The Obelisk

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If you haven't had to chase your hat or fix your umbrella running around Newcastle's Obelisk then perhaps it's time to question your existence - or get off your derriere and visit one of Newcastle's most iconic landmarks. Don't be put off by the cool sea breeze that will inevitably turn your Saturday into a bad-hair-day. The view is much too beautiful.


is situated in one of Newcastle's wealthier suburbs, The Hill. The landmark itself is also rich in history, as it marks the spot of Newcastle's first ever windmill which was built to grind flour in the early 1800s. It was demolished, much to the dismay of the shipping industry which used the windmill as a navigational tool, however continued protests from shipping interests were relentless and was born in 1850 to save their souls.

Since then, and its surroundings (including plaques with information about the share of water around The City) have become a popular destination for cheeky locals and wandering tourists. has not gone unscathed all these years might I add - from a firework explosion in 1985 caused by a group of young girls to the 1989 Newcastle earthquake, the landmark has been rebuilt on many occasions. It is still maintained by the Newcastle Council .

Surrounded by illustrious terrace buildings on Ordnance St and Wolfe St, s green pasture is fit for all humans and pets, and at night it lights up in sync with the rest of town. Perfect for laying out a picnic blanket and sharing a glass of wine with the partner, walking the dog, or, for the quirky (my mates), organising a mock wedding. One thing for sure is you will be left with a fresh, breath-taking perspective of Newcastle having witnessed a 360 degree view of the city, the harbour and its world renowned beaches.

Not to detract from the simple yet graceful patch of grass in which itself is situated, but the location is dominant and I suggest you use this to your full advantage when visiting. It would be a great place to start your sight-seeing adventures, or you could use it as an assembly point as a short walk downhill in any direction will take you to another major attraction.

North will take you directly into Newcastle's expanding harbourside Hunter Street Mall. The mall is currently a part of the Renew Newcastle initiative and thus there is a variety of fresh and unique business' currently expanding throughout.

East will allow you the freedom of some of the world's finest beaches as well as the famous bogey hole which was cut into a cliff face by convicts in 1819 by order of Commandant Morrisett for his own personal use. It is still a popular swimming hole to this day and can be jam-packed on a hot day.

South runs into the picturesque, cliffy King Edward Park . Offered to Council in 1865, the park has become host of prestigious events such as the annual Carols by Candlelight. A popular wedding spot equipped with a graceful rotunda and great amounts of open land overlooking the ocean, the area was once the home of an army fortification zone which can still be found on the hilltop.

Finally, West will direct you to the quirky, fashionable latte that is Darby Street . Darby has everything from the latest trends to some of the best coffee in town with an abundance of restaurants, bars and salons to choose from.

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