Parks and Gardens for Ceremonies

, 70 Alice Street, Rosehill. Features glorious gardens with grand 19th century carriageway, shady verandahs, lawn areas, paved courtyard and 's oldest European building. Ceremonies are held in the gardens and photos can be taken throughout the gardens and the home. Fees: apply for both ceremonies and photographs. Contact: Historic Houses Trust on 9635 9488.

 Lake Reserve, 28 Bourke Street, . Features lake, picturesque parkland and trees.  Experiment Farm Reserve, 9 Ruse Street, Harris Park. Features one of Australia's oldest cottages and landscaped grounds planted with authentic 19th century plants. A lovely location.  George Kendall Riverside Park, Spurway Street, Ermington. Features open, grassed areas, established trees and views across the to Olympic Park. Fees: no fees are payable for groups of under 50 people. Contact: Parramatta Council on 9806 5140.

 Old Government House, Pitt & Macquarie Streets, Parramatta. Features riverside location, historic buildings and grand driveway. Fees: apply for ceremonies and photographs. Contact: National Trust on 9635 8149.

 Parramatta Park, Pitt & Macquarie Streets, Parramatta. Features the Rumsey with a heritage rose garden, arches and lawn. Also the Governor's Bath House, the Dairy Precinct, Old Government House, the Boer War Memorial, six stunning gatehouses, lawns, established trees and a meandering Parramatta River. Fees: apply for ceremonies and photographs. Contact: Parramatta Park Trust on 8833 5000.

 Hambledon Cottage Reserve, Purchase Street, Parramatta. Features historic cottage, open lawn and established trees. Contact: Parramatta & District Historial Society on 9635 6924.

 Burnside Heritage Centre, 9 Blackwood Place, North Parramatta. Features historic buildings in a garden setting. Available for photos only. Contact: 9768 6866.  Harborne, 21 Boundary Street, Parramatta. Features garden setting and historic buildings. Contact: 9687 8988.

 Wisteria Gardens, off Bridge Road, North Parramatta. Features blossoms, flowers, river and an historic building. Spring only. Contact: Cumberland Hospital on 9840 3000.

 Garden Chapel, Hospital, Blacktown Road, Blacktown. Features chapel seating 25 plus standing room for 20, air conditioning and set next to a rockery with water fountains. Fees: apply. Contact: 9881 8193.

, Knox Road, Doonside. Features three wedding gardens, pavilions and a waterfall.  Alpha Park, Alpha Street, Blacktown. Features large established trees and extensive lawns.  Chifley Park Wedding Garden, Parkside Street, Lalor Park. Features mature trees, gazebo and beds of fragrant flowers. Fees: apply. Contact: on 9839 6000.

, Chisholm & Chiswick Roads, Auburn. Features stunning speciality gardens - traditional Japanese Gardens, Sunken Rose Garden, Zen Garden, Scented Garden and a large Wedding Pavilion. Fees: apply for ceremonies and photographs. Contact: Auburn City Council on 9735 1222.

 Central Gardens , Merrylands Road, Merrylands West. Features sparkling cascades and large ornamental lakes with waterfalls. Fees: apply for ceremonies. Contact: Holroyd City Council on 9840 9840.

 Rouse Hill Estate, Guntawong Road, Rouse Hill. Features historic garden remnants, Georgian sandstone house, original farm buildings, summer house, cottage and rusting 1940's Humber Super Snipe cars. Fees: are payable. Contact: Historic Houses Trust on 9232 3488.

 Cumberland State , 95 Castle Hill Road, West Pennant Hills. Features native tree arboretum and sensory bushwalks. Contact: 9872 0107.  Alfred Henry Whaling Memorial Reserve, Roxborough Park Road, Baulkham Hills. Features beautiful rose gardens and a pavilion.  Castle Hill Park, Old Northern Road, Castle Hill. Features parkland areas. Contact: Baulkhams Hills Council on 9843 0555.

 Blues Point Reserve, Blues Point Road, McMahons Point. Features amazing views of the city and the Harbour Bridge. A very popular ceremony and photo site, especially for night photos with a city backdrop.  Cremorne Reserve, Milson Road, Cremorne. Features city and harbour views, two jetties, and a lighthouse at Robertsons Point.  Watt Park, Lavender Crescent, McMahons Point. Features a lovely, secluded location with established jacaranda and pine trees and a railway tunnel leading to the foreshore walk to Kirribilli. Fees: apply for ceremonies at a per person rate, plus insurance. There is no charge for photographs. Contact: on 9936 8100.

 Luna Park Boardwalk, 1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point. If you are looking for a harbourside location there is the 15 metre deep boardwalk around Luna Park at Milsons Point. Located almost beneath the Harbour Bridge it has spectacular views of the Opera House, the city, Lavender Bay and Balmain and is available for photographs or ceremonies of less than 60 guests. It is worth noting that it is a very busy area and you cannot have exclusive use of the boardwalk, however there is no charge or time limit.

 Ashton Park, Bradley's Head Road, Mosman. Features a splendid amphitheatre with stunning views of , the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. An extremely popular site for ceremonies and for photos. Fees: apply for ceremonies. Contact: Sydney Harbour National Park on 9247 5033.

 Balmoral Foreshore Reserve and Beach, Edwards Bay Road, Balmoral. Features a pretty harbour beach-side location with grassy lawns, established trees, a rotunda and a sandy beach. Balmoral is the area's most popular wedding location.  Rocky Point Island, Balmoral Beach, corner of The Esplanade and Mandalong Road, Balmoral. Features a small island with rocky outcrops accessed by bridge from the beach.  Clifton Gardens Reserve, Morella Road, Mosman. Features grassy areas with plenty of trees, a harbourside location, and a wharf.  Chinaman?s Beach, McLean Crescent, Mosman. Features a large, flat, grassy park with established trees which fronts onto a lovely white, sandy beach. A very popular ceremony location.  Parriwi Lighthouse, Parriwi Road, Mosman. Features a bushland reserve with lovely views of . Fees: apply for cermonies for a two hour booking, with photographs free. Contact: on 9978 4000.

 Manns Point, Prospect Street, Greenwich. Features panoramic views of Sydney Harbour and the Parramatta River.  Aquatic Park, Stuart Street, Longueville. Features a riverside location with a wharf. A popular ceremony spot.  Longueville Park, Stuart Street, Longeville. Features a waterfront park nestled amongst established trees with views to the city. Another very popular site for ceremonies.  Tambourine Bay Reserve, Tambourine Bay Road, Riverview. Features a pretty foreshore park with a gently sloping grassed area. Contact: Council on 9911 3555.

