Hyde Park Barracks

A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site in the heart of historic Sydney, the Hyde Park Barracks is an extraordinary living record of early colonial Australia. Originally built to house convicts, the Barracks has also served as an immigration depot, asylum, law courts and government offices. Today it is a cutting-edge museum. Today this immersive museum tells the stories of the thousands of men, women and children held or housed there, and the Aboriginal communities profoundly impacted by the relentless push of colonial expansion.

Today, the barracks provide an extraordinary new way to experience history. Layered with cutting-edge innovation throughout, the museum redefines the heritage experience, bringing Sydney’s past to life more authentically than ever before.

Led by groundbreaking audio technology, you’ll follow in the footsteps of real people touched by this place. Stand where they stood. Listen to their stories. With immersive installations, this is not simply a walk through history. It’s living it.

It’s also the chance to discover one of Australia’s most important archaeological collections. Displaying over 4,000 original artefacts, the barracks is a direct link to items worn, touched and treasured by past residents – including an intact convict shirt and leather shoe. A rare opportunity to get up close and personal with Australia’s past.