Fitzroy Gardens

At the top of Macleay Street in Potts Point, Fitzroy Gardens wraps a paved plaza and small lawns around the petal-shaped El Alamein Fountain. It is an on-lead stop rather than a long walk, and it slots neatly into a morning lap of the neighbourhood.

Lead rules

The City of Sydney allows dogs in the gardens on a lead and under effective control. The enclosed children's playground is off limits to dogs, so give it a wide berth.

This is not an off-lead area. If your dog needs a run, Embarkation Park on Victoria Street is a signed off-lead lawn open from sunrise to sunset.

The walk

Paved walkways and the plaza circle the fountain, with patches of grass in between. Towering fig trees throw moderate shade over the lawn and benches, which helps on warm afternoons.

There is no dedicated dog bubbler inside the gardens, so bring water for the dog. Bins sit along the perimeter footpaths.

Make a day of it

Cafes with outdoor tables ring the gardens. Melted Monster cafe and Tuyo Potts Point are both close for a coffee with the dog at your feet.

When to go

Parking is metered street parking only and gets scarce during weekend market times, so walk in if you can. The flat paving suits older dogs, and weekday mornings are the calmest time to sit by the fountain.