Carlingford, A Suburb of Delightful Surprises

Carlingford is a suburb full of delight and surprises, from a park with roaring animal sculptures, to bushland walking trails and a wide variety of international cuisine. On Dharug land, it was once an orchard-growing area, with farms gradually subdivided after World War II to create the vibrant neighbourhood of today.

Balaka Falls, Carlingford

John Wearn Reserve, Carlingford

Located north of the Parramatta River, Carlingford is easily accessed via Pennant Hills Road, Epping train station or the Carlingford Light Rail. The best way to start is of course with coffee, with Rossi’s Fresh Grocer on North Rocks Road a top local choice.

Rossi's Fresh Grocer, Carlingford

Rossi's Fresh Grocer, Carlingford

Rossi's Fresh Grocer, Carlingford

Rossi's Fresh Grocer, Carlingford

Serving Grand’Cru Coffee, it’s a lovely spot to feel the neighbourhood buzz and watch the world go by. Surrounded by other local shops, you can explore each one, David’s Cakes has cream-filled lamingtons and berry cheesecakes made fresh that morning, and Communion Cafe is a gem, offering great food, more great coffee and warm hospitality.

David's Cakes, Carlingford

Communion Cafe, Carlingford

Communion Cafe, Carlingford

David's Cakes, Carlingford

For some fun family time, John Wearn Reserve’s skate park and unique safari themed playground are brilliant, kids are sure to get a kick out of the roaring lion and trumpeting elephant sounds while playing.

John Wearn Reserve, Carlingford

John Wearn Reserve, Carlingford

John Wearn Reserve, Carlingford

For a serene nature walk, head to the Balaka Falls Circuit in Hunts Creek Reserve. This is a secluded nature retreat within a suburban setting, where aromatic bushland scents fill the air, and you’re rewarded with a small waterfall known as Balaka Falls, a highlight of a visit to Carlingford.

Balaka Falls Circuit in Hunts Creek Reserve, Carlingford

Balaka Falls Circuit in Hunts Creek Reserve, Carlingford

Balaka Falls Circuit in Hunts Creek Reserve, Carlingford

When lunchtime rolls around, you’re spoilt for choice. Carlingford Village, opened in the 1970s, has an international food court with a variety of cuisine as well as old school charm in droves. Discover Cantonese flavours at Carlingford Damee and Fortune Palace Seafood Restaurant, noodles at Handmade Noodle Bar, Chinese specialties at Great Food and Happy Kitchen, as well as hotpot, teppanyaki and more, there’s so much to choose from.

Delicious Snack Dessert Bar, Carlingford Village

Carlingford Village

Carlingford Damee, Carlingford Village

Handmade Noodle Bar, Carlingford Village

Tea Shop, Carlingford Village

Carlingford Village Grocery Store

For a real treat, Lung Kee Dim Sum on Woodstock Road, is a serving of dim sim heaven. Family owned, they have been crafting traditional Hong Kong dim sim specialties in the area since 2006. Weekends are where you can try their fresh, hot goodies such as dumplings, wontons, baos, siu mai, spring rolls, desserts and more. WEST can’t go past the golden lava sesame balls and bouncy red bean mochi. This is one of those treasures you stumble across, and one not to miss.

Lung Kee Dim Sum, Carlingford

Lung Kee Dim Sum, Carlingford

Lung Kee Dim Sum, Carlingford

Lung Kee Dim Sum, Carlingford

WEST has only just scratched the surface of Carlingford’s delights, from parks and walking tracks to world flavours in its food scene, there’s plenty to love. Leafy, green and beautiful. Plan a day out to Carlingford and discover all that this charming suburb has to offer. Explore with West.