 Carisbrook, 334 Burns Bay Road, Lane Cove. Features a historic building with formal, landscaped gardens fronting Burns Bay. Carisbrook is available for ceremonies and photographs. Fees: apply. Contact: 9428 1364.

o Royal Botanic Gardens, Mrs Macquaries Road, Sydney. Features a large variety of sites for both small and large weddings and is easily Sydney's most popular outdoor wedding location. There are speciality gardens such as the Greenway, Herb, Succulent and Oriental Gardens, expansive lawns with spectacular city and harbour views. For cover you can book the Rose Garden and Pavilion, Palm House, Maiden Pavilion, Vista Pavilion and Lion Gate Lodge Awning and Garden. Fees: Wedding Ceremony site fees vary according to the area and number of guests. Wedding photography permit is $220.00 (Midweek) and $242.00 (Weekend). Contact: 9231 8172 or [email protected] .

o Dickson Road Reserve, Hickson Road, The Rocks. Features a lovely park with palm and fig trees with unrestricted views of the harbour, Harbour Bridge and Opera House. This is an extremely popular location for ceremonies and photos.

o Dawes Point Park, Hickson Road, The Rocks. Features a picturesque park under the Harbour Bridge with views of the Opera House and Luna Park. A very popular photo location site, especially at night. o & Palm Grove, . Features harbourside parks with magical views of the city?s lights at night. Fees: are payable for ceremonies. Contact: Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority on 9240 8500. o Fort Denison, Sydney Harbour. Features two special ceremony sites. The Marquee - a clear marquee on the forecourt with unobstructed views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge with a capacity up to 140 guests. The Tea Room - an intimate heritage sandstone building with windows looking out to the Opera House and Harbour Bridge for up to 20 guests. o Clark Island, Sydney Harbour. Small, harbour island with stunning views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Fees: are payable for ceremonies and photographs. Contact: National Parks & Wildlife Service on 9247 5033. o Observatory Hill, The Rocks. Features a grassy, sloping park with spectacular views of Harbour Bridge, Luna Park, Pyrmont and Balmain and has a large rotunda which is ideal for shelter in case of wet weather. o Hyde Park, Elizabeth Street, Sydney. Features beautiful arches, fountains, avenues of trees, fairylights at night and overlooks St Marys Cathedral. o Clyne Reserve, Merriman Street, Millers Point. Features a landscaped native garden park with water views to Balmain. Fees: apply for ceremonies. Contact: Sydney City Council on 9246 7805. o Cook and Phillip Park, William Street, Sydney. Features a very quiet area with fountains and landscaped gardens. Fees: are payable for both ceremonies and photography. Contact: 9265 9555. o Chinese Garden of Friendship, Darling Harbour. Features special ceremony sites include the Tea House Pavilion, the Water Pavilion and the Boat Pavilion. There are also many lovely backdrops for photographs. Fees: apply for ceremonies depending on the number of guests and also apply for photographs. Contact: 9240 8888. o The Quadrangle at Sydney University, , Sydney. Features large, flat lawn area surrounded by historic buildings. Fees: exclusive use for groups of up to 200 is $1,000 per for two hours. Non-exclusive use for groups of up to ten start at $220 per hour, with a maximum of four weddings at any one time. Contact: Facilities Management Office on 9351 2952.

o Macquarie Street, Sydney. Features historic buildings for striking backdrops for photographs - Hyde Park Barracks, Mint Building, Government House, Parliament House, State Library of NSW, St James Church, Sydney Conservatorium of Music, Sydney Hospital and the Treasury Building.

o Opera House Broadwalks and Forecourt, Macquarie Street, Sydney. Features dramatic views of the Harbour Bridge, the harbour, Luna Park and Kirribilli on the Broadwalks, and the Forecourt is the place for photos on the steps with the Opera House in the background. Contact: 9251 3943.

 Hunter Valley Gardens - Broke Rd Pokolbin. Features 10 themed award winning gardens on 60 acres in the heart of the Hunter Valley. The gardens has its own stunning chapel and reception facilites. Contact Hunter Valley Gardens on 4998 4000 or visit www.hvg.com.au

Dungog

 Tucker Park - Patterson. Features riverside setting, mature trees and open grassy areas. A picturesque spot on the bend of the river.  Frank Robinson Park - Dungog. Features riverside setting, stands of mature trees, grassy areas and an old timber bridge.

Bookings are taken and there is no fee payable. Contact Dungog Shire Council on 4992 1224 for further information.

Gloucester

 Gloucester Memorial Park - Hume Steet, Gloucester. Features fragrant rose gardens, grassy lawns and stands of trees. A beautiful garden in the centre of Gloucester.  Riverside Walk, Gloucester District Park - Boundary Street, Gloucester. Features river setting with groves of river she-oaks, natural setting and large grassy areas.  King George V Park - Ravenshaw Street, Gloucester. Features river she-oaks overlooking .

Bookings are recommended and there is no fee payable. Contact Council on 6558 1601 for further information.

Scone

 Elizabeth Park - New England Highway, Scone. Pretty gardens featuring native trees, colourful flowerbeds, mare and foul statute and historic fountains.  Rotary Park - New England Highway, Scone. Features trees, open lawns and an historic fountain.

Bookings required and no fees are payable. Contact Council's Technical Service Department on 6540 1100 for further information.

Singleton

 Burdekin Park - Singleton. Features massed flowerbeds in Spring and Autumn, striking Autumn display, historic garden benches and gas lamps, restored horse fountain. It is a very old park with many old trees and is very popular for wedding ceremonies and photographs. There is a music shell which can be used for ceremonies in rainy weather. Bookings are required and an insurance fee is payable.

Contact Singleton Shire Council's Operations Department on 6578 7290 for further information. Botanic Gardens

Pacific Highway, Heatherbrae, Raymond Terrace. Phone: 4987 1655

Not far from Port Stephens is the spectacular Hunter Region Botanic Gardens which has a large collection of Australian flora, many of which are rare or endangered, in a natural bushland setting.

These peaceful gardens offer four settings for outdoor wedding ceremonies or wedding photographs.

 Rotunda on the Lawn - a large, open, flat area with a classic Victorian style Rotunda.  Bush Chapel - a natural grove surrounded by bush and a water feature. Entry is though a rustic timber arch and there are eight wooden pews for guests. The Chapel can be decorated with red carpet, topiary trees, flowers and ribbon etc.  Sundial Pond - a lovely lily pond surrounded by lawn, paved areas and sculptures.  Waterfall - in a peaceful setting, the pond and waterfall display the Garden's native Lord Howe Island plants. For intimate ceremonies.

For a two hour booking the Garden charges - $225 for the Bush Chapel; $250 for the Rotunda and Volunteer Pavillion and $150 for the Camillia Lawn, Sundial Pond, Lord Howe Island Waterfall. An hourly rate of $55 is payable if the booking is for more than two hours and photos only are $50.

The southern suburbs of Sydney have many parks which enjoy ocean and river views, providing lovely, informal sites for outdoor wedding ceremonies and spectacular photos.

 Sans Souci Park, Rocky Point Road, Sans Souci. Features a large foreshore area on the .  , Carwar Avenue, Carrs Park. Features a lush, green park with pretty foreshore areas.  Carss Heritage Cottage, overlooking Kogarah Bay with views of Sans Souci.  Douglas D Cross Gardens, Oatley Avenue, Oatley. Features a cottage style garden with a water feature.  Oatley Memorial Gardens, Oatley Parade, Oatley. Features a cottage style garden with water fountain. Fees: are payable for both ceremonies and photographs. Contact: Kogarah Council on 9330 9451.  Woodville Park, Hudson Street, Hurstville. Features a flat, grassy park with open areas, large shady trees and a small rotunda.  Oatley Park, Dame Mary Gilmore Drive, Oatley. Features native trees, and flowers, grassy areas, scenic outlooks and beautiful river beaches. The Castle can be hired for ceremonies and has views across Jewfish Bay and the Georges River.  Memorial Park, Boundary Road, Mortdale. Features a flat, open, grassy park with large trees and a small rotunda. Fees: are payable. Contact: Hurstville Council on 9330 6222.

 Rockdale Park, Ador and Bryant Streets, Rockdale. Features three special wedding locations ? the lovely Gazebo, the Red Bridge or the Waterfall. It is very popular for wedding ceremonies and photographs.  Arncliffe Park, Mitchell Street, Arncliffe. Features a small bandstand and an avenue of trees planted at the beginning of the 20th century.  Seaforth Park, Beaconsfield Street, Bexley. Features a large, open area.  Cook Park, , Kyeemagh to The Grand Parade, Dolls Point. Features a beachside location. Fees: are payable. Contact: are payable. Rockdale Council on 9562 1666.

