Surry Hills, an eclectic suburb just southeast of Sydney's Central Business District (CBD), is an appealing mix of historic charm and modern culture. Known for its vibrant arts scene, trendy cafes, top-notch eateries, stylish boutiques, and Prince Alfred Park, Surry Hills is Sydney’s cultural hotspot. Its close proximity to the city center makes it an excellent choice for anyone considering a move to Sydney.
Surry Hills Location and Atmosphere
Surry Hills is a vibrant and culturally rich suburb located a stone's throw from Sydney's bustling Central Business District (CBD). The vibe is pretty electric. There's a great mix of unique boutiques, art galleries, trendy cafes and restaurants everywhere.
You'll love the food scene. My boss at Garvan once called Surry Hills the food mecca of Sydney.
Surry Hills also has a strong sense of community with numerous local events, weekend markets, and parks like Prince Alfred Park offering a respite from the urban hustle.
Art lovers will appreciate the numerous galleries and artsy spots that contribute to the suburb's dynamic culture. If you're a professional working in the CBD, you'll benefit from the suburb's excellent connectivity. With options to travel by bus, train, bike, or even on foot, you can reach the city center in minutes.
Commuting to the CBD from Surry Hills
Commuting from Surry Hills to Sydney's Central Business District (CBD) is quite straightforward, you could even walk to work if you wanted to.
Public Transport
- Bus
For bus commuters, routes 301, 302, 303 and 304 run directly from Surry Hills, down Crown Street, then cross over and head to Sydney's CBD along Elizabeth Street. These buses will drop you off at various points within the CBD, including near Circular Quay, Wynyard, and along George Street. The journey usually takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. - Train
If you prefer to travel by train, Central Station in Surry Hills offers a direct line to anywhere in the city. The T1 North Shore & Western Line, T2 Inner West & Leppington Line, T3 Bankstown Line, and T8 Airport & South Line all serve this route. The journey from Central Station to Town Hall Station in the heart of the CBD takes approximately 5 minutes. Trains run every few minutes, making it a quick and efficient option. - Light Rail
If you prefer to travel by light rail, the Surry Hills light rail station offers a convenient route to Sydney's Central Business District (CBD). The L1 Dulwich Hill Line runs from the Surry Hills light rail station and has several stops before reaching its final destination at Central Station.
The journey from Surry Hills to Wynyard station typically takes around 20-30 minutes. Light rail services run frequently, usually every 10-15 minutes, making it a convenient option for regular commuters.
Cycling
Cycling from Surry Hills to Sydney's CBD takes around 15 to 20 minutes. Your time can vary based on your start point, the traffic, and how fast you cycle. The bike lanes are well-connected and help keep you moving.
The best path is along the bike lanes on Bourke Street. This leads to the bike-friendly Oxford Street into the CBD. Use the bike lanes for safety and watch out at crossroads, particularly on busy roads like Oxford Street. Always wear a helmet and use bike lights if it's dark. This route is a safe and direct way to the city center, with bike lanes for most of the trip.
Walking
Walking to the CBD typically takes about 25 to 30 minutes, depending on your speed and exact starting point in Surry Hills. You can take Elizabeth Street or Crown Street, both of which lead directly to the CBD. Be aware of traffic and use designated pedestrian crossings for safety.
Driving
The commute from Surry Hills to Sydney's CBD typically takes around 10 to 20 minutes by car, depending of course on traffic conditions. Parking in Sydney’s CBD can be very expensive and limited. If you will be commuting north of Sydney’s CBD then you will need to pay to toll to cross the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Public transportation is a better option not to mention less expensive, especially during peak hours. Driving is also the more expensive option commuting because petrol, or gas, for your car will add up quickly. Petrol in Sydney is quite high.
Surry Hills Rental Prices
Accommodation ranges from terrace houses, through to converted warehouse spaces and large apartment blocks. It's a bit of a mixed bag really – some homes are brand new, while some of the older buildings could do with a bit of work. Make sure you pay attention when attending house inspections, and if you do find anything wrong with the place after moving in, make a note of it in the condition report.
