. Plenty of buses also, take one going to Circular Quay and then you'll be at The Rocks, the oldest area of Sydney providing a lovely walk towards the Harbour Bridge on the South side.