 Lydham Hall, 18 Lydham Avenue, Bexley. Features lovely gardens and lawns, historic building and an outlook to . It is one of the oldest buildings in the area and is very popular for ceremonies and photographs. Fees: are payable for ceremonies and photographs. Contact: 9587 8307.

 EG Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens, President Avenue & Kareena Road, Caringbah. Features four special wedding areas - Gazebo, Rose Garden, Duck Ponds and The Garden. Fees: are payable and depend on the number of guests and whether a photography session is included. Contact: Sutherland Council on 9710 0333.

 Joseph Banks Native Plants Reserve, Manooka Place, Kareela. Features native, landscaped gardens, water views and a paved wedding area amongst the ponds, waterfalls and bridges. Fees: depend on the number of guests and whether a photography session is included. Contact: Sutherland Council on 9710 0333.  Darook Park, Darook Park Road & Stacey Street, Cronulla. Features sandy beaches overlooking Gunnamatta Bay.  Lilli Pilli Point Reserve, Lilli Pilli Point Road, Lilli Pilli. Features grassy areas, shady trees and access to the .  Bass and Flinders Point, Gowrie Street, Cronulla. Features lookout with stunning views across to Bundeena and the .  Salmon Haul Reserve, Gowrie Street, Cronulla. Features views over Port Hacking to Bundeena and the Royal National Park.  Como Pleasure Grounds, Cremona Road, Como. Features a pretty park on the banks of the Georges River.  Shelly Park, Ewos Parade, Cronulla. Features a beachside location with stunning ocean views. Fees: are only payable if there are more than 100 guests. Contact: Sutherland Council on 9710 0333.

 Sutherland Council?s sandy beaches are also available for wedding ceremonies and photographs. Fees:a small booking fee is payable for ceremonies. Contact: Sutherland Council on 9527 9441.

 Hazelhurst Regional Gallery, 782 Kingsway, Gymea. Features landscaped gardens. Fees: are payable and depend on the size of the wedding or whether the booking is for photos only. Contact: 8536 5700.

 Royal National Park, Farnell Road, Audley. Features charming Audley Dance Hall which is available for indoor ceremonies. It is in a beautiful location and surrounded by a large verandah. Fees: are payable and the first 50 cars are free. Contact: National Parks & Wildlife Service on 9542 0648.

Sydney's has many spectacular parks suitable for outdoor wedding ceremonies and photos. Many parks have established, formal gardens with large trees, others line the foreshore of the Parramatta River providing water and harbour views. Whatever your style, you will find the perfect outdoor venue for your ceremony or photos.

 Ashfield Park, Parramatta Road, Ashfield. Features a large park with beautiful gardens, open areas, lots of trees and a rotunda.  Yeo Park, Victoria Street, Ashfield. Features a large rotunda with a bridge across a moat.  Allman Park, Victoria Street, Ashfield. Features pretty flower gardens.  Robson Park, Dobroyd Parade, Haberfield. Features a pretty park with flower gardens by the River. Fees: a small fee is payable for wedding groups over 30 people. Contact: Ashfield Council on 9716 1800.

 Burwood Park, Burwood Road, Burwood. Features large open areas, established trees formal gardens, an ornamental pond and waterfalls. A popular park for ceremonies and photographs.  King Edward Reserve, King Edward Street, Croydon. Features a small, grassy park.  Mills Crescent Reserve, Mills Crescent, Burwood. Features a small island in the middle of the park, lined with palm trees. Fees: are payable for ceremonies. Contact: Burwood Council on 9911 9911.

 Cabarita Park, Cabarita Road, Cabarita. Features a beautiful, large rotunda for up to 80 people which can be hired exclusively, lovely gardens and water views. This is the area's most popular wedding park.  Prince Edward Park, Phillip Street, Cabarita. Features a small rotunda which can be hired exclusively, water views and formal gardens. This is also very popular for ceremonies.  Quarantine Reserve, Spring Street, Abbotsford. Features a waterfront park overlooking .  Dunlop Reserve, Birkenhead Point, Drummoyne. Features a grassy area on the waterfront with lovely harbour views.  Blackwall Point Reserve, Bortfield Drive, Chiswick. Features a Parramatta Riverside location looking towards the .  Drummoyne Wharf, Wolsley Street, Drummoyne. Features city and harbour views for photographs. Fees: are payable on an hourly basis. Contact: Council on 9911 6555.

, Iron Cove Bay, off Birkenhead Point, Drummoyne. Features a lovely island with a flat grassy area, summer houses, an historic Colonial hall and palm trees. Fees: are payable. Contact: NSW National Parks & Wildlife Service on 9247 5033.

 Elkington Park, Glassop Street, Balmain. Features a large rotunda, open grassed areas, established trees, and a lovely outlook across the water. A popular ceremony site.  Thornton Park, , Balmain. Features a small grassy area on the harbour, with formal gardens, stunning views of the city, Luna Park and the Harbour Bridge and boat access from the adjacent Darling Street Wharf.  Illoura Reserve, Weston Street, East Balmain. Features a lovely harbourside location.  Leichhardt Park, Mary Street, Leichhardt. Features a large, grassy park overlooking Iron Cove.  Hinsby Park, Piper Streets, Annandale. Features a lovely flat park with formal gardens. Fees: a small charge for ceremonies and photographs are free. Contact: Leichhardt Council on 9367 9222.

 Enmore Park, Black Street, Marrickville. Features a large, formal park with shady trees.  , Station Street, Petersham. Features a lovely rotunda in a large, pretty park. Fees: no fees are payable. Contact: on 9335 2222.

 Strathfield Park, Homebush & Chalmers Road, Strathfield. Features a pavilion suitable for ceremonies, open grassed areas, formal gardens and meandering paths. Fees: are payable. Contact: Strathfield Council on 9748 9901.

 Beaman Park, Wardell & Riverview Roads, Earlwood. Features a large open, grassy area fronting a lake with an avenue of large, established trees.  Rudd Park, Omaha Street & Varidel Avenue, Belfield. Features a large, grassy area with tree-studded verges. Fees: are payable for ceremonies. Contact: Canterbury Council on 9789 9300.

The area of Sydney is world famous for its spectacular beaches, dramatic headlands and pretty parks, many of which are available for ceremonies and photographs.

, Bower Street, Manly. Features a lovely beach with sparkling water, surrounded by large, shady trees. This is the area?s most popular wedding location.  Little Manly Point, Stuart Street, Manly. Features a stunning harbourside location overlooking Little , open areas and shady trees.  Clontarf Reserve, Sandy Bay Road, Clontarf. Features a gazebo, large flat grassy areas, sandy beach and large shady trees.  North Harbour Reserve, Condamine Street, Balgowlah. Features a flat, grassed park alongside the harbour.  Lagoon Reserve, Road, Queenscliff.  Ivanhoe Park, Sydney Road, Manly. Fees: for ceremonies apply and depend on amount of guests and whether park is hired exclusively or not. Contact: on 9976 1540.

 Collins Beach, Collins Beach Road, Manly. Features a pretty, secluded beach surrounded by bushland. A popular ceremony location.  Arabanoo Lookout, off Dobroyd Scenic Drive, Manly. Features a picturesque location with magnificent views over Manly.  North Head, Scenic Drive, Manly. Features dramatic ocean views and harbour views looking towards the city. Fees: apply for ceremonies and bookings are not for exclusive use. Contact: Sydney Harbour National Park on 9247 5033.

