We will be your tour guide through one of Melbourne's iconic shopping districts

Shopping Hub

Church Street is home to a variety of boutiques, specialty shops, and everyday essentials; perfect for both locals and visitors.

Café Culture

It's one of Melbourne's favourite destinations for eating and socialising, with everything from bustling restaurants to cosy coffee shops.

Close to the Beach

Just minutes from Brighton’s iconic bathing boxes, Church Street blends shopping and dining with seaside charm.

Community Vibe

It’s a lively destination that hosts events, markets and festivals, bringing people together year round.

Plan Your Visit to Church Street

Church Street is easy to reach and explore, whether you’re coming from the CBD or nearby suburbs. With great transport links and parking options, it’s a stress free destination for locals and visitors alike.

GETTING HERE

It's accessible by train (Middle Brighton Station), buses, and car.

WHEN TO VISIT

Mornings are relaxed, weekends are lively and evenings are vibrant.

PARKING & ACCESS

Plenty of street parking spaces and nearby car parks are available.

LOCAL SERVICES

Banks, chemists and essentials are all on or near the street.

Connections Church Street, where modern design meets old architecture, combines Brighton's past and present. The area's ongoing character and sense of community are reflected in the mix of boutique stores, modern cafés and attractive period buildings, that line the street.
Connections From lively markets to seasonal celebrations, Church Street comes alive with community activities all year round. These events unite locals and tourists, fostering a vibrant atmosphere that enhances the street's inviting feel.
Connections Beyond dining and shopping, Church Street is a regular aspect of Brighton life. Fitness facilities, wellness studios and neighbourhood services, make it a popular destination for locals as well as tourists.
Connections Located near Middle Brighton Station and just minutes from the beach, Church Street is perfectly placed to connect you with everything Brighton has to offer. Whether you arrive by train, bus, or car, the street is always within easy reach.
35+ heritage listed buildings
Over 50,000 visitors each year
25+ cafes and restaurants
10 minutes’ walk from Brighton Beach

Historic Facts

Church Street has been at the heart of Brighton for over a century, evolving from a residential precinct into a vibrant commercial and cultural hub. The area's rich history, architectural elegance and community spirit, are all reflected in its streets.

ST ANDREW'S GRAVEYARD ESTABLISHED

With the establishment of St Andrew's Graveyard, one of Victoria's oldest surviving churchyards, the region became a magnet for Brighton settlers early on.

1843

'CALABRIA' AT 167 CHURCH STREET

The house known as 'Calabria' was built, notable for its asymmetrical facade and two-storey cast-iron verandas with Gothic motifs in the lacework.

1886

BRIGHTON HISTORICAL SOCIETY FOUNDED

The Brighton Historical Society was established to preserve and share the area's heritage, collecting documents, photos, artefacts, and other items connected to Church Street's history.

1963

EARLY DEVELOPMENT OF CHURCH STREET

Church Street, one of the original streets of Dendy's Brighton Estate, evolved into a residential area with tasteful residences and villas.

Late 1880s

CONSTRUCTION OF 161 CHURCH STREET

Melbourne stationer Alfred Harston constructed 161 Church Street, a remarkable example of Victorian architecture with its unusual tower with a 'widow's walk'.

1885

COMMERCIAL HUB EMERGENCE

Church Street is now a busy business district with stores, cafés, and services catering to Brighton's expanding residential area.

1986

Visitors Experiences

Liam O’Connor

Liam O’Connor

Sydney, NSW

“Spending the afternoon at Brighton Foreshore Gardens with my family was so relaxing. The gardens and bay view’s made it a peaceful escape from the city.”

Sophia Chen

Sophia Chen

Brisbane, QLD

“The Brighton Bathing Boxes are such a unique attraction! I enjoyed learning about their history and snapping plenty of photos for my travel album.”

Jack Thompson

Jack Thompson

Adelaide, SA

“Fishing off Middle Brighton Pier was a highlight of my visit. I even caught a little snapper while taking in the views of Port Phillip Bay.”

Isabella Rossi

Isabella Rossi

Perth, WA

“It was exciting to sail with Brighton Yacht Club. I will always remember the pleasure of feeling the breeze as I watched the boats fly across the water.”

Noah Patel

Noah Patel

Hobart, TAS

“Dendy Street Beach was the perfect spot to unwind. Its quiet charm and gentle waves made it ideal for a relaxing swim away from the crowds.”

mobile image template

Church Street FAQs

Best time to visit?

Spring and summer (September to February) are the ideal seasons to visit because of the nice weather for shopping, wandering, and relaxing on the local beaches. Early mornings or late afternoons are perfect for avoiding crowds.

Absolutely! Church Street has a variety of family friendly parks, shops, and cafés. Nearby attractions like Brighton Beach and the Foreshore Gardens are also ideal for kids.

There are plenty of pet friendly stores and cafes on Church Street, and dogs on leashes are welcome in the surrounding parks such Brighton Foreshore Gardens and portions of the beach. It’s always best to check individual venues for specific pet policies.

