Imagine the scene, you’ve got 24 hours only in, what is arguably the ‘coolest’ place in Sydney; Newtown. An eclectic mix and wonderful humans, who are 100% authentic and unapologetically-so, breeding a culture of inclusivity and community.
Social 101 had the honour of being invited on a 24 hour whistle-stop tour of the urban suburb, allowing us to soak up the atmosphere, learn a little bit about the culture and heritage, all whilst enjoying the local cuisine and colourful community.
So sit back, relax and take notes, as this is our definitive guide for the must-see and the ‘need to know’ whilst in the suburb, which, if it was a colour, would be a rainbow of glitter (IMO).
For your foodie fix: Camperdown Commons
Just a five minute walk from The Collectionist, Camperdown Commons is a reinvigorated community hub that provides much needed space for locals to relax, learn and belong. There are multiple venues within the Commons including Spritz Bar, Acre Eatery Garden Terrace & Dining Room and The Container café. It is a proud initiative by Canterbury-Hurlstone Park RSL Club in collaboration with Pocket City Farms with the support of Inner West Council.
The deets: Camperdown Commons, 31a Mallett St, Camperdown
For a night of sparkles and entertainment: Drag N Dine in Priscillas with Ruby & Yaz!
Following a fabulous facelift, the institution that is The Imperial is bigger and brighter than ever. Head here for a sit down degustation dinner whilst being dazzled by the most incredible queens you’ve ever seen! Atmosphere in spades and entertainment that never ends – if you’re looking for a fun night out surrounded by wonderful humans – this has got you covered
The deets: 35 Erskineville Road, Erskineville NSW, Australia 2043
Tel: 02 9516 1766
For your local culture immersive fix – Culture Scouts
Culture Scouts Guide and accomplished street artist, Craig Bunker, creates bespoke tours of Newtown’s unique street art, galleries, eateries (Black Star Pastry is a definite!), vintage shops and even a visit to Camperdown Cemetery which has some interesting stories to tell!
IMAGE CREDIT: James Horan; Destination NSW
You learn more than you can imagine, all whilst taking in the vibrant street art that decorates Newtown’s urban canvas with ease and style.
We couldn’t recommend his more highly, definitely give this a go! You’ll recognise the backdrop to Coldplay’s ‘Sky full of Stars’ video in its true raw glory, and learn so much more about the stories behind the stars.
For lovers of rides and ramen – Rising Sun Workshop
IMAGE CREDIT: Destination NSW
A café and a bike workshop share space – it could only work in Newtown! This institution went from crowdfunding to pop-up to permanent, and boasts the best ramen in Newtown!
IMAGE CREDIT: Destination NSW
Cheap digs in central location – Stop off at The Urban Hotel Newtown
This sister hotel to The Collectionist and home to one of the precinct’s most magnificent pieces of street art by Fintan Magee. The Urban Newtown was formerly the Newtown RSL – a mecca for Live music in its day. Paying homage to this history is a unique installation by green space creative artist, Daz Bern, that runs through the atrium of the hotel incorporating musical instruments entwined in an indoor garden. The Urban Newtown is part of the Collectic Hotels Group.
For brew and beats – Young Henry’s Brewery is the one!
A true Newtown success story. Championing low impact brewing, a big part of Young Henry’s brewing philosophy is built on keeping things local and reducing environmental impact.
IMAGE CREDIT: Destination NSW
Most of their beer is sold within a few suburbs of the brewery and they encourage the use of refillable glass growlers which can be used over and over again, reducing waste.
Quirky accommodation with a unique twist – The Collectionist Hotel
We implore you to ‘Choose Different’ at The Collectionist Hotel – 39 individually designed rooms from four leading design teams, creating a tapestry of eclectic hotel rooms.
Guests are invited to peruse the rooms on check-in and make their choice of room for the night, turning the traditional check-in on its head. The Collectionist is part of the Collectic Hotels Group.
The Collectionist Hotel, 9-13 Marsden Street, Camperdown, Ph: 0435 105 586
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