 Stony Range Reserve, 369 , . Features a wedding platform set in a rainforest and waterfall. The small clubroom is available as a wet weather venue.  Long Reef Headland & Lower Long Reef Headland, Anzac Avenue, Collaroy. Features a lovely stone amphitheatre for ceremonies, stunning coastal views and a grassed area. A very popular ceremony location.  Fox Park, Beach Road & Florence Avenue, Fisherman?s Beach. Features a lovely reserve on the ocean. Ideal for a wedding on the sand.  Stanley & Florence Twight Reserve, Beach Road, Collaroy. Features a small reserve with spectacular views.  Ocean Grove Reserve, Ocean Grove & Seaview Parade, Collaroy. Features a quiet, small reserve facing the ocean.  Freshwater View Reserve, 21 Pavilion Street, Queenscliff. Features a pretty stone wall with an archway and spectacular views over Freshwater Beach and the ocean.  McKillop Park, Lumsdaine Drive, Harboard. Features a small open area surrounded by a lovely stone wall and stunning coastal views.  The Quarry, Pacific Parade, Dee Why. Features a small reserve with views along the coast to the north.  Edgar Gornell Wildflower Garden, Edgecliff Boulevard, Collaroy Plateau. Features stunning coastal views.  Oxford Falls Peace Park, Wakehurst Parkway & Dreadnought Road, Oxford Falls. Features landscaped gardens with flat, grassy areas and an historic schoolroom which is available for an indoor ceremony. Note: ceremonies can be held, and photographs taken, on any of the area?s beautiful beaches. Fees: a small fee is payable for ceremonies and photographs are free. Contact: on 9942 2545.

 Governor Phillip Lookout, Warringah Road, Beacon Hill. Features spectacular coastal views. Contact: 9982 2997.

 Lucinda Park, Nabilla Road, Palm Beach. Features a peaceful setting with beautiful views across Pittwater to Great Mackerel Beach and the Ku-ring-gai National Park.  Governor Phllip Park, off Beach Road, Palm Beach. Features a large, open grassy area facing onto Palm Beach. Very popular for ceremonies.  Bible Garden, Mitchell Road, Palm Beach. Features lawn terraces, garden beds, ornamental pond and seating overlooking Palm Beach and Pittwater towards Barrenjoey Headland.  Malo Reserve, Malo Road, Whale Beach. Features a lovely headland reserve wih an open lawn area and magnificent views over Whale Beach. Another very popular ceremony location.  Bilgola Headland, The Serpentine, Bilgola Beach. Features amazing views, ideal for intimate ceremonies.  McCarrs Creek Reserve, McCarrs Creek Road, Church Point. Features a large, flat area and tranquil water views.  Rowland Reserve, Pittwater Road, Bayview. Features a large, open grassed area with a boat launching area.  Mona Vale Headland Reserve, off Hillcrest Avenue, Mona Vale. Features magnificent views of the ocean and surrounding beaches.  Turimetta Headland, Warriewood. Features a large reserve with views over Turimetta and Mona Vale Beaches.  Bilarong Reserve, Wakehurst Parkway, North . Features a lovely lakeside reserve on the foreshore of the Narrabeen lagoon. Fees: are payable for ceremony bookings. Contact: on 9970 1111.

 Glenleigh Estate, Mulgoa Road, Regentville. Features a private riverside setting on 100 acres, formal rose gardens, hedges, deciduous trees, historic mansion and views towards the Blue Mountains. Fees: apply for ceremonies and photographs. Contact: 4733 1901.  Chapel Hill, 36 Berambing Cres, Berambing. Features a non-denominational chapel in an Australian country style with beautiful stained glass windows. Set in spectacular seasonal gardens, the grounds make a beautiful backdrop for photographs. Fees: apply. Contact: 4567 2156.

 Loxley on Bellbird Hill, 993 Bells Line of Road, Kurrajong Hills. Features established gardens with peaceful ponds, water lilies, mature trees and expansive views. Fees: apply. Contact: 4567 7711.

 Mt Tomah Botanic Gardens, Bells Line of Road, Mount Tomah. Features 28 hectares of cool climate landscaped gardens. Fees: apply for ceremonies and photos. Contact: Visitor Centre on 4567 2154.

 Fernbrook Garden, 2 Queen Street, Kurrajong Heights. Features woodland gardens, winding pathways, gracious trees, interesting colours and textures, rainforest with creek, a lake and an old stone weir. Fees: apply for ceremonies and photographs. Contact: 4567 7330.

 Weir Reserve Gazebo, Bruce Neale Drive, Penrith. Features two wedding sites including a beautiful gazebo sited on overlooking the weir. A very popular ceremony and photo location.  Tench Reserve, Tench Avenue, Penrith. Features riverbank site with views across to the Blue Mountains. It is suitable for a large wedding ceremony and is also a very popular photo site.  Victoria Park, , St Marys. Features an old fashioned bandstand and beautiful gardens.  South Creek Park, Charles Hackett Drive, St Marys. Features historic wool wagon, bushland setting with well established trees.  Woodriff Gardens, Castlereagh Road, Penrith. Features beautiful white rose gardens and ornate walls.  Regatta Park, River Road, Emu Plains. Features many jacaranda and other established trees. Fees: apply for ceremony bookings. Contact: Penrith City Council on 4732 7559.  McQuade Park, Richmond & George Streets, Windsor. Features lake, unusual island feature, pretty surrounding parkland with flat grassy areas and tall established trees.  Macquarie Park, Bridge Street, Windsor. Features riverside setting, views of St Matthews Church and spectacular jacarandas.  Richmond Park, , Richmond. Features magnificent gardens and historic buildings. Fees: a small administrative fee is charged. Contact: Hawkesbury City Council on 4560 4528.

 Crebra and Fibrosa Pavilions, Rouse Hill Regional Park, Windsor Road, Rouse Hill. Features large pavilions with power set in a parkland location. Fees: apply for ceremony bookings. Contact: National Parks & Wildlife Service on 4572 3100.

 Sydney International Regatta Centre, Gate 3, Castlereagh Road, Upper Castlereagh. Features a number of great locations of which the lakeside is the most popular. There are also views to the Blue Mountains and large, open grassy areas. Fees: apply for both ceremonies and photographs. Contact: 4730 0000.

 Lewers Bequest and Penrith Regional Art Gallery, 86 River Road, Emu Plains. Features historic house with informal native and exotic gardens, courtyards and sunken pools, succulent and water gardens, copper sculpture fountains and sculptures. Fees: apply for bookings for ceremonies and photographs. Contact: 4735 1100.

 Mamre Homestead, Lot 1, Mamre Road, St Marys. Features established gardens, Georgian buildings and a country atmosphere. Fees: apply for ceremonies and photographs. Contact: 9670 6178.

 McKell Park, Lindsay Avenue, Darling Point. Features spectacular harbour views  Other interesting locations: Yarranabbe Park, Yarranabbe Road, Darling Point; Bellevue Park, Birriga Road, Bellevue Hill; Chiswick Gardens, Ocean Street, Woollhara. Fees: apply and depend on the number of wedding party and guests. Contact: Woollhara Council on 9391 7000.

 McElhone Reserve, Billard Avenue, Elizabeth Bay. Features a pretty park with spectacular harbour views.  Rushcutters Bay Park, Waratah Avenue, Rushcutters Bay. Features a large, flat grassy park overlooking the marinas with lovely harbour views.  Victoria Park, Parramatta Road, Chippendale. Features flower beds, fountain, bridge and old sandstone cottage. Available for photos only. Fees: are payable. Contact: Council on 9246 7805.

