Discovering Camberwell
It’s easy to think of Camberwell, Melbourne as just another part of the city’s ‘boring’ inner east – an area dominated by grand estates and multi-generational wealth. However, while the suburb remains one of Melbourne’s most expensive, there’s so much more to Camberwell than initially meets the eye.
Deriving its name from its iconic junction – a meeting of three roads that reminded an early settler of the south London district with the same name – Camberwell is a fascinating intersection of tradition and modernity. Initially developed as agricultural land, the suburb has grown into one of the most well-established areas of Melbourne’s affluent east, with virtually no industrial land, and commercial activity limited to specific precincts.
Located approximately 9km east of the CBD, Camberwell is extremely well serviced by public transport. In addition to five train stations – Camberwell, East Camberwell, Hartwell, Riversdale, and Willison; spread across the Alamein, Belgrave, and Lilydale lines – there is also three tram lines (routes 70, 72 and 75) connecting the area to the city and outer eastern suburbs. As Camberwell also has some of Melbourne’s busiest suburban streets – like Burke Rd in the suburb’s west – these transport options are particularly valuable.
Like much of the inner east, Camberwell is known for its tree-lined streets and large open spaces. With no less than eight major parks and playgrounds in the area, it’s unsurprising that walking is a favourite pastime of many locals. This, combined with the suburb’s hilly landscape, give Camberwell a quieter, more relaxed vibe than many of its elite neighbours.
If you prefer a slightly faster pace, head to Burke Rd – Camberwell’s lux and lively shopping strip. Whether it’s grabbing a coffee at Best Mates Cafe, indulging in a cocktail and a few share plates at Elyros Restaurant & Wine Bar, or scouring the racks at OSKA; you’re sure to find something to suit your taste and mood. Be sure to also check out the iconic Camberwell Market, held every Sunday, which has a distinctly vintage and retro flair.
Further setting the suburb apart from its more traditional neighbours, Camberwell is home to an impressive selection of schools including Siena College and Camberwell Girls Grammar, means the area can be the perfect place to live and play.
Camberwell remains particularly popular with older and established families, this reinforces the suburb’s prestigiousness, however, some locals do note a lack of diversity.
While the area is known for its large blocks and tastefully updated period homes, if you’re interested in moving to Camberwell, you’ll also find a selection of contemporary townhouses and boutique apartment complexes. As it is one of the larger suburbs in Melbourne’s inner east, Camberwell is often referred to as a series of neighbourhoods. The Prospect Hill Road precinct is the oldest and most desirable of these neighbourhoods.
Your Home Hunter loves the refinement and prestigiousness of Camberwell. So, if you want the best of everything and are happy to pay for the luxury, Camberwell might be the place for you.