my photos

sydney harbour bridge

When Australia comes to mind, what is the first thing most people think of, for many of you most probably Sydney Harbour Bridge. The photo above was taken from the top of the Pylon Lookout, which is reached by a short walk along the pavement, adjacent to the highway, and a climb of 200 stairs, 87 metres above mean sea level. On the way up there are 3 levels of exhibits where you will discover the history and construction of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the men who built it, and the vision of JJC Bradfield, the chief engineer.



Whilst in Sydney, we just had to do the Sydney Harbour Bridge climb, it takes you along the upper span of the arch on catwalks and ladders all the way to the summit, 134 metres above Sydney Harbour. The photo above shows not us, but another group of 12, imagine 360 degree amazing views of Sydney, and really safe as you are clipped on and have to spend quite a while going through what they call bridge preparation.

We hadn't originally planned to do this on our first day in Sydney but somehow, don't ask me how, we stumbled upon the booking office and the starting position of the climb. I could tell by the look on J's face that he was really keen, and so was I, just as long as I could keep my legs from turning to jelly! We just decided on the spot to do it, so after marching up to the desk and asking for two tickets, we were on the next climb which was starting in about 20 minutes time, not much time for me to start feeling nervous!

Our party of 12 included a group of 4 from Argentina, a lad from Australia, a couple from Italy, a lad from Wales, us and other couple from England, of all ages.

The weather was cloudy and overcast, but a good day for the climb as not too hot. Luckily I had put sunblock on my face though as I would have come off looking like a beetroot, as you are up on the bridge for a fair time, as it was, the top of my hands had caught the sun and felt a bit sore for a day or so.

The guide who took us up was a really nice guy and really informative in telling us all about Sydney and he would answer any questions we put to him, also at certain points he would take your photo, either of the group or in pairs. You should have seen the two of us, J must have had the smallest suit they could find, and me, well the gusset was down to my knees, not at all flattering!

Well what can I say, I am so pleased we did it, it doesn't come cheap, but I can thoroughly recommend it, a great experience not to be missed, do it while you can, you may never get to visit Sydney again!