Third Quarantine Cemetery
A solemn historical cemetery on North Head, offering poignant reflections on Sydney's quarantine past and stunning harbour views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Spot hidden orchids
Third Quarantine Cemetery
Best Time
Spot hidden orchids
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn historical cemetery on North Head, offering poignant reflections on Sydney's quarantine past and stunning harbour views.
"Very moving and somewhat disconcerting but well worth a visit."
Combine with Q-Station Tour
Visiting after a Q-Station tour adds significant historical context and emotional depth. 📝
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is part of North Head Sanctuary, perfect for walks. :athletic_shoe:
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 17 reviews
Type
Cemetery
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Resting Place of Early Settlers
North Head Sanctuary
A solemn cemetery holding the stories of those who succumbed to disease during Sydney's quarantine era.
Panoramic Sydney Harbour Views
Adjacent to the cemetery
Breathtaking vistas of Sydney Harbour, offering a stark contrast to the historical solemnity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Moving Historical Site
Combine with Scenic Walks
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Combine with Q-Station Tour
Visiting after a Q-Station tour adds significant historical context and emotional depth. 📝
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is part of North Head Sanctuary, perfect for walks. :athletic_shoe:
North Head Quarantine Station & Cemetery
There’s a wealth of things to explore at North Head, and certainly my most recommended “undiscovered” thing for locals and tourists. A trail starts just above the car park of Shelly Beach at Manly that has amazing coastal views, then goes through an area with rockpools, and…
Enjoy the Views
Don't miss the sweeping Sydney Harbour views near the cemetery. :camerawithflash:
Check Volunteer Days
Volunteers are often present on the first Wednesday of the month and can share hidden gems. :bustsinsilhouette:
"Lesser Known" things to do in/around Brisbane and Sydney?
I'm trying to plan a trip to Australia with a group of college students, and I'm trying to find some things to do as a group that might not be easily "found" or widely known, but that they'd still likely enjoy. It can really be anything--museums, national parks, certain beaches,…
Tips
from all over the internet
Combine with Q-Station Tour
Visiting after a Q-Station tour adds significant historical context and emotional depth. 📝
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is part of North Head Sanctuary, perfect for walks. :athletic_shoe:
Enjoy the Views
Don't miss the sweeping Sydney Harbour views near the cemetery. :camerawithflash:
Check Volunteer Days
Volunteers are often present on the first Wednesday of the month and can share hidden gems. :bustsinsilhouette:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Third Quarantine Cemetery a moving and historically significant site, especially when visited in conjunction with the Q-Station. The stunning Sydney Harbour views nearby are a major draw, offering a beautiful contrast to the solemnity of the graves. Some appreciate the efforts of volunteers who maintain the site and share its hidden gems.
"We visited this cemetery, a day after we had enjoyed a tour of the Q-Station. It does really bring it home to you when you see the resting places of people, who were the subject of the tour the previous day.
Very moving and somewhat disconcerting but well worth a visit."
Rick Siffleet
"Great spot to visit when your up at Nth Head. Not far from the Bella vista Cafe at North Head so good to do both of them plus the views over Nth Head. You can get the bus up from Manly if you like. I always include it when I'm doing the Manly to North Head walk. Lots of History up here from the early days of the Quarantine Station"
Chris Abbott
"Fascinating historical location with beautiful sweeping views of Sydney Harbour"
B C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a bus from Manly to North Head Sanctuary, or drive and park near the visitors centre. The cemetery is a short walk from there.
Yes, the walks around North Head are generally feasible for children, especially if you take your time and enjoy the scenery.
Yes, driving is an option, and parking is available near the visitors centre. Be mindful of potential school holiday traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Third Quarantine Cemetery is part of North Head Sanctuary, which is generally free to access. Check official park websites for any specific event fees.
North Head Sanctuary is typically open daily, but it's always best to check the official Harbour Trust website for the most up-to-date hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
It served as a resting place for individuals who died from diseases like cholera and bubonic plague during Sydney's quarantine period, established due to fears of 'poisonous juices' from bodies.
Besides visiting the cemetery, consider the Australia's Memorial Walk and the Hanging Swamp for a comprehensive experience of the sanctuary.
While not always advertised, small groups of volunteers sometimes gather on the first Wednesday of the month and can offer insights into the site's hidden gems.
You'll find historical graves and a moving atmosphere, alongside beautiful views of Sydney Harbour.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the solemnity of the graves, the expansive Sydney Harbour views, and potentially the unique flora like flying duck orchids in spring.
The elevated position offers great views, but check sunset times and ensure you are aware of park closing times if visiting late.
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