Discovering South Melbourne
When you’re wandering South Melbourne’s wide streets, admiring its distinctly Victorian architecture, it couldn’t be clearer that you’re in one of Melbourne’s oldest suburban areas. But, don’t be fooled by the history – South Melbourne is a great example of where we want to go, not just evidence of where we’ve been.
Following European settlement, the South Melbourne area – originally called Emerald Hill – quickly became popular with Melbourne’s middle class. This reputation remained until the 1950s, when the suburb experienced a bit of a decline due to Melbourne’s rapid expansion. However, the 1980s saw significant gentrification of the area, turning it into the highly desirable urban enclave we see today.
Sitting just under 3km from the centre of the CBD, it is a comfortable walk from South Melbourne into the city. To make commuting even easier, the suburb is also serviced by four tram lines (routes 1, 12, 58, and 96).
South Melbourne is most widely known for its iconic market, which brings thousands of people to the area every week. With a wide range of stores selling everything from fresh produce to luxury homewares and designer fashions, the market is the heart of South Melbourne. More than just a place to get gourmet groceries, the market brings the community together, with the cafes that line its Cecil St and Coventry St boundaries packed with locals catching up over some delicious baked goods or sunset paella.
This bespoke approach to retailing extends beyond the market, into the surrounding streets. Clarendon St is the suburb’s main shopping strip and features a great range of everyday services, interspersed with smaller, niche stores. A range of unique boutiques can also be found in the cobblestone laneways and cross streets surrounding Clarendon St, (like the perennially quirky Pomegranate).
As South Melbourne is home to many of the city’s best cafes and patisseries, one of the hardest decisions for residents is where to go for brunch. From St. Ali’s amazing coffee, to Dead Man Espresso’s famous Reuben sandwiches, and Bibelot’s sweet treats; you’re sure to find something you love.
Similarly, locals are spoilt for choice when it comes to where to head for their evening meal. From the multi-award winning Lume, the rustic charm of Park Street Pasta & Wine and the gastropub finery of O’Connells Hotel, there is somewhere for every taste and occasion.
Even choosing a place for a quiet drink can be tough, with a wide selection of pubs (the 1930’s charm of the Railway Hotel, never fails to impress) and wine bars (Magnum + Queen Wines is always great).
It’s not all lavish laziness in South Melbourne, though. If you’re looking to burn off a few calories, you can head to South Melbourne Beach for a swim or one of the nearby parks (Albert Park, Kings Domain, the Tan – the list goes on!) for a run. Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (Albert Park) is also just next door, catering to all of your active needs.
If you’re interested in moving to South Melbourne, you’ll notice the market is dominated by grand Victorian terraces, with a small – but increasing – number of luxury modern apartments also available. Demand for rental properties in historic South Melbourne remains average.
Your Home Hunter loves the easiness of life in South Melbourne. So, if you’re looking for an active social scene in a quiet suburban community, right on the city’s doorstep, South Melbourne might be the place for you.