Ilbery Reserve

Tucked alongside the bowls club in Neutral Bay, this little reserve punches above its weight for a neighbourhood playground. The musical equipment is what sets it apart — not something you see at every local park — and the toddler crowd genuinely loves it. There’s a seesaw, climbing structure, slides, and swings covering the bases, but the whole place has a relaxed, unhurried feel that’s hard to find this close to the city. Shade trees keep things bearable in summer, benches mean parents can actually sit down, and the open grass field gives kids room to burn off whatever energy’s left. It’s quiet, it’s shady, and locals know to come here on a weekday when it’s basically all yours.