Lady Gowrie Lookout

Lovely little lookout for a spot of the harbour that is often missed.

I can’t believe it’s been nearly 9 years since my last visit here; Discovering this hidden gem in August of 2013, was a significant highlight as I wandered around Kirribilli.On that day, I happened upon an angler who was here doing a spot of fishing with his pooch, and we struck up a quick and friendly chat. He said he'd caught a few fish. I didn't want to impede on him too much so I took a few quick snaps, and bookmarked the spot in my brain for a return on another day.Well today was the triumphant return, and I suspect as I did back then, that many people still don’t know this serene sanctuary exists. It’s a large-ish location in terms of available seating and the unobscured view of Fort Dennison gives a photographer unparalleled perspective.

If you get down there early enough with the tripod you could probably get a spectacular sunrise shot, that hasn't been done to death like every other vantage point in Sydney.

If you walk past Killibilli House and Admiralty House you'll come across this lookout. You can see views east across Sydney Harbour towards Neutral Bay, Cremorne and Mosman. There is a small park with seating here. The steps lead down to the water's edge. There are no toilets here. And this is not a wheelchair friendly location. The lookout was named after Zara Eileen Hore-Ruthven, the Countess of Gowrie (1879-1965). She was the Irish-born wife of the 1st Earl of Gowrie, who was the Governor of South Australia between 1928 & 1934 and the Governor of New South Wales in 1935 & 1936. He was the longest serving Governor-General of Australia 1936-44. Zara Eileen Hore-Ruthven was renowned for her work in promoting the welfare of children in Australia. Lady Gowrie was also a keen horticulturist. She planted a tree in this location as she departed Australia in 1944.

Offers a great view of the eastern side of the harbour. Lots of bench seats to sit and take in the view. Best aspect to escape a westerly wind.

Lovely old lookout located next to Kirribilli house. steps lead down to waterfront with plenty of seating

A beautiful little place to visit with a cup of coffee.

Short on facilities but big on views. Particularly back to Opera House and Bridge. Easy picturesque walk to and from Circular Quay.

Small park that lets you go all the way to the harbour rocks. Saw a couple of blokes fishing and others chilling on the benches. Not much else to see other than the water and fort denison on the right

A little hidden gem located at the end of the fence attached to the Prime Ministers home.A quiet purpose built location on the water looking across Sydney Harbour suitable to have lunch at the tables or a chat with someone.Local parking can be an issue on weekends and there are no close by toilets