Newtown (Sydney, Australia)
Newtown: Sydney’s Most Free-Spirited Suburb
A little over two miles southwest of Sydney CBD, Newtown is a friendly, bohemian neighbourhood known for vintage shops, craft breweries, and exceptionally good coffee. It’s the place to go if you want to catch an arthouse film, see your new favourite band in a historic venue, or simply save more of your travel budget for pints and tickets. Newtown offers a cool, more affordable alternative to most of the accommodation you’ll find near The Rocks or Darling Harbour, and yet it is well linked to these exciting parts of the city by Sydney’s excellent public transportation system.
Cool Shops, Live Shows, and Artsy Films
Browsing the fine vintage, thrift, and boutique shops along King Street is one of the locals’ favourite things to do with a free afternoon in Newtown. Some of the most popular clothing stores include The Collective Ensemble, which offers a well-curated selection of pre-loved clothes for both men and women, and Cream on King, your best bet for a vintage t-shirt or unique accessory. Pick up your next great read at Better Read than Dead, or that hard-to-find LP at Egg Records. King Street is also home to The Dendy, one of Sydney’s finest arthouse theatres, and the “I have a dream” mural, part of Newtown’s hip street art scene. The Enmore Theatre is a must if you love live music; this much-loved venue opened in 1908, and hosts world-famous bands as well as emerging artists.
They Really Know How to Brew It
Newtown is a hot spot for both coffee and craft beer. Located in a stylishly converted warehouse, Brewtown is a local favourite in the former category; here you can enjoy the heady aroma of coffee beans roasting on site while queuing up for your morning cup or sitting down to a leisurely brunch. Be sure to pick up some cronuts at the bakery upstairs before you leave. If you’re looking to fuel up for a day of treasure hunting on King Street, try VargaBar Espresso or Cuckoo Callay, two of many excellent neighbourhood cafes. When it’s time to unwind, you’ll be just as spoiled for choice; Newtown is home to several excellent pubs. Standouts include Young Henrys, a stylish craft brewery with a tasting bar, and The Courthouse Hotel, which features a leafy beer garden with a relaxed atmosphere. And if you don’t care for beer, how about a fine cocktail at Earl’s Juke Joint, a Louisiana-inspired saloon? Or maybe you would like to choose from the 700 whiskeys at Websters Bar? Newtown has a place for every taste.
Places to Sleep in Newtown
While this Sydney suburb does not feature nearly as many hotels as, say, The Rocks or the CBD, there are a few very good options here. One of the most popular is The Urban Newtown; this boutique hotel offers stylish suites with full kitchens, right in the heart of the action. At the south end of King Street, you’ll find the Sydney Park Hotel, an equally trendy option with an on-site pub. Backpackers will also find a handful of hostels to choose from, many of which feature a free breakfast or outdoor pool.
Contact
Newtown, 2042,