Chatswood Student Living Guide
Often referred to as the CBD of the Lower North Shore, Chatswood has slowly become a destination very much in its own right.
Combining the bustle and benefits of city living alongside the tranquil charm and leafiness of suburban bliss, there is no better place to be located for access to all that Sydney has to offer while you study.
WHO’S THERE?
A well-known melting pot of multiculturalism, Chatswood thrives on a mixed residential blend that reflects the contemporary diversity of the area. With just a 20-minute journey time in to the centre of Sydney or to Macquarie University, it is no surprise that Chatswood remains a hugely popular choice for business people and students alike. Factor in the surrounding families taking advantage of the fantastic schools on offer as well as the Asian-influenced local community and this buzzing neighbourhood begins to make sense.
WHAT TO DO?
The question is not what to do, but where to begin. With premier shopping destinations like Westfield and Chatswood Chase just 500m apart, there is good reason why 20 million shoppers flood to Chatswood every year. If the inside fashion and dining options get too much, step out for some fresh air at the Pedestrian Mall that connects Victoria Avenue to the station. Or simply amble around the Thursday and Friday night street markets outside the malls for fresh food, music and entertainment that will carry you well in to the weekend. For the culture vultures out there, The Concourse will not disappoint. Home to the Willoughby Choir and Symphony Orchestra this spectacular space regularly hosts a diverse range of live arts from classical and jazz, through to ballet and theatre. Here you will also find the impressive Chatswood Library – the largest offering on the North Shore, as well as urban screen, a free public screening entertainment initiative set up to bring the community together. When winter draws in, watch out for Vivid Chatswood, Sydney’s award-winning festival of light, music and ideas. Then, when you’ve had enough of everybody else, head out to Lane Cove National Park and enjoy the lush surrounds by foot or by bike for a stunning way to reset your mind.
WHERE TO GO?
Chatswood is fast becoming a lively evening hotspot with eateries and bars popping up quicker than you can order dim sum. The demand is high, with weary workers and pepped up shoppers keen to let off steam at the end of a long day. Fortunately, the opportunities are endless.
Head to The District at Chatswood Interchange for multiple eating options from around the world – including the first Australian location of the Michelin Star restaurant Tim Ho Wan, as well as Chum Tang for those that like it searing hot. Asian food does not get any better than at the street-food inspired Hawker Lane inside Westfield. This ambient food court hosts a range of dining opportunities that are open right until 10pm. Check out Lamb and Cumin for a delicious range of roasted meats, Madame Nhu for tasty Vietnamese Pho and you simply can’t walk past Aqua S for the perfect soft serve. Here you’ll find all the trimmings imaginable, just crying out for an Instagram filter.
When the lights have dimmed, enjoy a drink European-style at The Avenue, the ideal spot to diffuse at the end of a long day – or in the middle if you prefer. Try out the Great Northern Hotel for a traditional pub offering and a touch of Chatswood history where you can even cook up your own steak while you’re waiting for a beer. If none of that touches the mark, you can’t beat a fun night with mates at Strike Bowling, or sink back into Hoyts’ powered recliner seats in front of your favourite movie.
OUT AND ABOUT
The fact that Chatswood has developed into the third largest CBD in Sydney is due in no small part to Chatswood Interchange. With train and bus connections into key areas such as the Sydney CBD, North Sydney, Macquarie Centre, Bondi and the airport, Chatswood Interchange is now one of the city’s busiest transport hubs catering for over 35,000 rail passengers alone every day. The best part about living in Chatswood is how easy it is to escape. Whether you plan for the beach, the city or the bush, with regular transport services around NSW the opportunities are endless.
Enjoy all the benefits of Sydney living – with all the added benefits of home right on your doorstep. Chatswood: it’s the alternative destination.