Escape the skyscrapers of Melbourne’s central business district, and less than a mile northeast you’ll find Collingwood. Sharing a border with tourist favourite Fitzroy, it’s just as foodie and artsy – but still pleasantly rough around the edges.
Collingwood’s young, creative community is embracing the warehouses left behind by the suburb’s manufacturing past, creating amazing spaces to wine, dine and browse. Smith Street – the eclectic high street that Time Out voted “Coolest Street in the World 2021” – is well worth a stroll. There’s a great selection of bakeries, record stores, coffee shops and boutiques.
Venture into the side streets and you’ll find what makes Collingwood really special. Microbreweries, coffee roasters and restaurants are all hidden away behind rolltop doors. Throw in some fascinating architecture and street art, and you’ve got yourself a home base you’ll be dying to get back to.
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Do
Immerse Yourself in the Graffiti Culture
Collingwood, nestled in the heart of Melbourne, is a canvas for some of the most remarkable and vibrant street art. One must-see site is a captivating mural by Keith Haring, which has enlivened the neighbourhood since 1984, and the awe-inspiring tower block-sized piece by Adnate on Wellington St. Although these pieces are unmissable, to truly immerse yourself in the art, opt for a guided street art tour.
Explore the Diverse Abbotsford Convent
Encompassing 16 acres of land nearby the serene Yarra River, Abbotsford Convent now thrives as the most expansive multi-arts hub in Australia. This dynamic cultural district boasts galleries, cafes, unexpected pockets of green in the cityscape, including an urban farm! It also has a varied collection of artist studios and workshops that are scattered along the resonating corridors and verdant courtyards of the former convent.
Beer Tasting at Collingwood
Despite its compact size of 1.3sq km, Collingwood is a vibrant hub representing Melbourne's distinctive craft beer culture. The standout venue is Stomping Ground, a lively beer hall accompanied by a plethora of quaint warehouses that liven up the streets with their energy. Sample the unique local brews with The Collingwood Beer Trail, where you can experience the flavours at The Mill Brewery, Molly Rose Brewing Co, and the exquisite IPAs produed by Fixation Brewing Co.
Interestingly, Collingwood is named after Baron Collingwood, a British Naval lord. The neighbourhood is renowned not just for its beer, but also for its rich history and vibrant culture, making it a must-visit spot in Melbourne.
Eat
Treasures of Collingwood: South of Johnston
Our top recommendation for the sought-after Aussie brunch tradition is none other than the South of Johnston. Nestled on a serene boulevard, this relaxed warehouse hangout seamlessly blends mouth-watering breakfast dishes with a selection of cocktails and regional wines. Don't miss the delectable corn and zucchini fritters.
Unveiling: CIBI & The Plant Society
Juxtaposing an urban indoor garden (The Plant Society) and a spotless Japanese interior shop cum cafe (CIBI), stepping off the commonplace Keele Street into this expansive shared warehouse space gives you a uniquely captivating experience. From the kitchen of Meg and Zenta Tanaka's at CIBI comes a menu replete with cherished Japanese recipes passed down generations - do treat yourself to "Mum’s Scrambled Eggs".
Culinary Experiences in Rupert Street
An enchanting spot for a special dinner, be it for your holiday romance or a treat for yourself, is the tucked-away gem of Rupert on Rupert. This establishment is conveniently situated across from the renowned Australian grounds of Allpress Coffee. Immerse yourself in a culinary journey with bite-sized platters boasting Mediterranean inspirations, utilizing the freshest local ingredients (sample menus also available). The complementing classic cocktails and richly flavoured Pinot Noir, a speciality of Victorian vineyards, enhance the overall dining experience.
Dine With a View at Easey’s
Imagine indulging in one of Melbourne's top-rated burgers while seated inside a rooftop train carriage? This unique experience, paired with a breathtaking view of Melbourne's skyline, awaits you at Easey’s. Complete the evening with a trip across the road for carefully crafted cocktails at the chic Paradise Alley.
The acclaimed train carriage housing Easey's was a result of a creative repurposing project, enhancing its appeal with its unique charm. Moreover, Rupert on Rupert is renowned for supporting local farmers, sourcing its ingredients from regional producers, aiming to propagate sustainability and promote local businesses.
Drink
Experience Aunty Peg’s
The love for coffee among Melbourne natives is undeniable and if you share this sentiment, Aunty Peg’s is a must-visit for you. This masquerades as a coffee cellar door where you get to establish an intimate connection with the barista, who shares their knowledge on crafting the ideal brew. That's not all - you can carry home a bag of souvenir coffee beans, the perfect antidote to the jetlag post your long-distance flight.
Chill at Hope St Radio
Hope St Radio is a refreshing hub of community engagement situated in Collingwood Yards, formerly a technical college, now sporting a fresh look. Treat yourself to a choice selection of wines during sundown in the wonderfully serene beer garden boasting lush greenery. Live DJ music adorns the atmosphere, broadcasted directly to the visitors and on the venue's namesake radio station.
The Renowned Grace Darling Hotel
Experience the warmth of a traditional Australian "hotel"– Melbourne's own version of a pub - by unravelling the hospitality of The Grace Darling. Enjoy the pleasing sight of trams gently carving their course on Smith Street, as you indulge in a chilled pint complimented by a selection of local wines. To make the most of your visit, peek into their Instagram page, and find the perfect timing to experience a session of live music.
The Hidden Gem – Above Board
Embrace the thrill of discovering the palettically incredible 'Above Board', a svelte cocktail bar nestled in an unlikely alley. Above Board offers an intimate experience with seating taking up to only 16 guests by the bar. With classics on offer, the meticulously designed cocktail list updates with a limited yet bold compilation of 25 drinks, promising an adventurous run for your taste buds. Be not deterred by its subtle marketing, for the experience is anything but.
Shop
Stroll along Gertrude Street
Gertrude Street runs between Smith St and Brunswick St, the parallel high streets of Collingwood and Fitzroy respectively. Check out some independent boutiques, including Edgeley and HAVN, or pop into Aesop (yes, that Aesop), whose global HQ is just around the corner.
The Hub General Store
The Hub General Store is one to get lost in. Its products are a fab showcase of some of Australia’s finest makers, creators and craftspeople. Stationery, books, homewares, clothing – and a space that will leave you feeling very zen.
Blackhearts and Sparrows
Get hold of some of Australia’s best wines and spirits at independent bottle shop Blackhearts & Sparrows. Knowledgeable staff will guide you through the best sips to sample from right across the country.
Stay
Napier Quarter Guesthouse
Treat yourself to a few nights of minimalist and understated private luxury by booking the lone room at this wine-bar-meets-guesthouse. With views over the tree-lined streets, you can order freshly pressed coffee or local wine to your room from your hosts below.
Doubles from £250, room only; napierquarter.com.au/guesthouse
But if you desire a different flavour of Melbourne's hospitality, you might want to book The Dingley Hotel Melbourne. It's a short trip from the city center but offers a unique experience in tranquility and comfort away from the city's bustle.
Lyf Collingwood
Newly opened Lyf Collingwood makes a great base for a city break. Modern, colourful and fairly compact, the affordable rooms have all the mod-cons. Plus, the location is ideal, away from the bustle of Smith St, and next door to South of Johnston when you’re ready for that brunch!
If you're looking for more options in Melbourne or want to compare choices, check out tophotels.com. They offer a handy overview of the city's accommodations, letting you find the most suitable option for your needs and budget.
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Doubles from £95, room only; discoverasr.com/en/lyf/australia/lyf-collingwood-melbourne