The median rental price per week in Surry Hills is around $650 per week for a one bedroom, $900 per week for a two bedroom and then jumps to $1200 per week for a three bedroom – making it slightly more affordable when compared with Bondi or Manly.
Child Care and Preschools in Surry Hills
Surry Hills offers a variety of child care centers, each providing unique programs and environments tailored to meet the needs of children at different stages of early learning.
Child Care Centres
Surry Hills Neighbourhood Centre
The Surry Hills Neighbourhood Centre operates a not-for-profit Long Day Care and Preschool that caters to all cultural backgrounds, religions, family incomes, and abilities. The award-winning facility, which is designed for sustainability, operates 50 weeks a year and is licensed for 25 children per session. All proceeds are reinvested into the Centre to improve facilities and provide ongoing training for child educators.
Surry Hills Neighbourhood Centre also has after school care, but at a different location with a different website. See below.
Only About Children Surry Hills
Only About Children focuses on creating quality experiences that help children develop school-ready skills. It offers programs for nursery, toddlers, and preschool-aged children with an emphasis on literacy, language, and STEM among other areas.
SDN Surry Hills
SDN Surry Hills provides education and care for children from 6 weeks to school age. The center has a long history, having opened its doors in 1918, and focuses on creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Kids Club Child Care Elizabeth Street Centre
Kids Club Elizabeth Street, near Central Train Station in Surry Hills, provides award-winning childcare. With reserved parking, a unique outdoor playscape, and experienced educators, we foster learning and development for children aged 6 weeks to 5 years.
Preschools
KU John J. Carroll Preschool
KU John J Carroll provides a play-based educational program tailored to children's individual interests and developmental stages. There are diverse activities intended to foster self-confidence and independence in learning.
Surry Hills Montessori Childcare & Preschool Centre
This child care and preschool is technically in Redfern, but pretty darn close to Surry Hills. It’s just south of Cleveland Street, along Bourke Street.
The preschool curriculum, combining the Montessori Approach and play-based learning theory, is designed for children aged three to six. It supports holistic growth and development, allowing children to explore, investigate, and develop their interests through child-led projects and Montessori-based learning experiences.
Surry Hills Early Learning Centre
Surry Hills Early Learning Centre provides a nurturing environment for early childhood development. The learning approach, guided by the Early Years Learning Framework, emphasizes play-based learning, communication, language, social and emotional development, and prepares children for formal schooling.
Before and After School Care, Vacation Care
The Girls and Boys Brigade
Child care at Girls and Boys Brigade includes homework assistance, educational activities, and physical play designed to foster social skills, physical health, and emotional well-being. This center also offers vacation care programs for school-aged children, known for its inclusive and engaging activities.
Surry Hills Neighbourhood Centre – Crown Street Out of School Hours Care (OSHC)
Crown Street Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) at Crown Street Public School provides after-school care for school-aged children. The service aims to assist families by providing a safe, inclusive environment and is staffed by qualified personnel. It offers a range of activities to support children's development. This service is exclusive to Crown Street Public School students, except for Vacation Care, which is open to all children.
Whoosh Care Surry Hills
All children enrolled at Bourke St Public School are welcome for morning and afternoon care. Children from all local schools are welcome for holiday care.
Activities include craft, cooking, group games, and science experiments. Parents and guardians are encouraged to share feedback and skills. Information about each child’s time at Whoosh Care is shared via the OWNA app, which can also be used to view the program, menu, and photos of the children’s activities.
Primary and High Schools in Surry Hills
Primary Schools
Crown Street Public School
Crown Street Public School is a heritage-listed public school with a strong focus on inclusive education and support for students. It provides a variety of learning experiences across different curriculums.
Bourke Street Public School
Bourke Street Public School is a primary school that provides education from kindergarten to Year 6. The school emphasizes a dynamic and inclusive learning environment. It offers a comprehensive educational program, complemented by a variety of extracurricular activities in sports and the arts.
Sydney Distance Education Primary School
This school provides distance education for students from kindergarten to Year 6 who cannot attend a regular school due to various reasons like medical conditions or extensive travel. It offers a flexible program designed for students unable to attend school in person, catering to their specific needs.
