Named after the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, Lord Palmerston, Palmerston is a planned satellite city to the east of Darwin. It was initially developed in the 1980s and remains one of the fastest-growing areas of the Northern Territory. While mainly residential, Palmerston has been designed with leafy parks and a central shopping district.
Things to do in Palmerston
In the heart of the city is the Palmerston Shopping Centre, which is anchored by a Coles supermarket and a Target department store. You can browse the women’s fashions at Rockman’s and Millers or pick up sporting goods at SportsPower before settling in for a coffee at the Boomerang Cafe. Fast-food eateries also dot the mall, including the Uppercrust Sandwich Bar and the Panda Food Centre.
Travelling with kids? They’ll love cooling off at Palmerston Water Park, which features a shallow splash pool and a six-lane racer slide. On the other side of the city centre is Sanctuary Lakes Park with its meandering trails. Kids can let loose in the children’s playground while spotting resident birds and ducks. Live music concerts and events are regularly held here.
Sprawling west of the city centre is the Palmerston Golf & Country Club, which plays host to the Northern Territory PGA Championship. In addition to its well-tended 18-hole course, it features a family-friendly miniature golf course and a laid-back bistro. A wide choice of golfing apparel and accessories is available at the on-site Pro Shop.
Getting around Palmerston
Palmerston is around 20 minutes’ drive from Darwin and Darwin International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Australia and Asia. Regular buses connect to Palmerston and travel throughout the city, although renting a car will give you greater freedom to explore the area.