Most of Abbotsford is surrounded by water with Hen and Chicken Bay to its west and Parramatta River to its north and east. Neighbouring suburbs Wareemba and Chiswick complete its borders to the east and south.

When white settlement first came to the area Abbotsford was originally part of Five Dock Farm, the estate that made up the farm was subdivided in 1836. It was this 10 hectares of land that was then named Abbotsford by its new owner, Arthur Renwick. Historians believe that Renwick’s inspiration was in reference to Sir Walter Scott who lived at Abbotsford House, Scotland when he wrote his famous Waverley novels. Renwick also went on to build his own Abbotsford House on the grounds of the estate and it remained into the family before selling it due to financial hardship. Eventually it was bought by Nestle in the early 1900’s and Abbotsford House became the administrative building for their chocolate manufacturing business which was built on the grounds.

For the trivia buffs Abbotsford has two interesting historical facts. One of Australia’s best known poets, Henry Lawson, died in Abbotsford in 1922. Not in Abbotsford House as urban legend may have it but in a guest house along Great North Road. Also, Abbotsford is home to Sydney Rowing Club which is the oldest rowing club in New South Wales having been in operation since 1870 and in its current location since 1874.