Located in the north of Canberra, Australia, Braddon is the most densely populated suburb in its territory with a population of over 4,500 people. It is within walking distance of the city yet holds its own independent local culture and atmosphere. This residential and entertainment district has developed an artistic, urban style over the years and is now a haven for the young and alternative crowd.
Lonsdale Street is a particularly trendy area of Braddon, home to numerous independent cafes and bars, as well as urban street art and boutique shops, where visitors can shop for designer clothes and vintage fashion. The Ori building is best for shopping as it hosts a range of unique labels and stylish Australian brands. Locals know the area for its coffee specialties, and the streets of Braddon stay lively into the evening when visitors can try the local collection of cask ales or indulge in a fine dining experience. However, food vans are the most popular places to eat in Braddon, particularly in the area known as The Hamlet, where there is a cluster of vans always buzzing with a variety of international cuisines.
The suburb of Braddon is very close to the city centre, so the nearest railway station is Canberra central station. Visitors can access the area by simply walking from central Canberra for 15 minutes, or drivers can reach Braddon in a two-minute drive.
Braddon was the only suburban area of Canberra designed by the original architect of the city, Walter Burley Griffin, who wanted to ensure that the urban centre retained the roots of local vegetation. Indeed, exotic plant life lines the avenues of the suburb, and the street names of the neighbourhood honour aboriginal words and pioneers. Braddon was once an area of light industry, but it is now predominantly a residential district, with an independent and urban edginess to its entertainment facilities.