Williamstown: The west Melbourne 'burb that gives Albert Park a run for its money
Established as the city’s original seaport, Williamstown – founded first as Port Harwood in 1835 – was once a real contender to become Melbourne’s CBD. The seaside suburb was renamed after King William IV a couple of years later – roughly the same time the locale became the first harbour, setting it up to be the maritime village we know today. You’ll find rich history shining in every corner, from elegant Victorian-era buildings to pubs that have been around for generations.
For those who love long stretches of sand and the outdoors, but want to be in close proximity to the city, the laid-back ’burb offers the best of both worlds, with Williamstown Beach and Williamstown Botanic Gardens accessible within minutes. In the mornings, locals can often be found walking along the glistening pier, admiring yachts before they set sail for the day. The views of both the ocean and the city are unbeatable, particularly for those lucky residents living in one of Williamstown’s impressive harbourfront properties.
Hungry? Late last year, the grand 1890-built pub Morning Star Hotel reopened with a new California-meets-Melbourne look and and menu. There are pub staples including parmas and cheeseburgers, plus fancier plates such as pork tomahawk served with apple-ginger sauce; tender lamb shoulder with pearl couscous and yoghurt sauce; salted snapper fritters; and Scotch eggs with hot mustard. Grab a seat in the front bar fitted out with retro mosaic tiles and vintage lighting, or head to the 100-capacity beer garden at the back for drinks in the sun. For rooftop views, head to the three-storey Hobsons Bay Hotel with its classic rustic charm. On the flame-licked menu: brasserie-style steaks with condiment plates, prawn linguine, and grilled barramundi served with asparagus.
There’s also no shortage of waterfront dining rooms in town. Sebastian is inspired by the food and booze culture of San Sebastian in Spain, serving up traditional pintxos, tapas and Spanish wine. Inside, white and blue walls and seafront views transport you straight to Basque country. Nearby, Pier Farm also embraces the Med with takes on Spanish cuisine, along with Italian dishes like handmade black truffle ravioli topped with veal ragu, and trofie pesto pasta with green beans.
If you’re not heading to the pub for knock-offs, there’s a long list of bars worth checking out. Lower West Side is always pumping. The wine bar offers Australian, French and Italian drops and small plates to match. For something heavier, Bathtub Gin offers a variety of house-made gins – either matched with Long Rays tonics or mixed into top-notch cocktails like the Melbourne Negroni made with the distillery’s coffee gin.
For those who aren’t so active, there’s still lots to do around town. The Seaworks precinct is home to Williamstown’s Maritime Museum and plays host to many art and music events throughout the year. While away an afternoon strolling down Nelson Place, the suburb’s buzzy shopping and eating hub. It’s also where you’ll find some of Williamstown’s most beautiful homes in Williamstown. And the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria – which dates back to 1853 – is a popular spot for socialising and active boating.
Agent Insight
Who typically purchases in this suburb?
One of the most sought-after locations west of Melbourne for homebuyers, Williamstown is a beautiful beachside suburb full of rich history. Surrounded by the bay on three sides, its unique location allows for homes with stunning bay and city views. Popular with families thanks to its good schools and community, buyers are also attracted to the array of renovated period homes on spacious blocks and access to its own beach. Professional couples are regular buyers, appreciating the easy train or car access to the CBD (less than eight-kilometres away) and ‘downsizers’ are prominent in single-level homes and apartments close to amenities.
For sale in Williamstown
This beautifully renovated 1912 Federation-style home is where timeless charm meets modern elegance. Designed for effortless indoor-outdoor living, it features a striking open-plan kitchen with marble countertops and a bluestone-paved al fresco area with an outdoor kitchen – great for entertaining. Grand period details, four fireplaces and a pool complete the home, which is just moments from Williamstown’s waterfront.
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