Paddington

Lifestyle

Steeped in history, Paddington has evolved from its bohemian roots into a vibrant arts and fashion hub. Only a 30-minute walk to the CBD, locals love to work and play hard.

Adversely affected by the Great Depression, Paddington was slated for complete redevelopment but was saved by the influx of Europeans who saw potential in the area. Paddington now has conservation status assuring this alluring neighbourhood will retain its old world charm.

Although close to the sprawling shopping centre of Bondi Junction, Paddington’s shopping district is well patronised with high-end retailers such as Parlour X, a multi-brand boutique, holding centre stage in a converted sandstone church along Oxford Street.

Art galleries highlight emerging and established artists, whilst Paddington’s two art house cinemas are popular haunts for film buffs. The next generation of home-grown artists attend the renowned UNSW Art and Design College and the Australian Centre of Photography, both of which are located in Paddington.

At the heart of Paddington is stately Juniper Hall, which was home to Robert Cooper, founder of what is now fondly referred to as ‘Paddo’, and the sprawling grounds of the military facility, Victoria Barracks.

The village clusters of Five Ways and The Intersection Paddington along Glenmore Road are favourites amongst locals. Another local favourite is the Reservoir Gardens that sits below street level along Oxford Street, providing a peaceful retreat and a place to reflect on the history, style and fashion that oozes from the hustle and bustle above.

Area

Well-heeled shoppers are in their element with boutique and designer brands along William Street, Oxford Street and Five Ways. The Intersection Paddington (corner of Glenmore Road and Oxford Street) has a well earned reputation for being the Australian Fashion Precinct with a curated selection of Australian designers.

The strip of boutique shops and corner pubs along William Street is reminiscent of England. It is home to the much-loved William Street Festival, which pays tribute to the local fashion scene every October.

The popular weekly Paddington Markets have been gracing the grounds of the Uniting Church on Oxford Street since 1973 with 150 stalls dedicated to Australian fashion, art, jewellery, homewares and food.

Paddington is at the forefront of Sydney’s art scene with galleries hosting exhibitions that showcase emerging and established artists from Australia and abroad.

Known as the People’s Park, Centennial Park is 189 hectares of expansive green space is one of Sydney’s gems. It’s the place to relax with family and friends for a picnic, or get the heart rate pumping by cycling, jogging or riding horses. From December to March, the Moonlight Cinema shows advance screenings, new release movies and cult films on the lawns of the Belvedere Amphitheatre in the park