Darby Street is a relaxed, walkable street that families can enjoy at any time of day - good cafés, gelato, bookshops and plenty to look at for curious young visitors.
Darby Street works well for families during the day. It's flat, compact and not overwhelming. Start with breakfast at Goldbergs or Three Monkeys - both have menus that work for all ages. From there, browse the boutiques at your own pace: Made on Darby and Blackbird Corner are interesting for children to look around, and Cooks Hill Books is a great stop for young readers.
Monella Gelato is the obvious dessert destination and a reliable crowd-pleaser. Coco Monde is worth a visit for older children interested in chocolate. After the street, King Edward Park is a short walk away for open space and sea views.
Our picks
A Newcastle institution since 1995, Goldbergs has been serving all-day meals on Darby Street for nearly 30 years. Everything is made from scratch with large servings and well-priced options.
137 Darby Street, Newcastle NSW 2300
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A brunch destination operating for over 20 years. Known for generous portions, consistent quality, all-day breakfast menu, signature smoothies, and eggs benedict.
131 Darby Street, Cooks Hill NSW 2300
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Hand-crafted gelato and sorbet with a rotating menu of decadent flavours, open until 10pm nightly and 11pm on weekends - the perfect evening sweet treat on Darby Street.
149 Darby Street, Cooks Hill NSW 2300
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A Newcastle institution opened in 1985, offering a carefully curated collection of second-hand books and records. Owner David McLean has grown this corner shop into a destination for book and record lovers.
72 Darby Street, Newcastle NSW 2300
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A creative collective featuring goods from 19 local Newcastle and Hunter Valley makers. Each maker rents their own space with no commission charged - a true hub for local artisans.
104 Darby Street, Cooks Hill NSW 2300
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A small gift store selling Australian handmade wares and Newcastle-themed souvenirs since 2006. Much of the stock is designed and made in NSW - with an online store established in 2018.
74 Darby Street, Cooks Hill NSW 2300
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A café and chocolateria opened in 2011. Hand-crafted chocolates, ice cream, honeycomb, and marshmallow are all made in-house, with seasonal and innovative offerings.
80 Darby Street, Cooks Hill NSW 2300
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