While the suburb's Aboriginal name is Moocooboola, meaning 'meeting of waters', the name Hunter's Hill is attributed to two very different sources. Most likely is that it is named after the captain of the HMS Sirius, John Hunter. But it is also said that it is named after 'Huntershill' a sprawling early property on the northern side of the harbour owned by the Scottish martyr Thomas Muir.

Hunters Hill was settled in 1835, with the famous Sydney merchant Mary Reiby one of the local pioneers. In the 1840's it was briefly infamous as the home of numerous bushrangers who had escaped nearby Cockatoo Island penal settlement by taking a swim across the river. However by the end of that decade the bushrangers had been quelled, and fine mansions were under construction from the local sandstone. It became a municipality in 1861, and the civic leaders closely and sensitively controlled its future development.

Today, many of the fine old homes remain, and Hunters Hill is a snapshot of the gracious past of Sydney.

Though a smattering of apartments and modern homes have slipped into the area, it is still dominated by older properties in superb condition. From the magnificent Georgian and Victorian mansions through to terraces, semis and early Federation bungalows, these properties reflect a pride of ownership and tender loving care.

In the local shopping centre you’ll find all your basic needs catered to. For more extensive shopping there is Gladesville with its supermarkets and specialty stores, nearby Balmain, and of course the CBD is only a short drive.

If you have the good fortune to own a waterfront property, then slipping out in the scull or sailing boat is probably the best way to exercise. Runners need to be rather keen because of the hilly nature of the suburb. Nearby are tennis and squash courts, and gyms.

Hunters Hill is 9 km west of the CBD and is well served by buses, or just lie back and enjoy a scenic ferry trip from either Hunters Hill or Woolwich.

The sandstone mansions of Hunters Hill - usually sited to get the most of the superb water views – stand out as the local landmarks.

Hunters Hill is the discreet home of many of Australia’s leading business figures.

Relaxing with a coffee and snack under an ancient tree is not terribly difficult to do in Hunters Hill. The locals also enjoy a couple of Sydney’s more pleasant bistros for those nights when cooking is just all too hard.

Famous private schools like Riverview and St Josephs are in the area, along with state schools and church operated schools close at hand.