Book one of our scheduled tours to learn about our protected visitor destinations, including their central place in Australia’s First Nations, convict, defence and colonial narratives.
Our program of guided tours caters for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts as well as families and social groups, including Probus groups and historical societies.
Journey to Cockatoo Island’s storied convict and maritime eras – or dare to step into the supernatural realm – with our tour program…
Cost: Varies (From $5) | Duration: Varies (45-120 mins)| When: Varies (Book tickets for scheduled tour, or arrange a private group tour)
The tour program at Cockatoo Island caters for different ages, interests, and personalities – from history buffs and ghost seekers through to families and seniors’ clubs. Our tours are also a great opportunity to discover iconic landmarks, including heritage buildings rarely opened to the general public.
Featuring gun emplacements, tunnels and other military relics dating back to the 1870s, Georges Heights at Headland Park, Mosman once played a crucial role in the defence of Sydney…
Cost: From $7 | Duration: 90 mins | When: 10:45am, first Sunday of every month
During our Tunnels and Gunners Tour, an experienced volunteer guide will lead you through two sets of demilitarised fortifications set within stunning coastal bushland, including tunnels off limits to the general public. The tour concludes at the Headland Park Artist Precinct, which is home to a thriving community of painters, potters, sculptors, and photographers.
Originally built in 1818, Macquarie Lightstation in Vaucluse is the site of Australia’s first lighthouse…
Cost: From $3 | Duration: 20 mins | When: Select Sundays (TBD) | Note: Tickets available on site, online booking encouraged.
During this 20-minute tour, our guide will regale you with Macquarie Lighthouse's storied history. You will ascend 100 steps to the lantern room and, from there, access the balcony for a breathtaking panoramic view of Sydney Harbour and the Pacific Ocean.
Located in Manly at the northern entrance to Sydney Harbour, North Head Sanctuary features a remnant military complex and a historic cemetery set within coastal bushland...
Cost: From $7 | Duration: 90 mins | When: Every Sunday | Online booking encouraged
The Defence of Sydney Tour is an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the men and women who served at North Fort, a former army base that once protected Sydney Harbour. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you will marvel at heritage gun emplacements and descend into the 200-metre-long military tunnel complex. Finally, our guide will demystify an underground bunker once shrouded in secrecy: The Plotting Room.
Cost: From $7 | Duration: 60 mins | Update: Tour available EXCLUSIVELY for private bookings
Established in 1881 for victims of a smallpox epidemic, the Third Quarantine Cemetery at North Head Sanctuary, Manly, is included on Australia’s National Heritage List as a significant example of the nation’s evolving quarantine practices. During this 60-minute tour, a knowledgeable guide will share stories of those who succumbed to the ravages of small pox, the plague and other epidemics. Attendees will also experience the natural beauty of this final resting place, including unspoiled views of Sydney Harbour.
Journey through the history of a heritage gasworks and submarine base that was off-limits to the public for more than 150 years....
Cost: $25 per adult, $15 per child (12 & under), $15 per senior | Duration: 60 mins | When: 10:45am & 12pm, Saturdays | Online bookings essential
Running select Saturdays, the Sub Base Platypus Walking Tour is a 60-minute guided journey through the different layers of history at the site. Ticket holders will learn about the First Nations, industrial and military heritage of this emerging community hub, including remnant buildings from different eras.