 Neilson Park, Vaucluse Road, Vaucluse. Features Bottle & Glass Point which is a flat area, with magnificent views.  Green Point Reserve, Pacific Street, Watsons Bay. Features harbour views.  South Head, Cliff Street, Watsons Bay. Features a lovely coastal reserve on the headland that forms the southern entrance to Sydney Harbour. Fees: apply for ceremony bookings. Contact: National Parks & Wildlife Service on 9247 5033.

 Marks Park, off Fletcher Street, Tamarama. Features spectacular ocean views.  , Boundary Street, Bronte. Features a large, flat grassy area in front of the beach.  Ray O'Keefe Reserve, Ramsgate Avenue, Bondi. Features great ocean views. Fees: are payable and are dependent on the number of guests. Contact: Waverly Council on 9369 8030.

 Grant Reserve, Neptune Street, Coogee. Features an English-style village green overlooking the ocean with an old fashioned bandstand.  Dunningham Reserve, Beach Street, Coogee. Features a grassy area overlooking the ocean and coastline and the 1920s entry portico to the now demolished Giles Baths.  Clovelly Beach Headland, Donnellan Circuit, Clovelly. Features fantastic ocean views.  Byrne Reserve, Marine Parade, Maroubra. Features a beachside location fronting onto Maroubra beach.  Yarra Bays Bicentennial Park, Kooringai Avenue, La Perouse. Features a pretty park overlooking Botany Bay. Fees: are payable for ceremonies. Contact: Randwick Council on 9399 0999.

 Bare Island, Anzac Parade, La Perouse. Features a wooden footbridge and historic buildings, on an island in Botany Bay.  and Cable Station Lawn, Anzac Parade, La Perouse. Features open lawn overlooking Botany Bay with an historic building. Contact: National Parks & Wildlife Service on 9668 9111.  , Lang Road, Moore Park. Features formal Rose Garden and Garden, ponds, open grassy areas and large shady trees. Fees: apply for ceremonies, no fees payable for photographs. Contact: 9339 6699.

 Mascot Memorial Park, Coward & Botany Roads, Mascot. Features newly planted gardens, pretty formal flower displays and a rotunda.  Sir Joseph Banks Pleasure Gardens and Foreshore Reserve, Fremlin Street, Botany. Features waterviews and a pergola.  Gaiarine Gardens, Banksia & Ocean Streets, Pagewood. Features lovely gardens with open areas. Fees: are payable. Contact: Botany Council on 9336 3521.

 Nurses War Memorial Chapel, Pine Avenue, Little Bay. Features a cliff top location, it is a timber chapel with stunning stained glass windows from which you can see the superb ocean views. Fees: apply for ceremonies. Contact: Trained Nurses Association on 0447 614 137 or email [email protected]

 Elizabeth Bay House, 7 Onslow Avenue, Elizabeth Bay. Features a magnificent historic house in a lovely setting overlooking Sydney Harbour. The Hall and Salon can be hired for ceremonies and the Dining Room and Cellar for photographs. The Salon has a stunning domed ceiling and a graceful cantilevered staircase, with a capacity for 100 guests. The Dining Room has an original fireplace, high ceilings and adjoins a sandstone verandah for Harbour views. The Cellar has vaulted and beamed ceilings and sandstone walls and floors. Fees: are payable for both ceremony and photography bookings. Contact: Historic Houses Trust on 8239 2288.

 Vaucluse House, Wentworth Road, Vaucluse. Features Sydney's only surviving 19th harbourside estate. For ceremonies, the Lone Pine Lawn is a large, grassy expanse with established trees. Highlights include the Pleasure Garden, harbour views, sweeping carriageway, art deco Tearooms and the peaceful atmosphere. Fees: payable for both ceremony and photography bookings. Contact: Historic Houses Trust on 8239 2288.  Wiley Park, King Georges and Canterbury Roads, Lakemba. Features a large open area, a lake, ponds, gardens and shady trees. Popular for both ceremonies and photographs. Fees: are payable for ceremonies. Contact: Canterbury Council on 9789 9300.

City Gardens, Ross and Restwell Streets, Bankstown. Features botanic gardens, formal gardens and a gazebo which is very popular for cermonies.  Lake Gillawarna in Mirambeena Regional Park, , Lansdowne. Features man-made lakes, natural bushland, river foreshore. Very popular for both ceremonies and photographs.  Shortland Brush in Mirambeena Regional Park, Henry Lawson Drive, . Features artificial lake with an island which makes a lovely backdrop for ceremonies and photos.  Alice Park, Reynolds Avenue, Bankstown. Features landscaped gardens and seating.  RM Campbell Reserve, Sir Joseph Banks Street, Bankstown. Features landscaped gardens and seating.  Maluga Park, Gascoigne Road & Rodd Street, . Features a duck pond, lakes and landscaped gardens.  East Hills Park, Henry Lawson Drive, East Hills. Features river access and a wharf.  Monash Reserve, Henry Lawson Drive, East Hills. Features river foreshores.  Garrison Park, Beatty Parade, Georges Hall. Features open areas, walks and foreshore views.  Greenacre Heights Reserve, Greenacre Road, Greenacre. Features landscaped gardens and seating.  Northcote Reserve, Waterloo & Northcote Roads, Greenacre. Features landscaped gardens and seats.  Lambeth Street Reserve, Henry Lawson Drive & Lambeth Street, . Features open areas and river foreshores.  Gazzard Park, Cooper Road, Yagoona. Features a large grassy area and shelter. Fees: apply for ceremonies with no charges for photographs. Contact: Bankstown City Council on 9707 9699.

 Georges River National Park, Henry Lawson Drive, Revesby. Features a pretty riverside location. Contact: National Parks & Wildlife Service on 9542 0648.

 Bigge Park, 124 Bigge Street, Liverpool. Features open grassy areas, and a gazebo.  Lakeside Park, Castle Rock Court, Wattle Grove. Features a pretty park with landscaped gardens, a lake and gazebo which is very popular for photographs.  Chipping Norton Lakes, Homestead Avenue, Chipping Norton. Features a beautiful lakeside setting amongst natural bushland. Most popular locations are Angle Park, Grand Flaneur Beach, Homestead Park, Haigh Park and Black Muscat Park.  Voyager Park, Sirius Road, Voyager Point. Features landscaped Australian gardens and a boardwalk leading to a wetland lake.  Clinches Pond Reserve, Heathcoate Road, Moorebank. Features ponds and peaceful areas. Fees: a small fee is payable for both ceremonies and photographs. Contact: Liverpool City Council on 1300 362 170.

 Heritage Rose Garden, Vine Street, Fairfield. Features lovely spring and summer time floral displays.  Cabravale Park, Railway Parade, Cabramatta. Features a lovely gazebo. Fees: no fees are payable for either ceremonies or photographs. Contact: on 9725 0222.

 Fairfield City Museum, , Smithfield. Features heritage buildings, historic village and landscaped gardens. Very popular location for photographs. Fees: are payable on an hourly basis. Contact: 9609 3993.

 Lisgar Gardens, Lisgar Road, Hornsby. Features a large terraced garden with established rhododendrons, azaleas and gardenias, large grassy areas, waterfalls, rainforst and covered pavilion. A popular location for both ceremonies and photographs.  , Arcadia Road, Galston. Features a large park with open areas, historic building, lake with bridge, Gardens of Many Nations including Chinese, Japanese, Australian, African and North American. Another location which is popular for both ceremonies and photos.  Pennant Hills Park, Britannia Street, Pennant Hills. Features tall open of gum trees and turpentines, blackbutts and bloodwoods, secluded spots and city views. Fees: are payable for ceremonies and photography. Contact: Hornsby Council on 9847 6791.

