Callan Park

Callan Park spreads over heritage grounds on Iron Cove between Rozelle and Lilyfield, and its signed zones let dogs run off lead right by the water.

Leads and the off-lead areas

Greater Sydney Parklands manages the park with Inner West Council. Dogs can be off lead from 5am to 10pm in designated zones, including the Central Green, Callan Point Beach and some of the gardens.

Outside those zones they stay on a lead, as they must in areas run by NSW Health. From 10pm to 5am the whole park is on lead.

The walk

Paths mix paved sections with compacted granite gravel, looping past sandstone heritage buildings, mature trees and wide lawns. The foreshore gives long views across Iron Cove.

Taps and bubblers are scattered through the grounds, bins sit along the main tracks, and the tree-lined paths offer plenty of shade.

Pepsi: Callan Point Beach is the off-lead spot for a paddle. Pack a towel for the ride home.

Getting there

Park on the surrounding streets such as Balmain Road, following the signs. Parking on the grass is not allowed.

Make a day of it

Stop for coffee at The Old Rosebud, or finish at The Balmain Hotel.

It suits social dogs with good recall, and weekday mornings are the easiest time to find space on the green.