Exploring the Rocks in Sydney, Australia
The Heritage and History of Sydney
The first white settlement took place in the heart of where Sydney stands now. Although Aboriginal people occupied Australia for thousands of years and lived in harmony with the land, the occupation by the colonists quickly changed the landscape.
The Rocks is an experience of early settlement. With its cobbled streets and mysterious alley ways, it’s a great place to explore and feel the echoes of the past.
The Rocks was an old Penal Settlement
Meandering through the Rocks, there may be glimpses of the ghosts of convicts still on the run as this area was inhabited mainly by convicts in the early penal days when Britain sent its First Fleet of seven hundred and fifty convicts on eleven ships. This was the beginning of eighty years of transportation from Portsmouth to the far land deemed so remote that ‘escape would be impossible”. The prisoners were free to roam the town bounded by the sea on one side and wilderness on the other.
Prisoners did escape, though and when caught were punished with floggings and the wearing of heavy leg irons, and working in road gangs.
Visit The Rocks Discovery Museum in Kendall Lane and learn more of the fascinating history, the admission is free.
The Rocks Farmers Market
The Rocks Farmers Markets brings together a collection of organic and fresh produce direct from the grower.
People who appreciate food will enjoy the opportunity to sample and perhaps purchase some fresh produce to take away and enjoy, create a picnic lunch and head up to Observatory Hill, where the view of the Sydney Harbour will enhance the senses and transform a picnic into a feast. The market is at Jack Munday place on Fridays 10am-3pm and Saturdays 9am -3pm.
Places to Eat and Shop near The Rocks in Sydney
If picnicking is not practical, there are loads of restaurants and cafes to choose from along the waterfront, in alleyways, around markets, in museums, from relaxing with a coffee to eating a three course meal in a five-star restaurant with top-class chefs creating meals to tantalize the taste buds, while soaking up a gorgeous view of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, accentuating the evening sky.
If shopping is on the agenda, then The Rocks is a fabulous place to go. For gifts with a difference of Australian flair, or candles to burn for romantic nights in, hats and smelly things, jewels or that gorgeous dress! There is also the Rocks Market on George Street, which is open every weekend.
Adventurous Fun on Sydney Harbour
For a day of fun, why not climb the Harbour Bridge with Bridge Climb. After being trained with equipment and getting into the required uniform, a professional guide leads the way up the 134 meter climb to the summit of the bridge.
Or alternatively there is another climb up 200 stairs on the inside of the bridge’s pylon. On the way up to the lookout, which is 87 meters above sea level, there are three levels of exhibits displaying the history and construction of the bridge.
While on the harbour, go for a jet cruise on a cruiser “with engines powerful enough to fill a swimming pool in less than 27 seconds”, for the most exhilarating adrenalin rush. Or for a more sedate cruise, hop on the tall ship and relax as the sails billow out as she sails her way around the harbour just as the days of old.
Source
The Rocks Experience,Debra Dawsaon, 2009
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