Northern Suburbs
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Melbourne’s inner north stands out as a dynamic and culturally rich enclave, boasting several iconic landmarks that contribute to the city’s vibrant character. Renowned for the bustling Italian enclave along Lygon Street, the area is famed by the prestigious University of Melbourne, consistently ranked as one of Australia’s top universities.
This district is a hub of major tourist attractions, featuring notable sites such as the Melbourne Museum, the Royal Exhibition Building, and the Melbourne Zoo. Green spaces are abundant, with expansive areas like the vast Royal Park to the north, the Carlton Gardens, and the popular Princes Park.
Bounded by Brunswick Road to the north, Victoria Street to the south, Nicholson Street to the east, and the CityLink freeway to the west, Melbourne’s inner north encapsulates a diverse and thriving community surrounded by a mix of cultural, educational, and recreational landmarks.
Overview
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Fitzroy
Fitzroy, an inner suburb situated 3km north-east of Melbourne’s CBD. Originally planned as Melbourne’s inaugural suburb in 1839, Fitzroy gained municipal status in 1858, marking one of the city’s early areas with such recognition. Despite being Melbourne’s smallest and most densely populated area outside the CBD, covering just 100 ha, Fitzroy North is renowned as a cultural hub. Its vibrant attributes include a thriving live music scene and captivating street art.
Historically associated with the working class, Fitzroy has experienced multiple phases of urban renewal and gentrification since the 1980s. Today, it accommodates diverse socio-economic groups, boasting both some of Melbourne’s highest rents and one of its largest public housing complexes.
Fitzroy built-up environment showcases a diverse architectural landscape, featuring some of the finest examples of Victorian-era architecture in Melbourne. Much of the suburb is designated as a historic preservation precinct, with numerous individual buildings and streetscapes protected by Heritage Overlays. Recent changes in Fitzroy are aligned with the Melbourne 2030 Metropolitan Strategy, outlining redevelopment plans for designated Activity centres such as Brunswick Street and nearby Smith Street.
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Thornbury
Thornbury, an inner suburb situated 7km north-east of Melbourne’s CBD. Thornbury boasts a vibrant and diverse community, encompassing a blend of young professionals, families, and retirees. In recent years, the suburb has undergone significant gentrification, earning a reputation for its trendy cafes, bars, and restaurants.
The locality features several parks and green spaces, with the exquisite Darebin Parklands standing out as a popular destination for picnics and leisurely walks. Adding to its cultural scene, Thornbury is home to the Thornbury Theatre, a venue that hosts a diverse array of live performances and events.
Public transport is a strong suit in Thornbury, benefiting residents with excellent tram and train services that facilitate easy connectivity to the city and neighbouring suburbs. Additionally, the presence of high-quality schools in the area enhances Thornbury’s appeal, making it a sought-after choice for families seeking a well-rounded community.
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Coburg
Coburg, an inner suburb situated 8km north of Melbourne’s CBD. An inner-city haven for singles, couples, professionals, families and retirees. Coburg’s enchanting streets are adorned with charming period homes dating back to the 1900s, showcasing a rich architectural tapestry that includes California bungalows and double-fronted Victorians. The neighbourhood’s character is further enhanced by the presence of quirky retro-style houses, imparting a unique charm to its leafy avenues. Among these, The Grove stands out as Coburg’s most prestigious enclave. In addition to these historical gems, modernity finds its expression in newly developed estates that feature contemporary houses, units, and apartments.
Coburg offers a diverse array of properties, ensuring easy access to essential amenities such as reputable schools, shops, eateries, transportation options, and medical facilities, notably the John Fawkner Private Hospital situated on Moreland Road.
The rich cultural tapestry of Coburg is vividly reflected in its vibrant community events. Street and music festivals, along with trendy cafes, lively restaurants, clubs, markets, and arcades, contribute to the neighbourhood’s dynamic atmosphere. This cultural diversity not only enhances the overall vibrancy of Coburg but also provides residents with a wide range of entertainment and culinary experiences, making it a dynamic and inclusive place to call home.