Over the years Northcote has become a rather hip area with the requisite cafes, bars and boutiques, and to the fortunes of planning that afforded Rucker's Hill its unparalleled city views.
Whether you're cruising the Westgarth strip, heading up Ruckers Hill to High Street, or occupying a patch of St Georges Road, you'll notice a decidedly arty vibe around Northcote. Check out the latest exhibitions, catch a flick at Westgarth Cinema, or enjoy an entertaining night of high profile or emerging bands at the Northcote Social Club as well as anything-goes acts at Open Studio and 303.
Northcote has plenty of trendy stores and fashion outlets in High Street Northcote, which is home to an interesting and eclectic mix of retailers, bars, cafes and restaurants. And you'll find pretty much anything you need at the Northcote Plaza which has a variety of popular retailers.
Looking for a bite to eat? You've pretty much got every meal covered in Northcote, and the chances of a good night out with some top tunes are high. It's a great place to go out for an evening of entertainment, a lazy brunch or lunch.
To keep you fit and healthy, Northcote has a variety of parks and recreational areas. All Nations Park in Northcote has skating facilities, as well as basketball courts, play equipment and picnic facilities. There's plenty of open space and a large native garden, giving special attention to plants indigenous to the area, and a series of ponds. Batman Park is one of the oldest parks in Northcote, easily accessible by public transport, it has many established trees and shady areas to sit and enjoy a picnic. There's Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre, Northcote Swimming & Lifesaving Club, Northcote Bowls Club, Northcote United Cricket Club, Dennis Cricket club, smashed Indoor Cricket Team, which is the longest running team at Northcote Indoor Sports. If you're after a round of golf there's the Northcote Golf Club on Normanby Avenue, in the neighbouring suburb of Thornbury. There's also plenty of great areas to for a bike ride around Northcote.
Northcote has five railway stations along two lines. The Mernda lineserves Merri station, Northcote station and Croxton station. The Hurstbridge line serves Westgarth station and Dennis station. Trams operate along St Georges Road (tram route 11) and Northcote is also served by bus routes along Separation Street, Westgarth Street and Victoria Road.
Schooling options in Northcote are many, including:
- Pender's Grove Primary School
- Wales Street Primary School
- Westgarth Primary School
- Northcote Primary School
- Santa Maria College
- Northcote High School
- St. Josephs Primary School
Sources/references: Wikipedia, Visit Melbourne