 Lilian Fraser Garden, Bellamy & Laurence Streets, Pennant Hills. Features a woodland garden with magnolias, camellias, dogwoods and jacaranda. Seasonal spring gardens of bulbs and annuals and magnificent autumn displays. Fees: apply. Contact: 9484 1966.

 Wahroonga Park, Coonanbarra Road, Wahroonga. Features a rotunda for ceremonies, flat grassy areas, a rose garden and large shady trees.  Swain Gardens, 77 Stanhope Road, Killara. Features a small gazebo and flat lawn area for ceremonies and stunning formal gardens for photographs.  Echo Point Park, Normac Road, Roseville Chase. Features an elevated grassy park overlooking Middle Harbour. Fees: are payable for ceremonies. Contact: Ku-ring-gai Council on 9424 0753.

 Rose Seidler House, 71 Clissold Street, Wahroonga. Features a house designed by Harry Seidler and furnished with original 1950s furnishings. The gardens include rockeries, exotic flowers and trees, fruit trees, and are surrounded by the bush of the Ku-ring-gai National Park. Fees: apply for ceremonies. Contact: Historic Houses Trust on 9989 8020.

 Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden, 420 Mona Vale Road, St Ives. Features heathland, forests, sandstone outcrops, ponds and waterfalls and the Visitor Centre can be also be booked as a wet weather alternative. Fees: apply. Contact: 9440 8609.

 Beechwood Cottage, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, Pittwater. Features a beautifully restored 1880?s cottage available as an indoor ceremony location, surrounded by an open yard which is suitable for a marquee and a nearby beach. Fees: apply Contact: National Parks & Wildlife Service on 9974 1011.

 Banjo Paterson Park, Punt Road, Gladesville. Features a very popular wedding location with views over Looking Glass Bay and the Parramatta River, a wharf and the home of poet Banjo Paterson, Rockend Cottage.  Putney Park, Pellisier Road, Putney. Features a large, flat park on the Parramatta River with a gazebo and shady trees.  Kissing Point Park, Waterview Street, Putney. Features waterviews and a wharf.  Glades Bay Park, Linsley Street, Gladesville. Features a pretty park along the Parramatta River. Fees: for ceremonies, different fees are payable for residents and non-residents and a small fee is charged for photographs. Contact: Ryde Council on 9952 8249.  Clarkes Point Reserve, Clarke Road, Woolwich. Features large, open grassy park with views of Sydney Harbour and the Harbour Bridge. This is the area?s most popular ceremony location.  Gladesville Reserve, Huntley?s Point Road, Gladesville. Features open grassy park with wharf.  Buffalo Creek Reserve, Pittwater Road, . Features natural bushy area with rainforest and wildflowers. Fees: apply for groups of more than 20 on an hourly rate. Contact: Hunters Hill Council on 9879 9400.

, , North Ryde. Features beautiful riverside spots for ceremonies and photos with many open areas. Fees: payable for ceremonies. Contact: National Parks & Wildlife Service on 9888 9160.

Imagine your country wedding in peaceful surroundings leaving the hustle and bustle of the city behind. Imagine your country wedding at a romantic stone church or in fragrant gardens. Imagine your country wedding at a grand reception centre, charming guesthouse or fine restaurant.

Imagine your country wedding in the Southern Highlands.

The Southern Highlands is only a 90 minute drive from Sydney and offers many wonderful opportunities for an unique and memorable wedding. And the Highlands offer many wedding professionals and services to ensure your day is all you hope for.

The Southern Highlands has four distinct seasons with spring and autumn being the most popular wedding seasons.

In Spring you will find large displays of flowers and bulbs in both public and private gardens, many of which are available for ceremonies or for photographs.

Autumn brings striking colours to the Highlands as the European trees and shrubs turn red, gold and orange.

Winter, with its chance of snow, offers stark bare branches against a grey sky and thoughts turn more indoors to romantic log fires, warming mulled wine and delicious gourmet meals.

Summer, cooler and less humid than in Sydney, is the perfect season for an outdoor wedding reception under a marquee or the starry sky. The villages and towns of the Southern Highlands are full of history and romance and are worth exploring for your perfect ceremony or photographic spot.

Berrima Berrima, established in 1831, is the only existing Georgian colonial town in Australia. With the prospect of becoming the local county capital, Berrima was designed as a traditional English village with a green at its centre, public buildings surrounding it and streets off it for residences. A goal, courthouse and residences for government officials were built, many of them by convict labour. Berrima however did not develop into a major centre but has remained as an unique example of early colonial architecture. Today the village?s main industry is tourism as the locals actively maintain and preserve their beautiful old buildings.

Bowral , the area's biggest village was established in 1861 and by the 1880s had become a fashionable summer retreat for Sydney's wealthy. Grand residences were built during that time including residences owned by the Fairfax and Hordern families. Many of the village's deciduous trees were planted around this time in an effort to make Bowral look more like England, including the oaks in Station Street.

Corbett Gardens in Merrigang Street dates back to 1911 and is home of the Tulip Time Festival during spring. The gardens feature colourful bulbs and annual flowers, shrubs and ornamental trees. There is also a replica of the original band rotunda.

Bundanoon The area around Bundanoon, from the local aboriginal name meaning ?place of deep gullies? was discovered by Dr Charles Throsby in 1818 on an expedition to find a route to Jervis Bay. So impressed by the extraordinary scenery Throsby persuaded the Governor to declare a heritage reserve over 1,000 acres in 1824, which is now part of the . Settlement of the town commenced in 1861 and by the 1900s Bundanoon was a small, thriving village with nearby timber mills, dairy farms and a sandstone quarry. By the 1920s guesthouses flourished as visitors from Sydney were attracted to the area?s spectacular scenery, remaining a popular weekend or day trip place until the 1950s.

Today, apart from each April when host to 'Brigadoon' (the largest Highland gathering in Australia), Bundanoon is a sleepy village offering cold mountain air, mysterious fogs and spectacular scenery. Burrawang The village of Burrawang was established in 1865 and today is a peaceful village surrounded by beautiful countryside. A number of the original buildings from the 1870s are still in existence including the general store, bank, schoolhouse and several churches. There is a sense of isolation about the village and the feeling that time has stood still but in fact it is only 15 minutes from Bowral or Moss Vale.

Exeter With its leafy lanes and streets, clipped hedges and grand rows of trees, Exeter gives the impression of an old English village. Visit Exeter Park, a beautifully maintained village green. Historic buildings include St Aidans Church (opened in 1896) and the School of Arts - a mock-Tudor style building which opened in 1902.

Mittagong , from its earliest days, has been the gateway to the Southern Highlands.

It was first settled in 1821 and within a short time many inns sprang up to serve those travelling on the main southern highway. A number of these are still standing including the Poplars Restaurant, Braemar Lodge and Fitzroy Inn. Many interesting historic buildings can be found along Pioneer Street and around the station. Winifred West Park on the is a beautiful park planted with massed displays of flowers throughout spring and autumn.

Robertson The village of Robertson dates back to the late 1870s when farming was the area's main activity. Situated on the mountain ridge which forms the , it has spectacular valley and mountain views. Today, Robertson is a popular tourist spot with a large crafts community and quality accommodation and eateries.

