Our Neighbourhood

ANNANDALE

Stretching from the tranquil waters of Blackwattle Bay in the north to the bustling thoroughfare that is Parramatta Road in the south, Annandale is one of the inner west’s most sought-after communities. Divided by Johnston Street, one of Sydney’s most impressive avenues, Annandale borders Glebe, Leichhardt, Stanmore, Lilyfield, Camperdown and Forest Lodge. Approximately 5km west of the city centre, Annandale is set within the jurisdiction of the Inner West Council.

Named after Major George Johnston who arrived on the First Fleet, Johnston was granted 100 acres of land that would rest across modern day Annandale and Stanmore. Initially known as Johnston’s Bush, Johnston renamed his property after his birthplace Annan in Scotland. The estate was sold to the industrialist and mason John Young in 1877.

Young is responsible for the creation of the ‘Witches’ Houses’, the landmark grand Victorian residences that grace the northern end of Johnston Street. Built for his daughters, Young supposedly built the grandest residence – the gothic revival ‘The Abbey’ – as a gift to his estranged wife as an apology for a supposed affair, yet neither he nor she ever lived in the home. An icon that has held locals in thrall for generations with tales of the supernatural and the bizarre, ‘The Abbey’ remains one of Australia’s most celebrated private homes.

Known for its wide leafy streets and tranquil village feel, Annandale’s main shopping precinct centres around the intersection of Booth Street and Johnston Street. With a selection of boutique shops, cafes and providores, Annandale North Public School is seen as one of the inner wests finest educational facilities. Annandale is serviced by a light rail stop and has easy access to the City West Link Motorway, as well as direct access to the harbourside Bicentennial Park – one of Sydney’s finest.