Upper North Shore Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and experience in Sydney's Upper North Shore with our comprehensive travel guide. Plan your trip now!


Introduction to Upper North Shore

Located in the northern suburbs of Sydney, Upper North Shore is a charming destination famous for its lush greenery, quaint neighborhoods, and proximity to some of Australia’s most beautiful national parks. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know for an unforgettable trip to Upper North Shore.

List of Places to Visit in Upper North Shore

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Gordon Library and History Walk: Trace the history of Upper North Shore at the Gordon Library and take a stroll along its history walk displaying photographs of the area from the early 1900s.
  • Rose Seidler House: Explore the iconic mid-century modernist design of this house designed by architect Harry Seidler.
  • Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden: Delight in over 1,000 native Australian flowers and plants in this stunning garden.
  • St. Ives Showground and Precinct: Witness local markets, food festivals, and cultural events at this showground and precinct.

Natural Attractions of Upper North Shore: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lane Cove National Park: Go on a bushwalk, picnic, or kayak day trip in the beautiful Lane Cove National Park, which is home to over 140 species of birds.
  • Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park: Discover one of Australia’s oldest national parks and enjoy breathtaking views from the West Head Lookout.
  • Bobbin Head: Relax at this peaceful riverside park offering hiking trails, fishing spots, picnic areas, and stunning views of the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.
  • Garigal National Park: Explore the diverse flora and fauna of Garigal National Park through scenic walks, bike trails, and horse-riding tracks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Upper North Shore

  • The Great North Walk: This popular 250km walk begins at Sydney’s central business district and runs through Upper North Shore, taking walkers past stunning highlights such as Berowra Valley, Marramarra National Park, Lane Cove National Park, and many more.
  • The Gibberagong Track: This beautiful track winds through the heart of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, offering a glimpse of its unique flora and fauna, spectacular views of bobbin head, and opportunities for swimming or fishing at the end of the trail.
  • Turramurra to North Turramurra Loop: This easy 4km walk follows a scenic route, starting at Turramurra train station and going past Bobbin Head, Apple Tree Bay, and the natural wonders of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park.

Best Things to Do in Upper North Shore: Activities and Tours

  • Harley-Davidson motorcycle tours: Experience the beauty of Upper North Shore on a Harley Davidson motorcycle tour, taking in the national park scenery, winding roads, and breathtaking viewpoints.
  • Cooking classes: Learn how to cook authentic Thai, Vietnamese, or Indonesian cuisine from the experts at Kylie’s Kitchen Culinary School.
  • Art and craft workshops: Turn your creativity into pieces of art with workshops at Art Est or the Creative Innovation Centre.
  • Horseback riding: Gallop through the serene bushland of Forest Hills Trail Rides or Sydney Trail Riding Centre.

Week-Long Itinerary for Upper North Shore

Day 1: Spend your first day relaxing at Bobbin Head, taking a picnic or having a barbecue.

Day 2: Take a walk around Lane Cove Reserve, the beautiful 10km path that leads you through bushland, and also pass by Carisbrook Reserve.

Day 3: Explore Sydney’s best mid-century modern architecture with visits to the Rose Seidler House, Harry Seidler House, and the Wahroonga Water Tower.

Day 4: Book a Harley-Davidson tour and experience the beauty of Upper North Shore on the back of a motorcycle.

Day 5: Visit the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden and immerse yourself in over 1,000 native Australian flowers and plants.

Day 6: Horse rides or hiking in the Garigal National Park, with the option of Bush Breakfast or barbecue lunch.

Day 7: Visit the stately colonial home Gladstone Park, with an easy half-day visit to the Gordon Library and History Walk, with a delightful stroll through the surrounding residential area.

Food and Drink Scene of Upper North Shore

Must-Try Dishes

  • Damper and billy tea: This classic Australian combo offers a simple but authentic taste of Australian bush life.
  • Meat pies: Enjoy a traditional Aussie pie filled with various types of meats and vegetables.
  • Seafood: Sample some of the freshest seafood in Sydney at restaurants in the neighbouring suburbs of Pittwater and Berowra.
  • High tea: Embrace the colonial era at The Orangery Tea Room with high tea and light bites in charming surrounds.