High Schools
Inner Sydney High School
Inner Sydney High School, combining heritage buildings with a modern high-rise tower, provides a comprehensive and inclusive education for up to 1,200 students from Year 7 to Year 11. The school features a variety of facilities designed to be accessible and adaptable to the ever-evolving curriculum.
These spaces, both engaging and supportive, emphasize a technology-rich setting that promotes mobility and flexibility for students and teachers. Five floors are dedicated to STEAM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics), complete with facilities for music, food technology, and visual arts. The school also offers various spaces for sporting and recreational activities, and shares the use of Prince Alfred Park.
Sydney Boys High School
This selective public high school for boys is known for its strong academic and sports programs. It is located on Cleveland Street, Surry Hills. Established in 1883, Sydney Boys High School is an academically selective high school that emphasizes a balanced education with strong academic programs and a rich array of sporting, cultural, and intellectual activities.
Sydney Girls High School
As the oldest state girls' school in New South Wales, founded in 1883, Sydney Girls High School is an academically selective school noted for its strong academic performance and extensive extracurricular offerings. A prestigious public, selective high school for girls, offering a rigorous academic curriculum. It is located on Anzac Parade, close to the Surry Hills boundary.
Surry Hills Parks and Recreation
Surry Hills has a variety of parks and recreational activities suitable for different interests, including dog-friendly areas, playgrounds, and weekend markets.
Prince Alfred Park
Located near Central Station, Prince Alfred Park is a fantastic, family-friendly and dog-friendly destination. Known for its spacious green areas that often host special events, the park also features an outdoor pool, sports courts, and playgrounds. It's a popular spot for both leisure and exercise, with fitness stations and a designated off-leash area for dogs. On the first Saturday of each month, the park hosts the Surry Hills Markets, offering a range of local crafts, vintage goods, and gourmet foods.
Off-Leash Dog Parks
Surry Hills, a vibrant suburb in Sydney known for its cafes and boutiques, is also a haven for dog lovers, offering several off-leash parks for dogs to exercise and play, fostering a sense of community among pet owners.
- Prince Alfred Dog Park is a well-loved, 24-hour, off-leash park. It's busiest between 4:30 pm and 6:00 pm and offers shady spots for owners and pets. However, dogs are restricted from sports courts, playgrounds, pool, and barbecue areas.
- Harmony Park, located at the intersection of Goulburn and Brisbane Streets, is a dog-friendly area with off-leash zones, shaded spaces, and benches. It's a popular spot for dog walking, especially during mornings and late afternoons, offering a cozy, community-like atmosphere.
- Frog Hollow Reserve is a dog-friendly park with historical significance. It provides open grassy areas and a secluded, natural setting for dogs, and includes a nearby playground, making it suitable for families with children and pets.
- James Hilder Reserve, located at the intersection of South Dowling Street and Cleveland Street, is a community park with an off-leash area for dogs and a playground, making it a popular spot for families and dog owners.
- Eddie Ward Park, located on Devonshire Street, offers a dedicated off-leash area, making it an excellent spot for dogs to play and interact. Although the park is small, it's seldom crowded, which contributes to a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for both dogs and their owners.
Playgrounds
Thinking of moving to Surry Hills with your family? Surry Hills isn’t just a trendy urban area where young hipsters hang out; it's also a family-friendly neighborhood with several unique playgrounds tailored to young children.
- Prince Alfred Park Playground, one of the largest in the area, offers a wide range of modern play equipment and open space. It features climbing nets, swings, slides, and a popular water play area. Along with additional amenities in the larger park like a swimming pool and sports facilities, it provides a comprehensive destination for family activities.
- Shannon Reserve Playground, centrally located near Crown Street, is a lively hub for families. It features modern equipment, including swings, slides, and climbing structures, suitable for young kids. Surrounded by ample seating and a beautifully landscaped area, it's a popular spot during community events and markets.
- Eddie Ward Park Playground, located near Devonshire Street, is a favorite among local families. Known for its playground and shaded areas, it provides a safe and engaging environment for kids. The park is equipped with a variety of play equipment, including swings, a slide, and a large climbing structure designed for older children.
