Willoughby’s parks are already bursting with colour this spring, but one we look forward to most every year is the enchanting Wisteria Walk.
It’s hard to believe that one little pocket of a local playground has become quite famous across Instagram, but for a few years now, hundreds have flocked to our Muston Park to admire this gorgeous phenomenon.
The wooden archway tunnel, which is wrapped in green foliage reminiscent of vineyards, comes alive for a few weeks every spring when the purple wisteria flowers blossom. It not only smells beautiful, but it makes for the perfect spring photo.
A Little History On Our Wisteria Walk
In 1890 the park was named for William Thomas Muston, the former Mayor of Willoughby and European owner of the land.
Muston’s house ‘Penshurst’ stood in the middle of the 2.13 ha property. Over the following years it was sub-divided and sold off.
In 1926, the council purchased the land off Joseph Knight Smith, the owner of the local Willoughby Hotel, and created the public park we know and love.
The original ‘Penshurst’ entry gates were re-located and still stand in Willoughby Park today.
By 1938, cows were still grazing in the vast acreage, but it’s a few years later where things get more interesting for this green space.
History records show that Sole Brother’s Circus put on a show at Muston Park in 1939 and one of Australia’s most popular ever circuses, Wirth’s Circus stationed themselves there during wartime in the 1940s.
Muston Park is still home to variety of mature trees, including a Camphor laurel, Bunya Pines, a Moreton Bay Fig, and an Oak that may date back to the 1880s.
In 1952, plantations of Spotted and Lemon scented gum trees were created, named King George VI Memorial Grove in the north and Queen Elizabeth II Grove in the south near the children’s playground. It was at this time, our famous Wisteria Walkway was created.
Today, Muston Park is home to the much-loved rocket ship park, swings, sandpit, a creek, ducks, and plenty of space to throw out a picnic rug and enjoy the warm springtime sun.
While our beautiful Wisteria Walk is the focus of many a photoshoot, beautiful Muston Park as a whole has also been noticed by tv producers. Bridgerton fans may remember an Uber Eats commercial was filmed herewith actor Nicola Coughlan who plays Penelope Bridgerton.
So perhaps it’s no longer a hidden gem, but well worth a visit even outside of wisteria season!
Best time to visit
Spring. It usually blooms in mid-Sept and last a few weeks at most.
Nearby attractions and amenities
The rocket ship playground, paved paths for bikes and scooters, BBQs and toilets. And of course, you have all the nearby restaurants and cafes in Chatswood and Willoughby.
Tips for enjoying your visit
When the wisteria is in bloom, consider going early in the morning when it’s less crowded. Kids will love the playground and if it’s a sunny day, pack a picnic blanket.
You may like to walk, bike or take public transport as parking is limited. Please be respectful of local residents as well.
Wisteria Walk
📌Muston Park, 375-389 Penshurst Street, Chatswood.
Main image credit: @im_noi_im on Instagram.
