There are laneways in Sydney that transport you to a tropical wonderland with their foliage and spring blooms, and others that are an artist’s delight. Whether it’s the sublime smell of jasmine, bougainvillaea and frangipani blossoms or a fascinating art installation, these inner-city utopias have something to delight most of us.
If you want to feel like you need to escape the city for a bit, take a couple of photos or just sit and stare at some greenery or artworks, each of these lanes will delight the explorer in you.
Resident gardening enthusiasts and artists at each of these laneways have taken it upon themselves to transform nondescript paths into leafy, welcoming places to be enjoyed by the whole community
Angel Place
A charming laneway in Sydney’s CBD known for its unique art installation, “Forgotten Songs,” it features suspended birdcages that emit the sounds of extinct native bird species, creating an immersive auditory experience.
Angel Place features a selection of cosy cafes and restaurants – China Lane, Ragazzi and Long Chim, to name just a few – offering an inviting atmosphere for locals and visitors alike. Its historical significance and artistic allure make Angel Place a hidden gem in the heart of Sydney.
Myrtle Street, Chippendale
This inner-city street along (plus some others in the neighbourhood) is the epitome of sustainable footpath gardens where local gardeners grow a whole range of vegetables, leafy greens and herbs.
From fresh papayas, to juice tomatoes to rosemary, pomegranates and curry leaves as well as native herbs and limes, a stunning array of produce grows along the verge gardens.
Hayden Lane, Darlinghurst
This narrow lane off Liverpool Street is a leafy oasis with a seedy past that feels like one has walked into a different world with its own microclimate. An incredible amount of greenery in the lane is flourishing in pots and planter boxes, and climbing up the walls and buildings’ drain pipes.
Leafy laneways don’t get more photogenic than this – it is a charming interlude nestled between a plethora of restaurants, bars and eateries nearby plus it is the perfect spot to enjoy a little gelato from Messina round the corner.
Collins Avenue and Percival Park Laneway, Rose Bay
Tucked away between Rose Bay Beach and New South Head Road is this funky laneway resplendent with colourful murals, lush greenery and cute cafes with outdoor seating.
This is just one example of the brilliant public spaces in Woollahra, which is home to more than 20 pieces of public art.
McElhone Place, Surry Hills
Old sandstone workers’ cottages line a lush green lane that feels like a communal garden come to life. Heritage properties with potted plants lining the stoops, benches to sit and marvel at the foliage plus plenty of fur babies to pet if you’re so inclined.
This is one of Sydney’s OG leafy lanes and a favourite spot for i\Insta-worthy shots. There are two French bakeries within walking distance of this lane, making it the perfect spot to bite into a flaky croissant or a divine pain au chocolat.
Shepard Lane, Darlington
A tiny lane off Abercrombie street in Darlington that is full of potted plants, massive stone planters, creative sculptures, flowing bougainvillaeas, a massive jacaranda tree, monsteras and a lot more. If you’re lucky, a cat or two will give you a little cuddle.
The lane is a wonderful pause between houses, a stone’s throw from the CBD.
If you’re looking to escape the city sights for a bit, these Sydney laneways are light, leafy and the perfect interlude on a sunny day.