- Ideal for toddlers and small children, Fanny Place Playground is a smaller, more contained space. It has toddler-friendly equipment like swing sets and soft play mats. The enclosed nature of this playground makes it safe for the youngest family members to play and explore.
- Edgely Reserve Playground is basically grass and swing set. There is a cool mural and a few trees, but that’s pretty much it. Good of a quick stop with young kids if you’re in the area.
Art and Entertainment in Surry Hills
Galleries and Studios
The Brett Whiteley Studio, once the workplace and home of one of Australia’s most celebrated artists, now serves as a museum and exhibition space showcasing his works. Families can enjoy exploring local art and participate in occasional workshops and guided tours.
Theatre and Performances
The Belvoir St Theatre is a cornerstone of Sydney’s performing arts scene, offering a mix of contemporary and classical performances. Many shows are suitable for older children and teenagers, making it a great spot for a family outing. They also run youth programs and workshops, which can be a fantastic opportunity for young ones interested in the arts.
Music and Live Events
The Clock Hotel, among other venues, offers live music sessions that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The suburb also hosts various music festivals and events throughout the year, featuring a mix of genres to cater to diverse musical tastes.
Outdoor Cinema
During the summer months, the nearby Prince Alfred Park hosts outdoor cinema events where families can enjoy classic films and recent blockbusters under the stars. It’s a perfect setting for a family picnic and a movie night.
Community Festivals
Surry Hills celebrates several festivals annually, such as the Surry Hills Festival which features activities for all ages, food stalls, and live music. It’s a great way for families to engage with the community and experience local culture.
Markets
The Surry Hills Markets are a wonderful destination for families to explore. Held at Shannon Reserve on the first Saturday of every month, these markets offer a range of children’s toys, books, handmade goods, and fashion. It’s not only a shopping experience but also a fun way to meet local artisans and creators.
Surry Hills Healthcare and Community Services
Medical Clinics and Centres
- Surry Hills Medical Centre (also known as Myhealth Surry Hills)
Shop 1, 2-12 Foveaux Street
General practice, women’s health, men’s health, immunizations, and more. - Crown Street Medical Centre
351 Crown Street
General practice, travel medicine, skin cancer checks, sexual health, and more. - Bourke Street Clinic
457 Bourke Street
General practice, mental health services, chronic disease management, and preventive health. - Elizabeth Street Medical Centre
16-20 Elizabeth Street
General practice, including preventive health, women’s and men’s health services.
Community Services
- Surry Hills Neighbourhood Centre
Level 1, 405 Crown Street
Services: Offers support and programs such as community events, outreach activities, and workshops aimed at enhancing community engagement and providing assistance to residents. - The Factory Community Centre
67 Raglan Street, Waterloo (near Surry Hills)
Provides a range of services including social support, educational programs, and recreational activities to engage and support the local community. - Surry Hills Library
405 Crown Street
Part of the City of Sydney Library network, this modern facility offers extensive collections of books, magazines, DVDs, and other media. It also provides community programs such as reading groups, children’s storytime sessions, and educational workshops.
Where to Eat in Surry Hills
Bills Surry Hills
Bills, renowned for its breakfast menu, transforms breakfast into an extraordinary experience. The Surry Hills location offers a bright, relaxed ambiance appreciated by locals and visitors alike. Committed to fresh ingredients and innovative dishes, Bills not only excels at breakfast but also offers an impressive lunch menu. Founder Bill Granger, famous for avocado toast and ricotta hotcakes, exemplifies the easy-going Australian lifestyle. However, it's not very pet-friendly, focusing more on food and a family-friendly environment.
- Must-Try: Ricotta hotcakes with honeycomb butter
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Dog-Friendly: No
Single O
Single O is a popular café in Surry Hills, known for its exceptional coffee and relaxed atmosphere. The café sources top-tier beans to offer a range of single-origin coffees and expert blends. With a focus on sustainability and innovation in coffee brewing, Single O also provides a variety of breakfast and lunch options designed to complement the coffee experience. The café's casual and lively atmosphere attracts a diverse crowd, including freelancers and friends catching up. The outdoor seating allows dogs, making Single O a pet-friendly establishment.
