Defence of Sydney Tour

The Harbour Trust presents the Defence of Sydney Tour – a journey into the military history of North Fort.

This 90-minute, volunteer-run tour is an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the men and women who served at North Fort, a former army base at North Head Sanctuary, Manly that once protected Sydney Harbour.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you will marvel at heritage gun emplacements and descend into the 200-metre-long military tunnel complex. Finally, our guide will demystify an underground bunker once shrouded in secrecy: The Plotting Room.

Quick overview

• Cost: $11 per adult, $8 per child (12 & under) and $8 per senior/concession holder.


• Days/Times: Every Sunday at 10:30am, 11:30am, 1pm, 2pm. Duration of tour is 1 hour and 45 mins.


• Meeting point: North Head Sanctuary Visitor Centre, off North Head Scenic Drive, North Fort.

Important Info

• Content warning: Although this is an all-ages tour, people under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Further, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples are advised that the tour contains stories (and may contain images and/or visuals) of deceased people.


• Site conditions: This tour includes steep stairs and underground tunnels and some uneven surfaces, and it is not suitable for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. A moderate level of fitness and mobility is required. You must comply with all directions of the Guides, Rangers and Security.


• What to bring: Suitable walking shoes, a sunhat and wet weather gear (if needed).


• Weather conditions: Tours will proceed regardless of weather conditions except in the event of extreme weather. Participants will be notified via email if the tour is cancelled and a full refund of the ticket price will be made. 

Plan ahead

For information about getting to North Fort, including by public transport, see: North Head Sanctuary – Visitor Overview. This webpage also contains information on visitor parking and public facilities.

See also: Harbour Trust Visitor Destinations (overview) and Harbour Trust Tours Program.