Hidden Laneways of Sydney

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'The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new lands but seeing with new eyes.' Marcel Proust.Have you tried looking at Sydney with new eyes lately? I have often strolled through the city and wondered how many little side streets and back alleys lie hidden in the shadows of Sydney's high-rise buildings and bustling streets, waiting to be discovered. Recently, I spent a weekend in the city, and with camera in hand I was determined to take a little advice from Proust and walk this hidden world. The result was four delightful little lanes that revealed something new and surprising.

Abercrombie Lane – peering into this shabby little space between buildings during the day was less than inviting but once the sun comes down it pulses with life. Hidden down Abercrombie Lane and underground is the award winning 1920's style bar Palmer and Co. Step inside and be transported back to the era of flappers and enjoy a signature cocktail.

Angel Place – Containing the City Recital Hall, Angel Place is probably one of the better known laneways of Sydney but have you ever looked up? 'Forgotten Songs' one of the city's permanent artworks, is an amazing canopy of birdcages suspended above Angel Place that resonate with 50 different bird species that were once heard in Sydney before European settlement. The birdcalls change as day turns to night and the names of the bird species that can be heard are etched into the ground below.



Bridge Lane – You can't help but feel the hustle and bustle of yesteryear in the atmosphere of Bridge Lane. Once a thriving commercial hub, Sydney's first lumber yards were on Bridge Lane but by the end of the 19th Century several Tea Merchant Stores and warehouses took over. As you stroll down the lane, look for the old warehouse doorway which is now the 'secret' entrance to the Establishment Hotel. While you are there, pop into the famous Mr. Wong's for a yum cha lunch.


Palings Lane /Ash St – Music lovers may recall the name of WH Paling, a musical entrepreneur who imported and manufactured pianos and rented out rooms in this building to dance and music teachers. The building itself fronts George Street and backs onto Ash Street which used to house the Australia Liberal Party headquarters but is now the romantic location for a delectable French restaurant called Felix. I was lucky enough to be treated to a gorgeous meal here for my birthday and it was well worth it. Pair your meal with a recommended wine from the extensive wine list and you have a perfect meal with the ambiance of a Parisian bistro. The only thing missing was a view of the Eiffel Tower.


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