- Kid-Friendly: Yes.
- Dog-Friendly: Yes, with outdoor seating.
Bourke Street Bakery
Bourke Street Bakery, a Sydney institution, started as a humble store, gaining fame for its rustic breads, handmade pastries, and pies. Each item is meticulously crafted using quality ingredients. Their sausage rolls and tarts attract citywide attention. The welcoming atmosphere, pet-friendly outdoor area, and friendly staff enhance the joy of indulging in their well-made food.
- Must-Try: Pork and fennel sausage roll or a tart of the day
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Dog-Friendly: Yes, outside seating
Four Ate Five
Four Ate Five, a cozy café on Crown Street, offers a creative yet comforting menu. Notable dishes include the standout pulled pork sandwich and diverse vegetarian and vegan options. The café's welcoming interior and outdoor seating make it a hit with families and pet-owners. It's busy for weekend brunch, so early arrival or reservations are recommended.
- Must-Try: Pulled pork sandwich
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Dog-Friendly: Yes, outdoor seating
Chin Chin
Chin Chin, renowned for its South-East Asian cuisine, offers a vibrant dining experience in a heritage-listed building. The menu, featuring bold flavors and dishes for sharing like the notable kingfish sashimi and pad seuw, complements the lively atmosphere. Beyond food, the dynamic environment includes music, art, and design. The attentive staff welcome families, despite the bustling setting.
- Must-Try: Kingfish sashimi, pad seuw
- Kid-Friendly: Yes
- Dog-Friendly: No
Firedoor
Firedoor in Surry Hills provides a unique dining experience, emphasizing fire-cooked ingredients. The wood fuel infuses distinct flavors, and the daily-changing menu keeps offerings fresh. With a sophisticated atmosphere and an open kitchen, Firedoor is a must-visit destination for fine dining enthusiasts.
- Must-Try: Anything cooked over their wood-fired grill
- Kid-Friendly: Better suited for older kids due to the fine dining atmosphere
- Dog-Friendly: No
The Winery
The Winery, a quirky wine bar known for its extensive wine list, provides a vibrant garden setting for a relaxed evening. With vintage furnishings, lush plants, and a pet-friendly outdoor area, it's ideal for unwinding with wine and share plates. Its laid-back daytime atmosphere suits families, and the wine tastings and themed parties it hosts throughout the year enhance its social appeal.
- Must-Try: A glass of wine from their extensive list and share plates
- Kid-Friendly: Better in the daytime
- Dog-Friendly: Yes, in the outdoor area
Messina Gelato
Gelato Messina, a Sydney legend, is renowned for its uniquely-flavored, quality gelato. Each flavor is handmade using the finest ingredients, with creative weekly specials often inspired by seasons or whimsy. The vibrant Surry Hills shop attracts all ages and is pet-friendly, making it a must-visit for families and gelato lovers, offering treats to be enjoyed on-site or to go.
- Must-Try: Gelato – any flavor is a hit, but try their specials
- Kid-Friendly: Absolutely
- Dog-Friendly: Yes, outside
Porteno
Porteno, an Argentinian-inspired restaurant, offers slow-cooked barbecue meats in a vibrant atmosphere. The rustic interiors reflect South American hospitality and the robust flavors of the food. While it's an adult dining venue in the evenings, it welcomes families earlier. Attentive staff make guests feel part of the Porteno family, creating an ideal place for barbecue lovers.
- Must-Try: Grilled meats and seafood
- Kid-Friendly: Yes, during early dining hours
- Dog-Friendly: No
Surry Hills Retail Therapy
Surry Hills, Sydney, is a vibrant hub for boutique shopping, offering an eclectic mix of stores that cater to discerning shoppers looking for unique, high-quality products. The suburb’s main shopping streets, such as Crown Street, Bourke Street, and Devonshire Street, are lined with an array of shops ranging from vintage clothing stores and independent boutiques to artisan bakeries and bespoke furniture shops. These streets form the heart of Surry Hills' shopping district, where the charm of the area's heritage architecture adds to the overall shopping experience.
