If you’re after a relaxing Sunday in Newtown, this vibrant suburb offers the perfect mix of bohemian vibes, creative energy, and local charm. It’s known for street art, eclectic shops, and a laid back pace. Newtown is the ideal place to slow down and enjoy Sydney’s inner west like a true local.
During the week and into the weekend, Newtown buzzes with life. But on Sundays, the pace slows. It’s the perfect time to experience what locals love most about this unique suburb.
If you’re planning a Sunday with great food, casual strolls, and a relaxed vibe, this guide will show you how to unwind like a local.
Start Your Sunday with Brunch at Rolling Penny
Any great Sunday starts with brunch, and in Newtown, options are everywhere. One local favourite is Rolling Penny, a café on King Street.
Locals love it for its creative food, warm service, and rustic setting. It strikes the right balance between trendy and unpretentious.
Rolling Penny serves a seasonal and inventive menu. You’ll find breakfast burgers with chilli jam, herby scrambled eggs with halloumi, and banana bread French toast for those with a sweet tooth. Vegan friendly plates are also available and packed with flavour.
What really makes the place stand out is the atmosphere. With timber details, exposed brick, and a cosy layout, it feels more like someone’s lounge than a café. If you grab an outdoor table, it’s a prime spot to sip a flat white and watch Newtown come to life.
Take a Leisurely Stroll Through Camperdown Memorial Rest Park
After that, the best way to soak in Newtown’s relaxed Sunday mood is with a gentle walk through Camperdown Memorial Rest Park.
Just a short wander from King Street, this green space is Newtown’s hidden oasis; a place where locals gather to read, exercise, picnic, or simply enjoy some peace amid the city’s bustle.
You’ll find open grass areas, mature trees, and shaded benches. Perfect for laying out a blanket and enjoying a few quiet moments. On weekends, you might stumble upon yoga groups, kids playing cricket, or dogs happily chasing each other. It’s a lively yet tranquil scene that captures the community spirit of Newtown beautifully.
If you’re feeling energetic, the park’s pathways also connect to other green spaces nearby, so you can extend your walk and discover more leafy corners of the inner west.
Browse Newtown’s Diverse Shops and Vintage Finds
No visit to Newtown is complete without exploring its vibrant retail scene. After soaking up the park’s calm, head back towards King Street and Enmore Road for some serious treasure hunting.
Newtown’s streets are dotted with vintage stores like SWOP and Uturn, where you can score everything from retro fashion to quirky homewares. In addition, these shops are a magnet for fashion lovers and collectors for the thrill of finding one-of-a-kind pieces.
Beyond vintage, the area is home to local boutiques, art galleries, and independent bookstores that showcase the creative heart of Newtown. Take your time wandering through the colourful streets, popping into little side lanes and alleyways; often, the best shops are tucked away just out of sight.
If you’re feeling peckish or just want a quick caffeine hit during your shopping spree, Newtown’s café scene is always ready with a takeaway flat white or a fresh pastry.
Sweet Treat Stop: C9 Chocolate & Gelato
Mid-afternoon is the perfect time to treat yourself, and there’s nowhere better than C9 Chocolate & Gelato. This dessert haven blends indulgence with variety, offering something for every craving, from handcrafted gelato and smooth açai bowls to rich chocolate desserts that are made to impress.
Their gelato range includes everything from classic favourites to seasonal specials: creamy hazelnut, tangy mango, decadent biscoff, and more. Feeling extra indulgent? Try one of their signature dessert creations, like crepe pasta or loaded waffles, where the gelato is just one layer of a truly rich experience.
Alternatively, if you’re after something lighter, their açai bowls are refreshing and packed with fresh fruit and toppings, perfect for a sunny afternoon wander.
Whether you stay for dessert or grab a scoop to go, C9 deserves a spot on your Newtown Sunday itinerary.
Wind Down with a Drink at The Courthouse Hotel
As the day draws to a close, nothing beats winding down with a cold drink in a relaxed setting. Locals affectionately call it “The Courty,” and it offers one of the best beer gardens in Sydney’s inner west.
Set in a historic building with plenty of outdoor space, overall, The Courty strikes the perfect balance between lively and laid back. Whether you want to catch up with friends over craft beers, sip on a refreshing cocktail, or just enjoy a casual meal, this pub ticks all the boxes.
What makes The Courthouse stand out is its welcoming atmosphere and dog friendly policy. You’ll often spot furry friends lounging beside their owners as the sun sets. With friendly staff, pub classics on the menu, and plenty of shaded spots, it’s a perfect place to end your Sunday in Newtown.
Final Thoughts
Newtown is a suburb that celebrates individuality, creativity, and community, and that spirit really shines through on a relaxing Sunday. From the rich flavours of a slow brunch to the quiet charm of its parks and the colourful energy of its streets, it’s a place where you can truly unwind and enjoy Sydney at a gentler pace.
So next time you find yourself craving a Sunday filled with great food, unique finds, and easy going vibes, take a trip to Newtown. With its welcoming locals, hidden corners, and authentic character, you’ll leave feeling refreshed, inspired, and already planning your next visit.
For more insider tips on exploring Sydney’s coolest neighbourhoods, keep following GetSydney.com.au, your local guide to the best lifestyle spots in the city.
