Eddie Ward Park in Surry Hills is an unfenced City of Sydney park on the corner of Marlborough and Devonshire Streets, with open lawn, tall eucalypts and a painted mural pavilion. Dogs can be off-leash 24 Hours, 7 Days. There’s a water station for dogs, poo bag dispensers, benches and public toilets, and it’s busy with locals most days.
On This Page
Eddie Ward Park: At a Glance
- The Vibe: A busy inner-city lawn with eucalypts, a brick path, a colourful mural pavilion and Surry Hills terraces all round. Dogs gather in small groups most days.
- Best For: Confident city dogs with reliable recall that like meeting other dogs.
- Off-Leash Hours: 24 Hours, 7 Days.
- Fencing: Unfenced. The lawn opens onto paths and busy streets, so keep an eye on where your dog is heading.
- Parking: Street parking only, and it’s tight and mostly timed. Check the signs, or walk if you live nearby.
Dog Park Features & Amenities
For the Dogs
- Off-Leash at All Times: The City of Sydney allows dogs off-leash here at any hour, apart from the prohibited areas below. Dogs are still your responsibility, so keep them under control.
- Open Lawn: A wide patch of mown grass with fallen gum leaves, big enough for a game of fetch. The lawn is shared with other park users, and the middle is open to the sun.
- Shade: Tall eucalyptus trees line the edges of the lawn and the pavilion area so there’s shade on a hot day.
- Drinking Water: There’s a water station for dogs on site. Carry a bowl as a backup.
- Poo Bags: Poo bag dispensers are available on site. Carry a spare in case one is empty.
- Dog-Prohibited Zones: Dogs aren’t allowed in the playgrounds.
For the Humans
- Public Toilets: There are public toilets in the park.
- Seating: Benches sit along the lawn and near the pavilion, so you can watch the dogs from the edge.
- Playgrounds & BBQ: The wider park has two playgrounds (one enclosed for toddlers), a skate bowl and barbecues. The City of Sydney has closed the barbecue area near Belvoir Street for now, so use the ones nearest Devonshire Street and check the council page before you go.
- Lighting: None on-site. Plan on daylight and bring a torch if you’re out late.
Insider Tip: Devonshire Street runs along the edge of the park. If your dog chases bikes or doesn’t come back first time, keep the lead on until you’re well into the lawn, away from the kerb and the paths. Stay clear of the playgrounds when you walk in.
Dog-Friendly Cafes Nearby
Four Ate Five (485 Crown Street) is dog-friendly, with outdoor tables, shade umbrellas, and a water bowl for dogs. Reuben Hills (61 Albion Street) also welcomes dogs on its patio and is known for its coffee roastery and South American menu.
The Final Verdict
Eddie Ward Park is a busy local park where Surry Hills dogs meet on the lawn. It’s off-leash 24 Hours, 7 Days, with a water station for dogs, poo bag dispensers, benches and toilets. It’s not a big field and there’s no fence, so it suits sociable dogs with reliable recall. Keep them clear of Devonshire Street and the playgrounds.
For more official information, visit the City of Sydney Council website.
Eddie Ward Park: FAQ
Q: Is Eddie Ward Park fully fenced?
A: No. The lawn is unfenced and sits beside paths and city streets, so your dog needs reliable recall.
Q: Is there water and are there poo bags at Eddie Ward Park?
A: Yes. There’s a water station for dogs on site, and poo bag dispensers are available.
Q: Are there public toilets available?
A: Yes, there are public toilets in the park.
Q: Can my dog be off-leash at any time?
A: Yes, the City of Sydney allows off-leash at all times, except in the playgrounds and skate bowl area, where dogs aren’t allowed.
Q: Is Eddie Ward Park lit at night?
A: Not confirmed on-site, so plan on daylight visits.
Q: Are there dog-friendly cafes near Eddie Ward Park?
A: Yes. Four Ate Five on Crown Street and Reuben Hills on Albion Street both welcome dogs at their outdoor tables.