Local Beverages

  • Australian wines: The Upper North Shore is home to many renowned vineyards and wineries such as Hanging Tree Vineyard and Mille D’Or Wines.
  • Local beer: Try the classic, handcrafted beers at Hornsby Brewery, such as the Pacific Ale, XPA, and IPA.
  • Cocktails and specialty drinks: Discover creative cocktails and spirits at bars like The Hayberry and The Public Dining Room.

Where to Stay in Upper North Shore: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Eliot’s Nest: A beautifully restored guesthouse with charming interiors and a stunning garden view.
  • Sanctuary Hotel: Located in the heart of Hornsby, this 4-star hotel offers all the amenities and comfort for a luxurious stay.
  • Thornleigh Golf Lodge: A modern, newly renovated lodge with a range of facilities and a central location in Lane Cove National Park nearby.

What to Buy in Upper North Shore: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Walsh Mushrooms: A family-owned mushroom farm dedicated to supplying the freshest mushrooms possible.
  • Climbers Way: Stock up on rock climbing equipment or take classes at this popular store.
  • Pacific BBQ Supply: Find high-quality BBQ equipment and accessories for your next cookout.
  • Gordon Jewellers: Keep the memory of your trip with a stunning piece of jewelry from this family-owned shop.

Local Culture and Customs of Upper North Shore

The Upper North Shore is a unique mix of cultured and casual. People here love good food, dressing well, and enjoying the great outdoors. Upper North Shore has a distinct and charming suburban vibe and is known for being family-friendly and safe.

Best Time to Visit Upper North Shore

The best time to visit would undoubtedly be during the summer in Australia, from December to February, as the weather is sunny, and there is no shortage of outdoor activities and exploring to be done. However, the Upper North Shore is an all-year-round destination, and there’s always something to see and do, no matter what season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Upper North Shore

Do:

  • Enjoy the natural beauty of Upper North Shore by taking bushwalks or kayaking down its waterways.
  • Try the local delicacies and support the local food scene.
  • Dress in layers and carry water with you when exploring the national parks.
  • Visit the Gordon Library and History Walk for a deeper understanding of the area.

Don’t:

  • Feed the native Australian wildlife.
  • Forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellent when spending time outdoors.
  • Forget to check out the local farmers markets for fresh produce and souvenirs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Upper North Shore

Upper North Shore is one of the safer and peaceful regions in Sydney, with low crime rates. Always keep an eye on your belongings and practice common sense, just as you would in any other urban area.

Health in Upper North Shore

Australia is free from most major health threats. However, it’s always wise to take precautions when travelling. Be sure to check with your GP or a travel health clinic like Travel Doctor about what vaccinations and preventative medication are recommended before you depart.

Getting to Upper North Shore: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Upper North Shore

The most convenient airport to Upper North Shore is Sydney Airport, which is around 34km away and offers excellent connections to major international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Upper North Shore

Major bus services TfNSW and Hillsbus run on most days to and from Upper North Shore to nearby suburbs such as Hornsby, Turramurra, and St Ives.

Other Options

The Upper North Shore is serviced by both city trains and local buses. Check the Cityrail website for a timetable.

How to Get Around in Upper North Shore

A convenient way to reach different destinations in Upper North Shore is through a combination of walking, cycling, and public transport or even by car, especially for areas that are a bit further out.

Where to Go Next from Upper North Shore: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Sydney City: Take a train journey to Sydney’s city centre and experience the cosmopolitan vibe with its luxurious shopping centres and famous landmarks.
  • Central Coast: Explore the Central coast, just north of Sydney and famous for its stunning beaches, lively beachfront towns like Terrigal and cultural cuisine from around the globe.
  • Hawkesbury River: In this north of Sydney, you will find picturesque rivers, charming historical towns, and beautiful bushwalks to be enjoyed on the banks of Hawkesbury River.

Conclusion

With the beautiful natural surroundings and rich cultural mix, the Upper North Shore is a fantastic destination to explore for those in search of a serene, family-friendly environment with lots of fun to be had. With an abundance of experiences to offer, you won’t be disappointed, and Upper North Shore is sure to wow you with its daily surprises.

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