Woolwich Baths sits at the tip of the Hunters Hill peninsula, where the Lane Cove and Parramatta rivers meet, and has been a local swimming spot since 1907. It's free and calm, and suits families and river swimmers who like a netted area with a walkway out over the water.
Key facts
- Type
- Harbour or river baths
- Facilities and access
- Walkway, open late September to end of March
- Managed by
- Hunters Hill Council
- Cost
- Free
- Lifeguards
- No
- Parking
- Limited, time restricted
- Public transport
- Ferry to Woolwich
- Best time to go
- Calm summer days after dry weather
- Water quality
- GoodWoolwich Baths, 0.0 km away. Sampled 27 Oct. Data: NSW Beachwatch, CC BY 4.0.
- Town
- Woolwich, NSW
What it's like
A walkway and standing platform lead out over the netted swimming area, with an open, unnetted stretch of rocks and sand beside it. The water is calm river water, sheltered from wind and swell, and on summer afternoons it becomes the neighbourhood's cooling-off spot. Opened in 1907, it is one of the oldest harbour baths in the country.
When to go
Summer afternoons are lively; mornings are calmer. The water is tested by NSW Beachwatch, so look at the latest result and skip it after heavy rain.
Getting there and facilities
The entrance sign is on Woolwich Road, with steps and a path leading down towards Collingwood Street and the water. Parking is limited and time restricted, so the ferry to Woolwich is often easier. There are showers at the baths.
Good to know
Nobody patrols here, so stick to the netted area. Blue-ringed octopus live around the rocks: look, but never touch.