Iconic cottages and tree-lined streets. Is this the best location in Canberra's Inner South?

By
Karen Hardy
February 10, 2025
Urban Pantry is a popular haunt offering casual dining options on Bougainville Street. Photo: Ashley St George

Griffith has every right to stake its claim as the Inner South suburb with the most character.

From heritage-listed homes to dramatic new builds, it stretches from Manuka Circle in the north to Monaro Crescent and the gigantic roundabout on Canberra Avenue.

For the record, the Manuka shops are actually in Griffith!

The residents of Griffith have easy access to the Manuka shops. Photo: Ashley St George

You’re spoilt for choice here since the Griffith shops themselves should not be forgotten.

One of the best butchers in town sits close to Mountain Creek Wholefoods, and Gryphons Caffe Bar is the perfect spot for a morning coffee or a quick after-work drink.

You can then head over to Rubicon restaurant for fine dining.

Along with prestigious homes, the suburb has a range of apartments, from well-established boutique complexes to high-end options with all the trimmings.

Griffith is home to many of Canberra's prestigious homes. Photo: Ashley St George

Whether you’re looking for an investment or are keen to downsize, Griffith is well worth a look.

Belle Property’s Josh Bruce is a third-generation Griffith resident. He grew up in the suburb, not far from his grandparents’ house on Lockyer Street, and now he’s raising his own young family nearby.

“I have always loved the iconic Canberra cottages and red-brick homes, with beautiful tree-lined streets, ample parks and open spaces,” he says. “I think it’s the best location in the Inner South.

“My brother and I went to school at St Edmunds and later Canberra Grammar.

The iconic 'Canberra Reds' can be found throughout the suburb. Photo: Ashley St George

“It was a great place to grow up. Griffith is definitely in the blood.”

Bruce says Canberra’s transient nature often means the year’s property market starts off strong in the area, “especially for units and townhouses”.

“There are some exciting listings launching in the near future, too, for those who are looking to purchase their next dream home,” he says.

“There’s a great mix of beautiful family homes with generational parcels, combined with a very popular downsizing market due to the proximity of Manuka and Kingston.”

You're spoilt for choice in both housing and amenities in the characterful suburb of Griffith. Photo: Ashley St George

My Local

with Josh Bruce, Belle Property Canberra

Best eats

Recess Coffee at the Griffith Shops has the best coffee in the Inner South, as well as sensational breakfast and brunch options. My favourite is the fried chicken sandwich.

Hidden gem

Mount Creek Wholefoods has some of the best organic and local produce going around. But head up the back to the cheeky hidden kitchen for great juices, smoothies and a healthy lunch.

Favourite street

You can’t go past places such as Bass Gardens and Grant Crescent in Old Griffith. These beautiful tree-lined streets showcase some remarkable homes.

 

Homes for sale in Griffith

$1,499,000
4/39 Manuka Circle, Griffith ACT 2603
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Agent: Tim and Justine Burke, Luton Properties Weston Creek and Molonglo Valley 0411 878 587

Situated close to Manuka Pool, this sophisticated three-bedroom apartment is in a boutique complex that’s perfect for downsizers looking for that Inner-South lifestyle.

The open-plan living areas are full of light, with a well-designed cook’s kitchen and plenty of storage.

There are two secured parking spaces and landscaped gardens, and it’s just a quick stroll to Manuka for the morning coffee.

$2,250,000
34 Hodgkinson Street, Griffith ACT 2603
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2
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View property

Agent: Belle Property Canberra, Josh Bruce 0431 064 291

Set on a generous 1050-square-metre block surrounded by matured, lush gardens, this four-bedroom home has been lovingly maintained for more than seven decades.

Features include multiple living rooms, an original fireplace and a separate study.

The home is conveniently located within a three-minute drive to Griffith shops, four minutes to Manuka Village and Canberra Grammar School.

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