Private Tour
Historic Walking Tour of Watsons Bay
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
From horrific shipwrecks to fleeing immigrants to cave houses and wartime panic, Watsons Bay is dripping in history that is often overlooked. This jaw-droppingly beautiful sandstone peninsula on Sydney's South Head has stories of Australia's first lighthouse, private zoos and drunken politicians, just to name a few. With breathtaking cliff faces on one side and stunning beaches on the other, this tour is incredible on all fronts. Along the tour route, amazing views of Manly, the city, the Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge can be seen.
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Admission fee
Bottled water
What To Expect
Macquarie Lighthouse
The site of Australia's oldest lighthouse boasts incredible ocean views and a stunning Victorian lighthouse
The Gap Lookout
An amazing lookout over Sydney Heads
Options
Historic Walking Tour of Watsons Bay
Reviews
4 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Fascinating history of the most beautiful place with fantastic Ned
DaryaM73,
Nov 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a very special tour with Ned. The other attendees canceled at the last moment but Ned was super customer friendly and led the whole excursion for the three of our family only! We love Watsons Bay and have lived here for many years but Ned told us many fascinating stories we’ve never heard and showed us the secret spots in this amazing place. Thank you, Ned! I hope more people will come to learn about the history of Watsons Bay with you!
Napoleon in Sydney
sanderadio,
Aug 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We really enjoyed the Watsons Bay Real History Walking Tour. Ned was again magnificent, such a real story-teller and very knowledgeable historian. I learned so many interesting things – about the First Fleet arriving in Sydney and how hard life was for the early settlers, the tragic sinking of the Dunbar at the cliffs, and the old lighthouse that is still keeping the ships safe. Most surprising for me was inside St. Peter’s Church, where they have Napoleon’s organ, brought all the way from France. This tour made the history come alive, I'd recommend it very much.
Fabulous historical tour
sharonmG770RA,
Aug 17, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Ned was an exceptional tour guide. He gave us lots of very interesting information and took us to various historical sites. Even though we knew quite a lot about early Australian and colonial history Ned's intensive knowledge of the area added to our interest. We discovered lots of new events, people and places that we had not known about which was fabulous. We would highly recommend this tour if you are a history buff or if you just want a great day out walking around this stunningly beautiful area.
Sooo FUN !!!
michd652,
Jun 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I had heard about Ned and his fab tours from friends… so when my bestie from WA was visiting I decided to book us in . History is one of those subjects I love but struggle with the whole over used chronological theme that some guides like err to use … ( ya know, brain overload ?!) Ned kept my attention the whole time , he is very personable , knowledgeable passionate and mixes old with new . Do I recommend this tour absolutely!!! Look forward to the next one Ned . Marcella (SYD) and Nadia (WA)
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Operated by Real History Walking Tours