Lisgar Gardens

Lisgar Gardens, located on a beautiful hillside in the heart of Hornsby, is a well established garden that is known for its range of Camellias and secluded location.

The gardens, covering an area of 2.6 hectares (6.5 acres), are often referred to as "The Secret Gardens" and boasts a variety of native and exotic plant species.

Built on a steep hillside, the garden’s different levels were created by the construction of sandstone block walls. By 1950 the gardens were planted with rhododendrons, azaleas, gardenias and other exotics in harmony with native trees and ferns, highlighting the varieties of camellia.

The gardens now boast more than three hundred specimens of camellias (including over two hundred varieties), mass plantings of annuals in the formal gardens, a covered pavilion for weddings and other celebrations, a shade house containing the fish ponds, three waterfalls, informal lawn areas, picnic tables and a rainforest walk.

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The gardens were originally created by academic horticulturalist Max Cotton, who worked for many years creating garden beds and fish ponds on the steep terrain. Max formed a friendship with Professor Eben Gowrie Waterhouse and the two spent many hours together including indulging their interest in camellias and by the early 1950's, had planted 72 varieties of camellias.

Hornsby Shire Council bought the property in 1967, naming it Lisgar Gardens. The gardens were opened to the public on 21 September, 1968.

Due to restricted parking in Lisgar Road visitors are asked to park in surrounding streets such as William Street. There is no coach access into Lisgar Road.

Bookings for Wedding Ceremonies and Wedding Photos at Lisgar Gardens are open.

Booking for weddings are available to be booked 7 days in advance and must comply with the latest federal and state government regulations and health guidelines.

Lisgar Gardens can be booked for up to three hours for weddings, naming ceremonies, group excursions and professional photography or filming. Phone 9847 6666 for more information.

Please note: This venue is not suitable for holding parties or any form of catering. The maximum number of attendees is subject to NSW health regulations.

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Lisgar Gardens Fees and Charges

Conditions of Hire

The Friends of Lisgar Gardens is a volunteer group which aims to promote, protect and enhance Lisgar Gardens. The friends also help Council by staffing the gardens on weekends, greeting visitors and helping with enquiries.

Each year they host events in the gardens including the Lisgar Live music events and Camellia Gala Day in winter. If you’d like to be involved phone 9847 6666.