Hickson Steps is a sandstone staircase built in 1912-1914 connecting Lower Fort Street at the top with the wharves of Hickson Road at the bottom. At times also known as Lower Fort Street Steps, Hickson Steps was initially built as part of the modernising and re-development of Walsh Bay during that period, significantly improving pedestrian access to the waterfront for workers.
Today, the stairs sit in the shadow of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, connecting The Rocks precinct with Walsh Bay — providing pedestrian access to a mix of residential, entertainment and hospitality venues along the waterfront, including Pier One Hotel, Wharf Theatre, Sydney Dance Company, Roslyn Packer Theatre, as well as many restaurants and cafes.
![Hickson Steps - Stairtrooper](https://i0.wp.com/www.stairtrooper.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/S1-106.jpg?resize=800%2C534&ssl=1)
Design features include carved sandstone steps and cast iron palisade fencing and railings. A particular highlight is the expansive sandstone cutting alongside one side of the staircase, with local houses perched high above the stairs.
Views from the staircase include Sydney Harbour, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Pier One, and the northern end of the Walsh Bay precinct.
Hickson Steps and Hickson Road are named after Robert R. P. Hickson, the Chairman of the Sydney Harbour Trust between 1901-1912.