What to do in Watson: Why locals love this Inner North suburb

Drive into Canberra from the north and the first suburb to greet you just inside the ACT border is leafy Watson. While it’s essentially the edge of town, you’re really not far from anything – close to Dickson and a 10-minute drive, or a short light rail trip from Civic. 

Back in the day, it was home to the much-loved Starlight Drive-In – the sign is still on display at the housing development that now stands on the site. In Watson, you’ll also find the Prime7 television studio and the Academy of Interactive Entertainment.

Eat & Drink

At the local shops, The Knox Made in Watson is the place to tuck into a hearty brunch laden with local produce, and while you’re there, it’s hard to resist something from their on-site bakery.

A few doors down, Lolo and Lola serve authentic Filipino cuisine and cakes, with food that would make every Filipino’s lolo (grandfather) and lola (grandmother) proud.

Prefer cooking yourself? Every Saturday morning, the Capital Region Farmers Market is just across the Federal Highway at Exhibition Park in Canberra, and one of the top spots to get your hands on local produce.

See & Do

Watson is home to the gorgeous Gallery of Small Things. At only six metres squared, it’s Canberra’s tiniest walk-in gallery, and runs exhibitions and workshops.

At Canberra Potters and Watson Arts Centre, you can browse a collection, shop the creations of local makers, or hone your own skills with a course.

Head to Mount Majura Nature Reserve, where it’s worth tackling the steep Casuarina Walking Trail to enjoy the fresh air and stunning views of Canberra. 

Property hunting in Watson? Check out properties for sale here.