Indeed! Church Street has a large range, of dining alternatives to suit all preferences and price ranges, from informal cafés and takeout to fine dining establishments.

Nearby Attractions

There is more to explore on Church Street than just dining and shopping. These neighbouring attractions which include picturesque beaches and quaint gardens, make a trip to Brighton genuinely unforgettable. Find the must see locations that will make your trip even more charming.

Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach

Known for its vibrant bathing boxes, this famous beach is ideal for leisurely walks down the shore, picnics, and photography.

Brighton Bathing Boxes

Brighton Bathing Boxes

Just along the beach, these historic and vibrant beach huts are a must see for visitors and offer a great backdrop for photos.

Dendy Street Beach

Dendy Street Beach

For people who want to enjoy the water or sunset without the crowds, this is a more sedate option to Brighton Beach.

Brighton Foreshore Gardens

Brighton Foreshore Gardens

Beautiful landscaped gardens along the coast, perfect for strolling, enjoying public art, and taking in views of Port Phillip Bay.

Brighton Yacht Club

Brighton Yacht Club

With its gorgeous bay views, and chances to see local regattas, it's a gathering place for sailing enthusiasts.

Middle Brighton Pier

Middle Brighton Pier

A popular spot for walking, fishing, and taking in expansive views of Port Phillip Bay, particularly around dawn or dusk.

Elsternwick Park

Elsternwick Park

It is a quiet grassy area that is close to Church Street and perfect for jogging, picnics, and just taking in the scenery.

Church Street Art Trail

Church Street Art Trail

A vibrant trail featuring murals and public art along the street, perfect for a leisurely walk while enjoying local creativity and photography opportunities.

Brighton Historical Society

Brighton Historical Society

It’s a small but fascinating museum where visitors can explore local history and heritage, including photographs, artifacts and archives.

MUST TRY FOODS

Church Street is a foodie's paradise, offering a wide range of cafés, bakeries and restaurants to satisfy every craving. Taste the regional flavours that contribute to this street's uniqueness by exploring our must try selections.

Flat White Coffee

A classic Melbourne style café must; many local cafés on Church Street serve excellent brews.

Sourdough Toast with Avocado

A staple of the local brunch culture; often topped with feta, seeds, or poached eggs.

Gourmet Burgers

Several pubs and eateries serve creative burgers using local ingredients

Artisan Pastries

Croissants, almond danishes and other freshly baked goods from the street’s bakeries.

Seafood Platter

With Brighton being close to the coast, some restaurants offer fresh fish, calamari, or prawn platters.

Gelato / Ice Cream

Local gelatarias frequently offer seasonal flavours, making them ideal for a sweet treat while strolling.

PRICE PACKAGES

CONTRARY TO POPULAR BELIEF, LOREM IPSUM IS NOT SIMPLY RANDOM TEXT. IT HAS ROOTS IN A PIECE OF CLASSICAL LATIN LITERATURE FROM 45 BC, MAKING IT OVER 2000 YEARS OLD.

St. Ali Italian Film Festiva

  • Dates :September 19 – October 16, 2025
  • Location:Palace Cinema – Bay Street
  • Highlights :A celebration of Italian cinema featuring a curated selection of films from Italy, showcasing contemporary and classic works.
  • Ideal For: Movie enthusiasts and people curious about Italian culture.

Brighton Bathing Box Classic

  • Date:February 1, 2026
  • Location: Dendy Beach, Brighton
  • Event Type:Ocean swim with 1.2km and 2.5km courses
  • Purpose:Arranged by the Brighton Surf Lifesaving Club to promote lifesaving efforts and generate money for their new clubhouse.

Songs Inside

  • Date:October 26, 2025
  • Time:3:30 PM – 6:00 PM
  • Location:Palace Church Street (formerly Dendy Brighton)
  • Description:After a documentary screening, there will be a panel discussion about women, housing and community ties.

Curry Day at Half Moon Hotel

  • Date:September 29, 2025
  • Time:12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Location:Half Moon Hotel, Brighton
  • Specialty:A rotating assortment of homemade curries served with all the condiments.

Our Blog

Everything You Need To Know

Street Art and Galleries: Exploring Church Street’s Creative Side

Street Art and Galleries: Exploring Church Street’s Creative Side

Brighton, Victoria’s shopping district “Church Street” is famous for its shops, cafes and coastal beauty. However, the neighbourhood is also...

Continue Reading
Hidden Gems: Lesser Known Cafés and Bakeries You’ll Love

Hidden Gems: Lesser Known Cafés and Bakeries You’ll Love

the main strip, The Pantry has long been a Brighton institution. While it’s often associated with its restaurant, its café...

Continue Reading
A Local’s Guide to Spending a Perfect Day on Church Street

A Local’s Guide to Spending a Perfect Day on Church Street

Church Street in Brighton, Victoria is more than simply a shopping avenue; it’s a place, where locals and tourists alike...

Continue Reading