Make room for
a little wonder.

Opening times

All times are local to Canberra.

Cockington Green Gardens

09:30–17:00 · Every dayLast entry 16:15; closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day

Allow time to explore before closing. Your ticket shows your date and entry time.

Finding the gardens

Cockington Green is at Gold Creek Village in Nicholls, about ten minutes’ drive from the centre of Canberra.

• By car: free car and coach parking is available on site.
• By bus or light rail: take a rapid bus from the city to Belconnen, or the light rail to Gungahlin, then the route 24 bus to Federation Square.
• Before arrival: leave time for the journey and entry checks so you are ready for your booked slot.

Useful stops along the way

Facilities can change through the year. Visitors can usually expect:

• Toilets near the souvenir shop, a parents’ change room and accessible toilets near the café entrance.
• A picnic and playground area with free gas barbecues.
• Two gift shops, including the Rose Room with its miniatures and dolls’ house collection.
• The Rose Room coffee shop for light snacks, scones and drinks.

Wear comfortable shoes for the granite paths, and bring a hat on hot days. Ask staff about current arrangements when you arrive.

A visit that works for you

Cockington Green is fully accessible for wheelchairs, prams and walkers, with granite paths throughout and a separate accessible entrance beside the main ticket door. Wheelchairs and a mobility scooter can be hired for a small fee; book ahead.

• Check arrangements for your particular mobility or access needs before travelling.
• If you are bringing a stroller, confirm the current arrangements before arrival.
• Ask garden staff for assistance or directions during your visit.

Enjoy the gardens thoughtfully

• Stay on the pathways and never step, or lift children, over the rock borders onto the display; visitors who do are asked to leave.
• Children under 16 must be supervised by an adult at all times.
• Pets are not allowed in the display; genuine assistance dogs are welcome.
• Bikes, scooters, skateboards, wagons and roller skates are not allowed in the display.
• The gardens are smoke-free, with a designated outdoor smoking area.
• Drones may not be flown without written permission from the management; photos and videos are for personal use.

A little care protects the models and gardens for everyone.

Make time for a pause

The Rose Room coffee shop and kiosk serves pies, quiches, scones with jam and cream, tea and coffee, and you are welcome to bring your own food to the picnic area, with its free gas barbecues.

• Stop for breakfast, lunch, a hot drink or refreshments nearby.
• Leave room in your plans to sit down and enjoy the setting.
• Check opening hours and menus on the day; food and drinks are purchased separately.

Bring water with you, especially on warm days.

A few details worth planning

• Book ahead: choose the date, time and places you want to visit before making other plans.
• Keep your QR ticket ready: save it on your phone or bring a printed copy, with any proof needed for reduced admission.
• Start in the right place: follow your ticket’s instructions for entering the gardens.
• Dress for exploring: comfortable shoes, sun protection and a charged phone make the day easier.
• Leave space to linger: the gardens suggest at least an hour and a half, and more if you ride the steam train.