Brickpit Ring Walk: Sydney Olympic Park
There’s a giant ring floating 18.5 metres above an old quarry in Sydney Olympic Park, and most people drive straight past it. The Brickpit Ring Walk is a 550m elevated loop over a protected wetland. It’s free, it takes about 15 minutes, and it’s one of the most photogenic spots in Western Sydney.
Why it’s worth the trip
Start with the architecture. Designed by Durbach Block Architects and opened in 2005, the walkway picked up a 2006 National Trust Heritage Award and a feature at the Venice Biennale. The curved panels and open sky make it a dream for photos, especially at golden hour.
Then there’s the story. This was the State Brickworks from 1911 to 1988, where workers churned out around three billion bricks. Before the 2000 Olympics, endangered Green and Golden Bell Frogs were found in the flooded pit. The plan to build a venue here was scrapped on the spot.
As you walk, soundscapes play frog calls and recordings of the old pit workers. It’s a short loop, but it’s a surprisingly good one.
Getting there
The easiest way is by train. Olympic Park Station is a few hundred metres away, and the walk is signposted from there. You can also catch the ferry to Sydney Olympic Park Wharf, though it’s a longer walk.
Driving? Parking is off Marjorie Jackson Parkway, but conditions apply. Check the signs, especially on game or concert days.
Good to know
There are no toilets on the walk. The closest ones are at Olympic Park Station and the ferry wharf. Bikes aren’t allowed on the walkway, so bring a lock for the racks. Leave the dog at home, because it’s a wildlife protection area.
If you’re not great with heights, know that you’ll be 18.5m up the whole way round. Late afternoon is the best time to go, for softer light and more frog and bird noise.
The ring only takes about 15 minutes, so stack it with the Homebush Bay shipwrecks. A foreshore trail leads to five old wrecks rusting in the bay, and they’re great for photos.
Afterwards, grab a coffee or a drink at one of the cafes around Olympic Park. Or time your visit before a game or gig at the precinct and use it as your pre event walk.
Details
- Address: Marjorie Jackson Parkway, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127 (second entry off Australia Avenue)
- Open: Daily, sunrise to sunset. Free.
- The walk: 550m loop, 18.5m up, 10 to 20 minutes. No dogs or bikes.
- Website: sydneyolympicpark.com.au/parks-and-playgrounds/brickpit-ring-walk
