The sandstone chair was carved specifically to provide Elizabeth Macquarie with a comfortable vantage point while she waited for ships from England.
The surrounding area was formerly known as 'Lady Macquarie's Chair' and formed part of the original Governor’s Domain.
The site provides one of the few vantage points in Sydney where the Opera House and Harbour Bridge can be framed in a single composition without structures obstructing the foreground.
Convict labour was used for the carving in 1810, as part of Governor Macquarie’s broader infrastructure development program in the colony.
The area remains a significant site for viewing the annual Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race start and New Year's Eve fireworks.
Mrs Macquarie's Chair is an exposed sandstone bench hand-carved into the rock face by convicts in 1810. It is located on the tip of the Bennelong Point peninsula, known as Mrs Macquarie's Point, within the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney. The site was commissioned by Governor Lachlan Macquarie for his wife, Elizabeth, who frequented the spot to watch ships arrive from Great Britain. It offers an unobstructed panoramic view encompassing the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The site remains a prominent point on the Farm Cove shoreline. The surrounding area features expansive parkland and walking paths that connect directly to the Sydney Opera House precinct. It is a heritage-listed landmark managed by the Royal Botanic Gardens and Domain Trust. The chair itself sits slightly elevated above the water, providing a direct line of sight down the harbour toward the Heads.
The elevated path just above the chair, looking back toward the Opera House and the city skyline.
Arrive early in the morning to avoid the arrival of large tour groups.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the surrounding paths involve uneven terrain and steep gradients.
Bring sun protection as the site is fully exposed with very little shade.
Attempting to climb or sit directly on the historic sandstone carving, as it is fragile and restricted to preserve the heritage fabric.