The Standard Store
The Standard Store on Crown Street is a fashionista’s haven, offering carefully selected pieces from global independent designers. With an emphasis on quality and individuality, the store brings a slice of international style to Sydney, making it a perfect spot for those looking to add unique elements to their wardrobe.
Title Music, Film and Books
Title, situated on Crown Street, is not your average bookstore or music shop. It specializes in a niche selection of vinyl records, unique films, and a broad range of books, especially focusing on art and design. This shop attracts collectors and enthusiasts alike, looking for rare finds and classic titles.
Mud Australia
Mud Australia on Bourke Street features beautifully crafted porcelain items, made locally in Sydney. The store is known for its vibrant, color-glazed pieces that combine functionality with artistic design. Mud’s products are a favorite among those who appreciate the beauty of handcrafted items and minimalistic aesthetics.
Zoo Emporium
Zoo Emporium is a vintage lover's paradise located on Crown Street. This shop is filled to the brim with eclectic and retro fashion items from various eras. Each piece in the store tells a story, making it a fun and exciting place to shop for unique wardrobe additions.
Pros and Cons of Living in Surry Hills
The Pros
Location and Accessibility: Surry Hills is just minutes away from Sydney's CBD, making it extremely convenient for commuting to work. The suburb is well-serviced by public transport, including buses and trains, which facilitates easy access to other parts of the city.
Pet-Friendly: Surry Hills is quite pet-friendly, with several parks offering off-leash areas and many cafes and eateries welcoming pets. This can be a big plus for families moving with pets.
Vibrant Community and Culture: Known for its artistic vibe, Surry Hills is home to many galleries, theatres, and live music venues. The community is active and diverse, hosting frequent markets and festivals that cater to a wide range of interests.
Dining and Shopping: The area boasts a robust culinary scene with a plethora of cafes, restaurants, and bars that offer a variety of international cuisines. Additionally, the local markets and boutique shops provide unique shopping experiences.
Parks and Recreation: Surry Hills features several parks and playgrounds, such as Prince Alfred Park and Shannon Reserve, offering green spaces for relaxation and family activities.
Creative Hub: Surry Hills is a hotspot for creative industries, including advertising, design, and the arts. This could offer networking opportunities and cultural enrichment that can be particularly appealing to individuals in creative professions or those who appreciate an artistic environment.
Architectural Charm: The area features a mix of Victorian terraces, modern apartments, and converted warehouses, offering a range of housing options that combine historical charm with modern amenities.
The Cons
Cost of Living: Similar to many popular urban areas, the cost of living in Surry Hills is high. Housing prices and rents tend to be steep, which might be a significant factor for a young family to consider.
Noise and Crowds: As a bustling suburb close to the city center, Surry Hills can get quite noisy, particularly on weekends and during special events. The lively streets and nightlife might be a drawback for families seeking peace and quiet.
Limited School Options: While there are educational facilities within and near Surry Hills, the options for primary and secondary education are not as extensive as in more residential suburbs. This might require commuting to neighboring areas for schooling.
Parking and Traffic: Finding parking can be challenging in Surry Hills, and traffic congestion can be a problem, especially during peak hours.
Small Living Spaces: Given the urban setting, many of the residential options in Surry Hills comprise apartments and smaller terraces. This could be a significant adjustment for families accustomed to larger living spaces.
Safety and Security: While generally safe, the high foot traffic and nightlife in Surry Hills can lead to increased noise and occasional petty crime, which might be concerning for families.
Limited Outdoor Play Areas: Although there are parks, the urban environment doesn't offer as much open space for children to play as more suburban areas might. This could limit outdoor activities for kids compared to what might be available in more residential neighborhoods.
Surry Hills is a dynamic and culturally diverse suburb that's ideal for both individuals and families. Its close proximity to Sydney's Central Business District makes commuting a breeze, you could even walk to work. The suburb boasts a variety of eateries, chic boutiques, and an active arts scene.
For families, there's a generous selection of child care centers, primary schools, and high schools. Additionally, Surry Hills has a range of recreational options, from parks and dog-friendly areas to playgrounds and art galleries.
Surry Hills an excellent choice to consider, but that’s what makes finding a place difficult because it’s so sought after. If you do find a place in Surry Hills move quickly.
