Newcastle CBD, Hunter Region — New South Wales

Newcastle Central Business District (CBD) is located near the mouth of the Hunter River, on its southern banks. It bordered by the wharf on its north side, and both sides by the suburbs of Newcastle East and Newcastle West.

This district is home to several commercial establishments, such as shops, restaurants, and groceries. However, it is also where numerous historic structures are located.

The Newcastle Railway Station, located in the corner of Scott and Watt Streets, is composed of five buildings all constructed according to Victorian style. This station has been operational since the late 19th century and stands witness of the area’s long and interesting past. Nearby is the Queen’s Wharf, which has a tower as its most prominent structure. A walkway connects the wharf to the city mall, frequented by families and groups of friends for the various entertainments it offers.

Visitors and locals can also take the Stockton Ferry for a 15 minute ride across the river. The wharf is also the departure point for cruises aboard the William IV steamship, a replica of the first Australian-made vessel of its kind. The cruise departs every third Sunday of the month, every 11 am and 2 pm.

Along Hunter Street are three prominent government buildings built in the late 19th century. The Public Works Building was constructed in 1860 and right next to it is the former police station, built in 1859, and now houses the John Paynter Gallery. On the corner of Bolton Street is the post office, constructed in Edwardian Classical style.

Rose Cottage, along Bolton Street, built in 1828 and is considered as Newcastle’s oldest structure that is still well-maintained and well-preserved up to the present. Also on this street, in the intersection of Church Street, is the Grand Hotel that was constructed in 1891. At the end of Bolton Street is the imposing courthouse, dominated by an archway and several pillars of justice.

On Newcomen Street is the Claremont building, part of the Newcastle Club and is considered as one of the area’s oldest structure, built circa 1840.

 Admirers of beautiful Victorian terrace homes should take leisurely strolls along Church Street, where there are several of these structures still lovingly preserved by its owners. Visitors shouldn’t also miss Minumbah, another Victorian house located on the corner of Church and Brown Streets and constructed in 1890. Then there’s the Marlborough House and the Woodlands, mansions built in the 19th century and both attesting to the wealth of prominent families in the past.

For a bit of outdoor recreation, the CBD has its own Civic Park, where two war memorials are located, as well as the Captain Cook Memorial Fountain. The park is also famous for its nocturnal visitors, bats.

Opportunities for water-based recreation are enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike at the nearby Newcastle Beach, a favorite destination for swimming, surfing, fishing, and family picnics.

Visitors to Newcastle CBD will not go wanting for places to stay, with the numerous accommodations found within and in the surrounding areas. These establishments range from affordable, like the Newcastle Beach YHA on King Street, and the luxurious Crowne Plaza Newcastle located on the corner of Merewether Street and Wharf Road.