Double Bay Wharf to Circular Quay

This 7.7km foreshore walk links Double Bay Wharf to Circular Quay, running through Woollahra and City of Sydney council land past Steyne Park, Rushcutters Bay Park, Woolloomooloo, the Domain and the Royal Botanic Garden. The deciding fact: dogs stay on lead for the whole route, and several pockets along the way are off limits entirely.

The walk. About 7.7 km one-way, either direction, moderate grade on predominantly paved paths. Budget 2 to 2.5 hours at an easy pace. Start at Double Bay Ferry Wharf or Circular Quay Wharf, whichever suits your day.

The rules. Woollahra Municipal Council and City of Sydney jointly manage this route, and dogs must be on lead throughout. The safety-critical part: dogs are banned from Double Bay Beach, Blackburn Gardens, and the Murray Rose Pool area near the start, so factor that into your route through Double Bay. Further along, dogs cannot enter the inner Royal Botanic Garden around Mrs Macquarie's Chair, though the garden's perimeter paths allow leashed dogs. Always clean up after your dog, bins are available in most council parks along the way.

Water. Water stations are available in most public parks, including Rushcutters Bay Park. Restrooms are found at Steyne Park, Rushcutters Bay Park, and again near Circular Quay and the Botanic Garden.

Getting there. Start or finish at Double Bay Ferry Wharf or Circular Quay Wharf. The F7 ferry connects the two roughly every 30 to 60 minutes, but dogs must travel in a suitable carrier under Transport NSW rules, which rules it out for most dogs doing this walk. Buses 323, 324 and 325 run along New South Head Road to Edgecliff Station or the city if you need a one-way return option.

Nearby with the dogs. Fuel up before you start at The Filosofy Project in Double Bay, or stay overnight nearby at the pet-friendly InterContinental Sydney Double Bay.

When to go. Early morning is cooler and quieter, especially through the exposed stretches near Woolloomooloo. Good for big runners who want distance with a harbour view, though nervous swimmers can relax, there is no expectation of water time on this one.

Sources

• Walking your dog - Woollahra Council · www.woollahra.nsw.gov.au
• Travelling with animals and pets - Transport NSW · transportnsw.info

Compiled from public sources and verified listings. Always confirm current rules with the venue or council before you travel.