Back in the early days of the colony of NSW, a large tract of land was granted in 1793 to Major George Johnston, who, as legend has it was the first white man to set foot on Australian soil. Johnston family, and it is this land that these days is the core of Annandale. In 1799, on what is now Parramatta Road, he built his home “Annandale House” named after his birthplace, Annan in Scotland. The land passed from family hands and in 1877 was subdivided, and the suburb of Annandale developed as an affluent area.

The arrival of the 20th century saw the slow change from wealthy residential suburb into a working class area with light to medium industry, spurred on by its proximity to both the city and the ports. This decline was perversely acted to save many of the fine houses that dot Annandale. In the last two decades, change has come again, with the old houses being restored, and the industrial buildings being converted into chic inner city living spaces.

Its grand old Victorian homes are the most prominent feature of the local design. However, amongst them some classic rows of 2 storey terraces, and many semi detached cottages dating from the early 20th century. Most of these have been renovated to a high standard in either modern or traditional style.

In more recent times, old industrial buildings have been converted to airy, light and sleekly modern apartments and lofts.

Along with its family run corner stores, Annandale has 2 shopping areas. Along Parramatta Road, are many of Sydney’s better furnishing stores, along with good food, wine, and all the basic services.

Booth Street is home village style shopping with supermarkets, pub, delicatessen, cafes and all the usual domestic needs. Five minutes by car is
Leichhardt with its two fantastic shopping areas.

The undulating streets are perfect for runners and walkers. Leichhardt and Newtown are the suburbs bordering Annandale and both are well stocked with gyms and swimming pools.

Annandale is 5km from the CBD and is well served by buses. The nearest light rail station is ten minutes walk away in the northern end of Annandale and is called Rozelle Bay.

If you head north along Johnston Street toward Rozelle Bay, you’ll come upon a fine row of gothic inspired houses called the “witches caps”, named for the intriguing roof styles.

Sir Henry Parkes, Father of Federation and former Premier of NSW lived most of his later life here.

In the Parramatta Road and Johnston Street shopping precincts are cafés, and pubs serving food. These include The Victoria Hotel and North Annandale Hotel, The Empire Hotel and The Annandale Hotel also host some of Sydneys best Rock and Blues bands. "Vicini" and "da Gianni Trattoria" on Booth Street are leading Sydney restaurants, and cafés such as Cafe on Johnston, Bar Sirocco and Le Comptoire vie for the brisk trade amongst loyal locals.

There are three primary schools and two Child Care centres in Annandale, with high schools in adjacent Leichhardt and Glebe. Within a few minutes drive are church operated schools of various denominations and the prestigious Newington College.