Mort Bay Park

Dogs welcome — rules applyDog rules
Dog rating

Updated 24 May 2026

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Mort Bay Park is a well-regarded dog-friendly park in Birchgrove with an off-leash area where dogs can roam off lead and plenty of shade, with some time-based restrictions in place. Just 250m away, The Dry Dock Public House and Dining Room is a great nearby spot to relax with your dog after a walk.

Dog rules

A designated area of Mort Bay Park is off-leash at all times. Within the Village Green, dogs must be on a leash during community events. Dogs are not permitted within 10 metres of the children's playground.

At a glance

On & off-leash zonesAdmin team verified
Shade availableFrom reviews
Parking nearbyFrom reviews
Seating availableVenue website
BBQsVenue website
Mort St, Birchgrove NSW 2041, Australia

Before you go

  • ℹ️Dogs allowed at certain times/areas — check official source for details.
  • 💧No confirmed drinking water — bring your own to be safe.
  • 🗑Poo bags not confirmed — best to bring your own.
  • 🧱No confirmed fencing — keep your dog on lead if unsure.

What people say

John K.
Google Maps
★★★★★6 months ago

Mort Bay Park Mort Bay Park has numerous open space areas, an all abilities playground and great views of Sydney Harbour. Built in 1854, it was Australia's first large scale dry dock. Balmain wharf is at the beginning of this park During WWI and WWII the docks were busy places, building minesweepers and corvettes. Mort's Dock and engineering closed in 1958. Dog friendly Park I had a really friendly bulldog make friends with me, cute and friendly bulldog!!Mort Bay Park, ​Mort Bay Park, located on the beautiful Sydney Harbour foreshore (technically in Birchgrove, bordering Balmain), is a fantastic park that truly offers something for everyone, combining stunning views with great facilities and rich history. ​Spectacular Views: The park boasts direct, uninterrupted views of the western side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the city skyline. It's a prime spot for photography, picnics, and watching the harbour activity. ​Family-Friendly Amenities: The park is extremely popular with families. ​It features a large, often-shaded playground with modern, inclusive equipment (following recent upgrades), including water play, a sandpit, swings, and climbing structures. ​There are also BBQs, picnic tables, and large open spaces for general play. ​Recreation and Exercise: ​The large, flat concrete dock area is perfect for kids on scooters and bikes. ​There are basketball courts/hoops available. ​It serves as a starting point for scenic foreshore walks, such as the one to nearby Ballast Point Park. ​Dog-Friendly: The park has designated off-leash areas for dogs, making it a great destination for pet owners. ​Historic Significance: The park sits on the site of the former Mort's Dock, Australia's first major dry dock and shipyard (operating from 1855 to 1959). Plaques and the remaining dock structures offer a fascinating glimpse into Sydney's maritime past. ​Things to Consider ​Accessibility to Facilities: While toilets are available, they are generally located near McKell Street, which is a bit of a walk from the main playground area. ​No On-Site Cafe: There are no food vendors within the park itself, so you'll need to bring your own snacks and drinks, or walk a short distance to nearby Balmain/Birchgrove streets for cafes. ​Parking: On-street parking is generally available but can be limited, especially on busy weekends. Consider taking the ferry to the nearby Thames Street Wharf for an easy, scenic arrival. ​Mort Bay Park is a top-tier harbourside park. Its blend of green space, historical interest, modern play equipment, and magnificent views makes it an ideal location for a wide range of activities, from a family day out to a simple, relaxing picnic. It's a cherished local gem and well worth a visit.

Sydney P.
Google Maps
★★★★★4 months ago

We recently had the pleasure of setting up for a special little boys first birthday and it was the perfect venue for such a special celebration! While we don't usually set up in public areas or parks, as the weather was good and there was guaranteed shade as well as being able to set up on a secure and safe surface, we made an exception! We set up our softplay package here and everyone had a blast, especially the birthday boy 🥰

Tony T.
Google Maps
★★★★★6 months ago

A unique urban Harbourside Sanctuary transformed from an early colonial and industrial heritage. Loved the restoration efforts which make this a haven for people and pets of all ages to enjoy. Tony and Alison Point Clare NSW

Carole W.
Google Maps
★★★★★8 months ago

Very all ages friendly place with great shady playing area and basic facility!!!

Clare L.
Google Maps
★★★★★11 months ago

Magnificent view, great for fishing and basketball! Short walk to main street of balmain and close to ferry. Not crowded so great to visit.

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How we know this

We check council regulations, official sources, and community reviews to verify dog access at every venue. Access may change — always check on-site signage. Something wrong or missing? Submit feedback. How it works.