Flowing water is a key feature of the Water Garden
As you wander amidst the hiss and gush of flowing water, there's another sound that dominates the scenery. It's the coo of visitors proclaiming their delight in loud whispers. "Isn't this beautiful!" enthuses a man at my right, his eyes rapturously taking in the garden.
I dare you to visit and disagree.
Constructed on what was once a paddock, the Water Garden opened to the public 7 days a week from September 2014.
Combining water and stone with banks of maples, azaleas and rhododendrons, the six-acre, Japanese inspired water garden is breath-taking. Located at Oberon in the NSW Central Tablelands it's slightly off the radar for most Sydney folk, but worth the visit. Despite being relatively unknown as far as gardens go, this newcomer manages to pack in the crowds.
There are many charming features to enjoy from the red Japanese bridge to the waterfall, a stone bridge, obelisk and a little boat adrift on the pond. In summer the water-lilies are in bloom, while autumn offers the spectacle of the maples at their finest. Spring is possibly the best season to visit offering blooms galore including blue irises, pink azaleas and Japanese inspired flowering trees.
The Water Garden is modelled on the famous water garden at Longstock Park in Hampshire in the UK. It's an extension of Mayfield Garden – a 300 acre private garden – which you can also take a peek into for a further fee if you're lucky enough to be there on one of its open days.
Opening HoursOpen: Mon-Sun 9am – 4.30pm (last entry at 3pm)
Closed: ANZAC Day, Good Friday, Christmas holidays 2015 closure dates to be advised.
Where530 Mayfield Road
Oberon NSW 2787
(Sealed road access via Oberon, Abercrombie Road/Goulburn Road)
Entry Costs $10: adult
$ 5: child 7-16yrs
Free: child 0-6yrs
$ 25: family (2 Adults + 2 Children)
Important tips for visiting the water garden
There are few benches or seating areas. It's almost guaranteed that the handful of benches that exist in the garden will be occupied.
Surprisingly for a garden, it's short on shade – actually, there isn't any. Think sun-block, sun-hat or shade umbrella.
The Water Garden is primarily a display feature garden designed for walking around and viewing. This isn't Centennial Park, so don't bring the soccer ball.
Mobility challenges: the Water Garden has crushed granite paths, stone stairs and low wooden bridges. Disabled facilities are available.
There is an on-site café with an extensive shaded outdoor eating area. Or bring your own food.
While Oberon is a bit of a hike from Sydney, those who like a country drive will enjoy the scenery along the way.
The Japanese bridge.
Lillies and maples
Irises
Water and flowers galore
Azaleas in bloom
