Hyde Park Barracks

Hyde Park Barracks - a museum about itself

Front gate to the Hyde Park Barracks
Front gate to the Hyde Park Barracks cc licensed photo by Ben Garrett

UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hyde Park Barracks has a fascinating history, having served numerous roles since opening in 1819. Located at adjacent to the northeast corner of Hyde Park this historical building was ironically designed by a convict (Francis Greenway) for convicts.

They barracks were designed to house up to 600 men, but the population of convicts housed there soon grew as high as 1400 men. From 1819 to 1848, it is estimated that up to 30,000 men and boys had been housed there.

In 1848 there was a huge need for women to be brought into the Colony due to a population imbalance and the need for more workers, servants and mothers. Due to this demand, Hyde Park Barracks became the processing centre for 1000s of immigrating women and even many children. In 1862 wards were added to the top floor for women with no means to support themselves.

In 1887 the Barracks were renamed Chancery Square and converted to Government offices and courtrooms where, over the years, thousands of public service employees worked out of cramped and run down offices.

In the late 1970s the Hyde Park Barracks were cleaned up and converted to a museum about their own amazing history. In 2019 the museum was closed to facilitate an $18 million upgrade to create an more contemporary and interactive visitor experience that includes over 4000 original artefacts.

A visit to the Hyde Park Barracks is well worth the nominal cost of admission.

Nearby attractions: Hyde Park, St Mary's Cathedral, Sydney Tower, and the Australian Museum.

Facts For Your Visit

Fee: Yes

Hyde Park Barracks Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays

  • Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Address: Queens Square, Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Phone: (02) 8239 2311

Official Website: Hyde Park Barracks

Hyde Park Barracks Reviews

Rated 4.6 out of 5 Star Rating

5 Star Rating 5/5 - Uncover Australia's captivating history at the Hyde Barracks Museum! "I had the privilege of visiting the Hyde Barracks Museum in Sydney, and I was utterly captivated by the phenomenal history within its walls. But what truly made my experience unforgettable was the expert storytelling that brought each exhibit to life. As I wandered through the museum, I was mesmerized by the narratives accompanying each display. The passion and depth of knowledge shared by the guides was inspiring, and I found myself deeply moved by the stories of resilience, hope, and perseverance. The Hyde Barracks Museum is more than just a historical site – it's a testament to the courage and determination of the ancestors and immigrants who shaped Australia. It's a reminder of the struggles and triumphs that forged the nation's identity. Preserving this history for future generations is crucial, and I applaud the museum's efforts to honor the past while educating the present. If you're interested in Australian history, this museum is an absolute must-visit. _Highlights:_ - Exceptional storytelling and guided tours - Poignant and thought-provoking exhibits - Rich history and cultural significance - A moving tribute to Australia's ancestors and immigrants - Expert staff and knowledgeable guides _Will I return?_ Absolutely! _Recommendation:_ Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in Australia's fascinating history. Visit the Hyde Barracks Museum and let the stories of the past inspire and educate you. ❤️
Janice Haynes - 2 weeks ago

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5 Star Rating This is a terrific opportunity to explore the history of Sydney and Australian convicts and refugees in the 1800's. It's FREE and they have audio guides in several languages, so it's more interesting to keep you engaged in the stories. The audio is quite interactive as it tells you not only the stories but also the testimonies of the survivors and is programmed to start automatically at each station. It took me about 2 hours to do the whole tour. 100% recommendable.
Laura Diaz Pardo - a month ago

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5 Star Rating Hyde Park Barracks is a historical treasure in Sydney, deserving of 5 stars. The museum offers a rich glimpse into Australia's convict past, with well-presented exhibits and informative guided tours. The building itself is beautifully restored, adding to the immersive experience. A must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone curious about Australia's fascinating heritage.
X X - 3 months ago

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5 Star Rating I had a few free hours between two appointments, I walked in front of the museum and I saw it was free so went in. It's great! They give you an audio guide (for free as well) and the whole experience took me about an hour and a half. It was like watching a movie and at the end (spoiler) there are interviews of descendants of both, Aboriginal people and convicts you've just learnt about during the visit. Emotional. A real good experience. Make sure you start from the top level when you go to the second building
Elena Arena - 4 months ago

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5 Star Rating Excellent museum about the life of convicts and then immigrants in Sydney in the 19th century. It is interactive and well explained and visual. The audio guide is really good with different testimonies and sounds for a better immersion and the comments change as you move around. I really enjoy my visit. It is how a history museum should be.
Sarah H. - 3 months ago

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Directions

Train Line Nearest Station Walking Time
Light Rail L2QVB8 minutes
T2, T3, or T8St. James 2 minutes

How to get to Hyde Park Barracks by Train

By Light Rail L2: Exit at the QVB Stop, proceed north on George Street, and right (east) on Market Street to Hyde Park. Follow the path northeast to the Macquarie Street Entrance and cross Prince Albert Road.

By Train: Take T2, T3, or T8 to James Station and proceed northeast through Hyde Park as above.

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