Unique locations for your ceremony and photographs

Gardens and other special places

 Redlands - Oxley Drive, Mittagong. Features mature exotic trees, expansive lawns, colourful bulbs, annuals and perennials, a terraced knot garden, ponds and an antique French gazebo. A romantic and relaxing garden. Contact Michele Scamps on 4871 3232 or email [email protected] .  Buskers End - St Clair Street, Bowral. Features spring bulbs such as bluebells, ixias and daffodils under ancient cherry and dogwood blossoms. In autumn the deciduous trees and shrubs create a brilliant display. There are also lupins, delphiniums, camellias and rhododendrons. Wisterias cover arches and pergolas and pathways wind away to secluded spots. Contact Joan Arnold on 4861 2942.  Trentwood - Broughton Street, Moss Vale. Features magnificent spring flower trees such as crabapple, cherry, dogwood and magnolia alongside massed plantings of bulbs, camellias, azaleas and rhododendrons. Autumn deciduous trees create a blaze of colour against a backdrop of conifers, hedges and shrubs. Rural views add a sense of space and tranquility. Contact Vivianne McCleery on 4868 2246 or email [email protected] .

Public parks

 Corbett Gardens - Merrigang Street, Bowral. Features colourful springtime bulbs and annual flowers, shrubs, ornamental trees, secluded spots and a band rotunda.  The Gib Picnic Grounds Mount Gibraltar - Oxley Drive, Mittagong. Features sweeping views of the surrounding area in a bush setting.  Lake Alexandra Reserve - Queen Street, Mittagong. Features a pretty lake with water birds in a picturesque bush setting.  Winifred West Park - Hume Highway, Mittagong. Features a bright display of massed bulbs and flowers throughout spring and autumn.  Leighton Gardens - Argyle Street, Moss Vale. Features beautiful garden bed displays and a well maintained band rotunda.

Contact Wingecarribee Shire Council on 4868 0888 for above 5 parks. Cost - no fee is payable.

Contacts:

 Wingecarribee Shire Council (02) 4868 9088  Wingecarribee Tourist Information Centre (02) 4871 2888

 Old St Thomas Chapel, Wilson Crescent, Narellan. Features an historic church built in 1884, which is available for religious or civil ceremonies using your own celebrant or minister. The colourful stained glass windows and formal altar create a wonderful atmosphere. A very popular indoor ceremony location. Fees: are payable. Contact: Kylie or Peter Lyons on 4647 5064.

 Mount Annan Botanic Garden, Mount Annan Drive, Mt Annan. Features native plant landscaped gardens and ornamental lakes surrounded by lawn areas and panoramic views. An ideal place to have it all - ceremony, photos and reception. Fees: are payable. Contact: 4634 7933.  Belgenny Farm, Elizabeth Macarthur Avenue, Camden. Australia’s oldest working farm and features convict-built Georgian buildings, decorative pagoda and a peaceful, rural atmosphere. Fees: apply for ceremonies and photographs. Contact: 4655 9651.

 Memorial Gardens, Oxley Street, Camden. Features landscaped gardens and red carpet, seating and a bridal entry arch. A wet weather alternative can also be arranged. Fees: apply for ceremonies. Contact: 4655 8681.

 Macarthur Park, Menangle Road, Camden. Features fern and wisteria walks and heritage rose garden.  Chellaston Reserve, Chellaston Road, Camden. Features a lovely, open park alongside the Nepean River with a bridge.  Macquarie Grove, Macquarie Grove Road, Camden. Features a riverside location near Camden Airport. Fees: apply in some parks for ceremonies and photographs. Contact: Camden Council on 4655 2455.

 Camden Airport, Macquarie Grove Road, Camden. Features a very interesting photo location with a backdrop of the aircraft. Contact: on 9796 2300.

 Mawson Park - Queen Street, Campbelltown. Features established trees and a Sydney milestone. It is the area’s oldest park.  Koshigaya Park, Hurley Street & Camden Road, Campbelltown. Features an avenue of glorious cherry blossoms, Japanese tea house with gardens, waterfall and a Japanese bridge.  Razorback Lookout, Remembrance Drive, Razorback. Features panoramic views of the Camden district and towards Sydney.  Emily Cottage, Old Menangle Road, Campbelltown. Features a toll house from the early 1840s.  Historic Water & Cattle Tank, between Dumaresq & Allman Streets, Campbelltown. Features convict-built stone spillway and sandstone tank.  Pembroke Park, Pembrooke Road, Leumeah. Features a bushland setting.  Simmo’s Beach, Fifth Avenue, Macquarie Fields. Features natural bush settings and sandy beaches along the Georges River. Contact: Campbelltown City Council on 4620 1595.  Campbelltown Arts Centre, Old Menangle Road, Campbelltown. Features the Japanese Tea Gardens with traditional design and plantings and Sculpture Garden. Fees: apply. Contact: 4645 4100.

 Pictons Botanical Gardens, Regreme Road, Picton. Features landscaped gardens. Contact: 4677 3962.

 St Helens Park House, St Helens Drive, St Helens Park. Features historic buildings and beautiful gardens. Contact: 4621 1546.

 Camelot, Kirkham Lane, Kirkham. Features historic buildings and landscaped gardens. Fees: apply. Contact: 0428 213 578.

 John Oxley Cottage, Camden Valley Way, Elderslie. Features a quaint cottage and sensory garden. Contact: Visitors Information Centre on 4658 1370.

 University of Western Sydney Macarthur, Narellan Road, Campbelltown. Features open, grassy areas and a lake. Contact: 4620 3444.

 Wivenhoe Historic House, 229 Macquarie Grove Road, Camden. Features landscaped gardens, historic buildings, views of Camden Valley, Camden Airport and the Razorback Range. Fees: are payable. Contact: 4655 7057.

 Chapel Hill, 36 Berambing Cres, Berambing. Features a non-denominational chapel in an Australian country style with beautiful stained glass windows. Set in spectacular seasonal gardens, the grounds make a beautiful backdrop for photographs. Fees: apply. Contact: 4567 2156.  The Carrington Hotel, 15-47 Katoomba Street, Katoomba. Features a renovated, historic hotel with a library which can be used for wedding ceremonies. Special features of the library are its wood panelling, an open fire and leadlight windows. Fees: apply. Contact: 4782 1111.

 Everglades Gardens, 37 Everglades Avenue, Leura. Features gardens designed by Paul Sorensen, terraces, winding paths, Grotto Pool, seasonal floral display, set in a spectacular location on the escarpment with views of and the . Fees: apply for both ceremonies and photographs. Contact: National Trust on 4784 1938.

 Southall, Great Western Highway, Springwood. Features a chapel, manicured gardens and lawns, classic courtyard, wide verandahs and heritage buildings. Fees: apply. Contact: 4751 8212.

 Mt Tomah Botanic Gardens, Bells Line of Road, Mount Tomah. Features 28 hectares of cool climate landscaped gardens. Fees: apply for ceremonies and photographs. Contact: Visitor Centre on 4567 2154.

 Cathedral of Ferns, Mt Irvine Road, Mt Wilson. Features ancient tree fern stand and grassy areas.  Mt Victoria Park, Great Western Highway and Station Street, Mt Victoria. Features open lawns and established trees.  Memorial Park, Prince Edward Street, Blackheath. Features lawn areas, rhododendron gardens and established trees.  Kingsford Smith Park, Lurline & Gang Gang Streets, Katoomba. Features a deep amphitheatre with established gardens.  Honeymoon Lookout, Cliff Drive, Katoomba. Features a small rocky ledge overlooking the Jamison Valley.  Civic Place Park, Civic Place, Katoomba. Features a small park with landscaped gardens.  Leura Cascades, Cliff Drive, Leura. Features flat, open, grassed area and a waterfall, in a bush setting.  Bridal Veil Lookout, Cliff Drive, Leura. Features stunning views of the Jamison Valley.  Gordon Falls Lookout, Olympian Parade, Leura. Features stunning views of the Jamison Valley.  Wentworth Falls Lake, Sinclair Crescent, Wentworth Falls. Features open grassed areas, established trees and a lakeside location.  Princes Rock Lookout, Falls Road, Wentworth Falls. Features stunning views over the Jamison Valley.  , Tableland Road, Wentworth Falls. Features a number of flat, rocky outcrops overlooking the Jamison Valley. Especially popular for dramatic photographs.  Wilson Park, St Bernards Drive, Lawson. Features an unusual pond feature and small waterfall in a bushland setting.  Corridor of Oaks, Sir Henry?s Parade, Faulconbridge. Features an old-fashioned park with grassed areas and established trees.  Buttenshaw Park, Great Western Highway, Springwood. Features flowering garden beds, wisteria covered arbours and lawn areas.  Glenbrook Park, Park Street, Glenbrook. Features a small park with landscaped, native gardens. Fees: a small charge is payable for both ceremonies and photos. Contact: Blue Mountains City Council on 4780 5613.

