Kensington

Calm leafy modern day Kensington has come a long way since the 1980’s when it began undergoing significant urban renewal and gentrification separating Kensington from its grittier industrial past. Previously home to livestock saleyards, an abattoir, factories and an army ordinance these unpleasant industrial activities have now been moved on and in some cases tastefully renovated into modern townhouse complexes such as the Kensington Banks townhouse development.

Kensington’s tree-lined streets are home to many renovated Victorian cottages both single- and double-fronted, new apartment blocks and some public housing. A number of parks and open spaces are available for residents to enjoy. J.J. Holland is Kensington major park complete with a skate park, picnic and barbecue areas, a colourful children’s playground, sport facilities and recreation centre. However, a stone’s throw or short tram ride from Kensington’s border is Melbourne’s largest park, Royal Park.

Public transport is well sorted in Kensington with three train station to choose from: Kensington, South Kensington and Macaulay stations all of which are on different lines, a quick ride on the #57 tram route from Flemington Road will take you into the city in a matter of minutes and two bus routes 402 and 404 services the suburb.

Shopping is on smaller scale here, centred around Bellair Street and Macaulay Road, a small collection of great cafes, bars and restaurants can be found. For a major supermarket, the Newmarket Plaza lies on Kensington’s northern border in Flemington.

No longer one of Melbourne’s best kept secrets, Kensington has been steadily diversifying and growing rapidly for the past 10-15 years. For a suburb just 4km from the city Kensington’s quiet village vibe is one to consider.