Parramatta Travel Guide

Parramatta is located 23km from Sydney's CBD, a city/suburb of Sydney city. Parramatta means 'river of eels' in the local Aborigine language. Parramatta is Australia's 6th largest city with a population of around 150,000 people.

Parramatta was the second location that was settled in Australia. Captain Arthur Philip first traveled up the Parramatta river to Parramatta on the 2nd November 1788. The first settlers came to Parramatta in 1789 because of it's fertile farming land.

Parramatta River

Parramatta River

Parramatta still has some fine examples of historical buildings from the early settlers.

Parramatta park has some fine historical sites including the original Government House where Governor Arthur lived. The house is still standing in remarkable condition and is open tot he public.

Parramatta Park entrance Tudor Gatehouse

Tudor Gatehouse - entrance to Parramatta Park built in 1885

Pubs and Bars in Parramatta

There are a number of great pubs and bars to drink at in Parramatta including some of the oldest pubs in Australian with real character and charm.

Woolpack Hotel 19 George St Parramatta is one of the oldest pubs in Sydney dating back to 1796. It has been recently renovated. The Woolpack Hotel serves good Thai food at lunch and dinner.

Woolpack Hotel Parramatta

Woolpack Hotel Parramatta

The Collector Hotel www.collectorhotel.com.au

The Commerical Hotel

Woolpack Hotel

Albion Hotel

Check out our list of Restaurants in Parramatta including restaurant reviews.

Parramatta Farmers Markets

Parramatta Farmers Markets, opened every Saturday in Church Street mall in front of the Parramatta Town Hall, are the oldest farmers markets operating in Australia. The farmers markets first started in 1791 though are very different today. Instead of purely fruit and vegetable markets now they sell everything from pot plants, clothing, jewelry and offer massage.

Parramatta Farmers Markets every Saturday