Mrs Macquarie's Chair Monument

Address: Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, Mrs Macquarie’s Road, Mrs Macquarie Point, Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Website: https://www.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/

Hours: Always open (outdoor site)

Admission: Free

Mrs Macquarie’s Chair is a single-seat rock bench carved into sandstone on a promontory in the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney, created as a vantage point overlooking Sydney Harbour.

The site provides a framed viewpoint with wide views across the harbour toward the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge and is a short walk from the botanic gardens and major waterfront attractions. It is a popular spot for photography and informal sightseeing.

The bench was cut into the rock by convict labour in the early 19th century for Elizabeth Macquarie and has retained its name and role as a harbour lookout since that time.

Located on Mrs Macquarie’s Point within the Royal Botanic Garden, it lies on the eastern edge of Sydney’s central harbour area, close to the Opera House and within the City of Sydney.

• Best viewing times: offers an unobstructed viewpoint of Sydney Harbour, including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, popular at sunrise and sunset.
• Access: a short, level walk from the Royal Botanic Garden provides easy access for most visitors.

Mrs Macquarie’s Chair is an easy walk from Circular Quay (about 15-20 minutes) through the Royal Botanic Garden, or a shorter stroll from the Opera House and Domain. Follow the garden paths toward Mrs Macquarie Point for the best approach.

There is no direct vehicular access to the Chair itself; the nearest public transport stops are at Circular Quay and St James Station.

• Walk from Circular Quay or the Opera House via the Royal Botanic Garden - the route offers better views of the harbour.
• Sunset is a popular time; arrive early to claim a good spot on the rocks.
• The sandstone bench can be slippery after rain; the immediate area has no dedicated facilities - use nearby Royal Botanic Garden amenities.