 Norman Lindsay Gallery & Museum, 14 Norman Lindsay Crescent, Faulconbridge. Features Roman-style landscaped gardens, sculptures, fountains and the historic home of Norman Lindsay, in a bush setting. Fees: are payable. Contact: 4751 1067.

 Leuralla, 36 Olympian Parade, Leura. Features a magnificent sandstone and slate amphitheatre situated on the escarpment with views over the Jamison Valley. The gardens feature rhododendron, dogwood, camellia and azalea groves, covered arbours, massed displays of tulips, daffodil and bluebells. The amphitheatre is available for ceremonies and the gardens for photographs. A very popular location for both. Fees: apply for ceremonies and photographs. Contact: 4784 1169.

 Bacchante Gardens, Bacchante Street, Blackheath. Features a woodland garden with an amazing display of rhododendrons, azaleas, and ornamental, deciduous trees. Especially beautiful in late October and early November when the flowers are in bloom and in April when the deciduous trees are alive with colour. Fees: are payable. Contact: Blue Mountains Rhododendron Society on 4787 8695.

 Sefton Cottage, Church Lane, Mt Wilson. Features rambling English garden and beautiful views. A marquee and night lighting are also available. Fees: apply. Contact: 4756 2034.  The Garden of Karlyle, Woodford. Features garden rooms with gazebo, bridge, fountains, knot garden, Chinese influences, mountains views. Photographs only. Fees: apply. Contact: 4758 7017.

 Hartfields Gardens, Hawkesbury Road, Hawkesbury Heights. Features historical sandstone house built 1869, with English spring garden. All proceeds from wedding bookings goes to the North Rocks Deaf and Blind Centre. Contact: 4754 1344.

 Evans Lookout, Evans Lookout Road, Blackheath. Features dramatic escarpment and valley views, the area is large enough for an outdoor ceremony.  Cahill's Lookout - Cliff Drive (off Narrow Neck Road), Katoomba. Features interesting rock formations, cliff views and views down to the . Fees: apply for bookings for ceremonies. Contact: National Parks & Wildlife Service on 4787 8877.

 Hartley Historic Site, Great Western Highway, Little Hartley. Features a well preserved village from the 1800s. Contact: National Parks & Wildlife Service on 6355 2117.

Bathurst is the oldest inland city in the country, and its history is one of its main attractions. The city has many historic churches - choose from almost any denomination for a religious wedding service.

Its historical buildings make good backdrops for photographs and there are many parks, including the city's garden centrepiece, Machattie Park where weddings can be held with permission.

The city is rich with history as Bathurst was once the headquarters of Cobb and Co coaches. There are fine examples of the colonial period of Australian architecture, the Victorian period as well as Federation style.

The city was built around its stunning Court House, built in 1878.

The Court House overlooks Machattie Park which dates back to 1847 and feature huge established trees and a large rotunda.

There is an impressive fernery which dates back to 1900 featuring marble statuary. The statues 'Prigioniera D'amore (prisoner of love) and Dispacato D'amore (messenger of love) re-enforce the park's romantic qualities. There are many private gardens available for weddings and photographs in Bathurst.

Public parks and gardens include Kings Parade, opposite the Court House with its carillon bell tower and monuments. The carillon has 35 bells and can still be played by hand. It plays each day at 12 noon and 1pm.

McPhillamy Park at the top of Mt Panorama racing circuit, offers a panoramic view of Bathurst.

Other parks with barbecue facilities are perfect for al fresco, informal weddings. There is the Bridle Track with its lovely, shady spots and Macquarie Woods with its Heritage Grove. Check with the Bathurst City Council on 6331 1622 for permission to use the parks.

Ohkuma Japanese Garden is a new garden symbolising the relationship between Bathurst and its Japanese sister city Ohkuma.

You might look for photographic possibilities against the Japanese flowering cherry trees and Japanese Maples.

Garden ceremonies are also available at historic Woolstone House. Woolstone House was built in 1830 in an area rich in the history of Australia?s colonial past. It is a magnificent example of Victorian architecture complete with a ballroom which suggests a bygone era. It is famous for its magnificent Victorian surrounds - just perfect for weddings.

Lithgow In Lithgow parks and gardens for weddings include Queen Elizabeth Park which is also popular for photographs. Council permission is needed. Blast Furnace Park is great for photographs, as are Hassen Walls and Esbank House.

Also popular is the beautiful Hoskins Uniting Church for a traditional Christian wedding and Council's Union Theatre should be ready for weddings.

Lithgow City Council can be contacted on 6352 1077. The Visitors' Centre is on 6353 1859.

Orange Orange is described as 'Australia's colour city' a glorious vista of colour no matter what the season may be. In Orange you can find tree-lined streets and parks with trees well over 100 years old and the city offers a wealth of heritage architecture and historic buildings. Orange has always been a popular tourist destination - the city was named after Prince William of Orange, and it is a wonderful place for a country wedding.

Orange also offers fine dining, with a host of cosmopolitan cafes and gourmet restaurants and has the full range of accommodation options - from historic hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts to farmstays that even have their own pet kangaroos.

But one of the best and most romantic things about Orange is, it is almost guaranteed to snow each year and snow quite heavily.

Mt Canobolas, which dominates the area and is the highest point between the Blue Mountains and the Indian Ocean, is usually always snow capped in winter. In Spring, bushwalkers love its wildflower studded mountain tracks, with rare and unique flora to be found.

In the City Cook Park has a variety of locations which are popular for weddings.

The park has the original caretaker's cottage built in 1887. You can also see the 120- year-old Deodar Cedars which form a beautiful canopy over the area.

Cook Park also has an avenue of 60 year old elm trees which are spectacular in autumn and a beautiful duck pond which is a perfect picnic spot.

In Orange's Botanic Gardens photo sessions and ceremonies are often held on the weeping elm lawn and heritage rose garden. The century-old church in the gardens is also popular.

Orange Botanic Gardens can be contacted on 6361 5186. Check with Orange City Council on 6361 5111 for permission to use parks and gardens for weddings and photographs.

There are also a number of private gardens available for weddings. Check with Orange Visitors' Centre on 6361 5226.

Outside Orange you will find perfectly preserved historic villages at Millthorpe and Carcoar.

Carcoar is unique in that its main streets have barely changed since they were first built last century. Most of the tiny township is classified by the National Trust. Carcoar has a number of beautiful old churches, set high on a hill above the village, the original old bank buildings, antique stores and a fascinating old general store. Millthorpe is also beautifully preserved with its old fashioned shops, weatherboard cottages and historic churches

In Bathurst, Lithgow Orange, as in other country areas wedding professional services can be far more economical than those in the city.

Contacts

 Lithgow City Council - 6352 1077  Orange Botanic Gardens - 6361 5186  Orange City Council - 6361 5111  Bathurst City Council - 6331 1622