A Day Out in Merrylands West
- The WEST Journal
- 6 hours ago
- 2 min read
Once a thriving bricking making area in the 1970’s, the suburb of Merrylands West has since replaced the clay extraction pits and kilns for one of its most treasured features, the tranquil 12-hectare Central Gardens Nature Reserve. Though modest in size, it is a suburb on Dharug land rich in charm, shaped by its strong sense of community and vibrant multicultural cuisine.
Just a short bus ride from Merrylands Station, Merrylands West makes for a rewarding day out. Begin your day at Mina Bakery & Sons, their popular “Cafferino” coffee bar is a great place to start, and you may find it hard to resist a warm, freshly made manoush, the aroma is so very tempting. A visit to Ablas Patisserie Merrylands is our tasty next stop. Specialising in Lebanese sweets, their selection is impressive, with many items made fresh that very morning. Take your pick from baklava, knefeh, maamoul, znood and more. Delicious! Eat them now or treat yourself later while exploring.
From here, it’s a short stroll to Central Gardens Nature Reserve. Opened in 1976, it has become the heart of the neighbourhood, where stepping inside the gardens feels like you are entering an urban oasis. Walking the pathways, it’s a tranquil, peaceful environment, passing shady trees, picnic areas, flowing streams, kids' playgrounds, locals enjoying the day, and plenty of birdlife including nesting Ibises above you.
As you wander, an unexpected sound is one of a waterfall, getting louder as you approach. Following the accessible boardwalk, you’re greeted by two flowing waterfalls, a wonderful sight. There’s plenty of time to take it all in, then meander throughout Central Gardens stopping to enjoy a lakeside seat or two. Be sure to visit the next surprise, the Wildlife Exhibits, a small, FREE animal park home to emus, wallabies, kangaroos and even nocturnal animals. Central Gardens is a great example of the unexpected to be found for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re visiting solo, with family or with friends.
For lunch, take your pick from shawarma at Sofram Adana, pub classics at Coolibah Hotel or fabulous Middle Eastern cuisine at Al Turath Restaurant. You can’t help but love the themed décor, hanging mosaic lamps and colourful walls made even more enjoyable by the friendly service. WEST recommends the popular BBQ plate with a mixture of coal-grilled kebabs, dips, zesty tabouli, kibbeh and Lebanese bread, you can expect phenomenal flavours on your plate!
Merrylands West is a suburb that invites you to slow down and feel connected, to nature, to food, and to the people who shape the neighbourhood. With its green spaces and rich local cuisine, it’s well worth exploring on your next Western Sydney day out. Explore with West.
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