- Q: Where is Brunswick located?
- A: Brunswick is an inner city suburb of Melbourne, 4 kilometers from the central business district.
- Q: When was Brunswick established?
- A: The boundaries of Brunswick were drawn in 1830, with ten allotments mapped out either side of Sydney Road and sold for auction.
- Q: What was Brunswick known for in the 1850s?
- A: During the Gold Rush of the 1850s, Brunswick served as a refreshment stop for diggers.
- Q: What was Brunswick's role in the early 20th century?
- A: In the early 20th century, Brunswick became a textile manufacturing hub.
- Q: Who settled in Brunswick after World War II?
- A: After World War II, many Italian and Greek immigrants settled in Brunswick.
- Q: What is Brunswick like today?
- A: Today, Brunswick is an eclectic, bohemian mix of cultures, students from the nearby University of Melbourne, and artists.
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1. Brunswick City Baths
Part of the Active Moreland aquatic and leisure center in Brunswick is housed in a building that was built in 1914. It is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register. The fitness complex has a 50 meter heated outdoor swimming pool and a 20 meter heated pool indoors. The cardio room, with stationary bicycles, treadmills and rowing machines, overlooks the indoor pool. There is also a full gym and an outdoor training zone. For children, there is a splash pool and play area. Fitness classes, personal training sessions and child minding services are on offer.
Brunswick Baths, 14 Dawson Street, Brunswick, Phone: 93-81-18-40
2. Howler
Opposite the Brunswick City Baths, in a car park, near the train tracks is an urban forest retreat. Howler bar and restaurant is situated in a converted wool shed. The huge open plan, double-story space is decorated primarily with greenery which contrasts superbly with the exposed brick. The beer list is eclectic and the menu is simple. Small plates and burgers are standard fare. There is a dedicated performance area and an excellent sound system, which are used for theater productions, stand up comedy, live music evenings and DJ sessions. Weekly events include Trivia Tuesdays, Jazz Sundays and Nerd Nites.
7 - 11 Dawson Street Brunswick, Phone: 03-90-77-55-72
3. Round & Round Records
This small shop on Sydney Road, sells new and second-hand vinyl records. The owner, Jeff Wybrow, sells 7 inch, 10 inch and long-playing records in all music genres but specializes in krautrock, Italian prog, psych and jazz. He stocks classic titles and the more obscure ones. A hand-written note, reviewing the music and sharing facts about the artist, is attached to each record. The custom-made wooden racks and colorful artwork create the appropriate ambiance. The Round & Round Records shop is open 7 days a week.
556 Sydney Rd (near cnr of Blyth St), Brunswick VIC 3056, Phone:+61-3-93-80-50-95
4. Savour Chocolate & Patisserie School
Savour is a school and retail outlet. They hold regular confectionery classes, using the highest quality ingredients, the best equipment and the latest techniques. They cater for all skill levels. Introductory classes help participants to understand the making of chocolate from the 'bean to the bar' and how to start their own business. More advanced classes include how to make pralines, gateaux, petit fours and macaroons. International guest chocolatiers and pastry chefs join Savour's own staff to provide the training. Online classes are also available. The online shop sells ingredients, equipment and gift packages for special occasions or everyday consumption.
22 Wilson Avenue, Brunswick Vic 3056, Phone: +61-3-93-80-97-77
5. CERES Community Environment Park
CERES is an acronym for the Center for Education and Research in Environmental Strategies. It is a non-profit, community business operating on a 4.5 ha site, close to the Merri Creek, which was once a desolate wasteland after being used as a quarry and landfill dump. A number of urban agriculture projects and social enterprises operate from the premises. There is a community kitchen, a bushfood nursery, a subscription-based fair food exchange and an organic online supermarket. The center runs education and training workshops and has an outreach to schools in Melbourne and the surrounding rural areas.
C/o Roberts and Stewart Streets, Brunswick East, Phone: +61-3-93-89-01-00
6. Tom Phat
This restaurant that serves authentic south east Asian cuisine was established in 2004, before Sydney Road was trendy. Brunswick has changed substantially since then but Tom Phat has remained popular. Their ethos is to support local business by working with suppliers from the area. The bar and eatery has a modern interior with a vibrant atmosphere. The concrete walls, huge windows looking onto Sydney Road, and the oriental accents all add to the ambiance. They serve breakfast which is unusual for Asian restaurants. Their signature cocktails also come in a non-alcoholic 'mocktail' form. Vegetarians will find a range of options on the menu.
182-184 Sydney Road, Brunswick, Victoria 3056, Phone: 03-93-81-23-74
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (September-November) – Mild temperatures and blooming flowers, perfect for exploring street art and cafes.
Artel Apartments – A stylish and modern stay in the heart of Brunswick.
Walk along Sydney Road – Discover Brunswick’s vibrant café scene, vintage shops, and live music venues.
Summer (December-February) – Warm and lively, ideal for outdoor dining and local festivals.
Brunswick Tower Hotel – A budget-friendly stay with easy access to public transport.
Relax at CERES Community Environment Park – Enjoy nature, local markets, and sustainable living workshops.
Fall (March-May) – Cool and colorful, great for exploring markets and cultural spots.
Best Western Melbourne City – A well-located hotel close to Brunswick’s attractions.
Visit the Brunswick Music Festival – Experience live performances and street entertainment.
Winter (June-August) – Cool and cozy, perfect for enjoying Brunswick’s coffee culture and indoor entertainment.
The Larwill Studio – A boutique hotel with artistic charm.
Explore Howler – A unique venue offering live music, performances, and a cozy beer garden.
Plan Your Trip
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