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When the Past and Present Meet at Ashgrove Brisbane
They say you should never let the past and present meet, but I’d make an exception if it’s at Ashgrove.
After all, everything just seems a little calmer, a little more peaceful, when the past and present collide in this historic haven.
Curious to see if Ashgrove is your perfect match? Let’s check out what makes this place…well, just so uniquely Ashgrove.
Ashgrove: An Overview
Ashgrove in Brisbane is a picture-worthy suburb located just 5 kilometres from the central business district. This suburb’s known for its timeless charm, attracting both young professionals and families for years.
Ashgrove’s appeal lies in its rich history, evident in its leafy streets lined with 1920s bungalow-style Queenslander homes.
This suburb was once the traditional lands of the Turrbal people, formerly known as Kallindarbin. Ashgrove preserves traces of its indigenous heritage.
A lot of its routes, including the Waterworks Road, follow the old Turrbal tracks, leading to important landmarks such as the Enoggera Reservoir.
These paths were once vital routes for the Turrbal people, leading to Mount Coot-tha, a place where honey was collected.
Among Ashgrove’s notable residents was Supreme Court Justice Rogers Harding, whose legacy extends beyond the suburb’s borders.
Residing in the heritage-listed St John’s Wood, Justice Harding’s personal library, gathered over his lifetime, became the foundation of what is now The State Library of Queensland.
His contribution to literature and law lives on in the thousands of volumes that form the library’s extensive collection.
Today, Ashgrove remains a calm suburb, offering a peaceful quick escape from the busy city life.
Its blend of history, natural beauty, and residential appeal continues to captivate residents and visitors alike, ensuring its status as a cherished Brisbane suburb for generations to come.
How to get to Ashgrove Brisbane
You can reach Ashgrove via private vehicle, taxi, ridesharing, or public transport.
Private vehicles provide flexible transportation directly to Ashgrove. Simply input your destination address into your preferred navigation app for a smooth journey.
If you prefer not bringing your own car, you can just opt for taxis, and even ridesharing services.
Meanwhile, if you prefer public transport, just catch the Line 350 bus to Ashgrove. This bus route provides convenient access to Ashgrove from various locations.
The Best Time to Go to Ashgrove Brisbane
The best time to visit Ashgrove depends on your preferences and what you plan to do. Let’s check each one out!
Weather
- Spring (September to November): Mild temperatures and blooming flora make spring a great time to explore Ashgrove’s parks and outdoor spaces.
- Autumn (March to May): Enjoy the pleasant weather and lively foliage as the leaves change colour, creating a picture-perfect backdrop for walks and outdoor activities.
- Summer (December to February): Summer can bring hot and humid weather, so if you’re not a fan of heat, it’s best to avoid this season.
Events and Festivals
- Local Festivals: Watch out for local events and festivals happening in Ashgrove throughout the year, such as community markets, music festivals, and cultural celebrations.
- Brisbane Events: Ashgrove’s proximity to Brisbane means you can also enjoy the city’s year-round calendar of events, including concerts, art exhibitions, and sporting events.
Weekdays vs. Weekends
- Weekdays: Enjoy a quieter atmosphere and fewer crowds if you prefer a more relaxed experience.
- Weekends: Experience the buzz of weekend activities, such as brunch at local cafes, exploring markets, or taking part in community events.
School Holidays
- Family-Friendly Activities: If you’re visiting with your kids, school holidays offer a chance to enjoy family-friendly activities and attractions in and around Ashgrove.
Things to Know about Ashgrove Brisbane
If it’s your first time in Ashgrove, here are a few essential things to know about this suburb:
- Currency: Australia’s currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD).
- Language: English is the primary language spoken in Ashgrove and throughout Australia.
- Calling Code: The calling code for Ashgrove and the rest of Australia is +61.
- Dining and Cuisine: Ashgrove offers a diverse culinary scene with options ranging from cosy cafes to international cuisines, satisfying every palate.
- Weather: Ashgrove enjoys a subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it pleasant for outdoor activities year-round.
- Safety: Ashgrove maintains a reputation as a safe suburb, with a tight-knit community and low crime rates providing peace of mind to residents and visitors.
- Heritage Sites: Ashgrove has over 30 heritage-listed places, including historic properties like Grantuly and St. John’s Wood House, offering insights into the suburb’s rich history.
In fact, some of the suburb’s oldest buildings still function as classrooms at Oakleigh State School and Ashgrove State School.
- Community Spirit: Ashgrove has been known for its cosy neighborhood atmosphere, fostered by local shops, cafes, community gardens, and events like those hosted at The Newmarket community center.
They even has its community news website—Ashgrove Today!
- Recreation: Families can enjoy over 30 parks, including Dorrington Park with its Enchanted Forest playground, while walking trails and bike paths provide opportunities for outdoor exploration.
- Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods: Known as ‘nappy valley’ in the post-war period, Ashgrove continues to be a desirable location for families, offering a suburban lifestyle close to essential amenities.
- Education Options: Ashgrove offers top-rated primary schools and prestigious high schools, catering to students of all ages. The suburb has both a Catholic boys’ high school and Catholic girls’ high school.
Additionally, nearby universities such as Univerisity of Queensland’s Herston campus and Queenland University of Technology’s Kelvin Grove campus offer educational opportunities for adults.
- Healthy Living Options: Residents can prioritise wellness with a variety of services including chiropractic care from Ashgrove Chiropractic Clinic, and massage therapy by Niggles and Knots Remedial Massage.
There are also psychological support services at Mind and Body Psychology.
The Best Things to See and Do in Ashgrove Brisbane
Explore the Outdoors at Tabbli Ban Dhagun Mangrove Boardwalk
When you’re in Ashgrove, you can explore the outdoors at Tabbil Ban Dhagun Mangrove Boardwalk.
Translating to ‘place of salt water’, this hidden gem is less crowded than nearby Boondall Wetlands.
The 2 kilometre boardwalk winds through mangroves, offering breathtaking views of Shorncliffe and the bay’s turquoise waters.
During low tide, you can even see lively crab colonies and other crustaceans. While the path is stroller-friendly, it’s essential to bring sun protection due to exposure to the sun.
Have a Picnic at The Gap Park
Media credit: @bubsandreviews
Address: 17 Parkside Crescent, Brisbane QLD, Australia
You can also have a picnic and just enjoy being surrounded by lush bushland at The Gap.
Normally, visitors go to this park to enjoy the calm ambiance of D’Aguilar National Park. With over 28,500 hectares of bushland, The Gap offers lots of opportunities for outdoor recreation—yes, including picnics!
Here, you can also invite your friends for some mountain biking, horse riding, or even birdwatching!
The park’s rich biodiversity, including birds, animals, and plant life, provides nature enthusiasts with ample opportunities for exploration.
You can also stroll along the walking trails (walking trails brisbane) while keeping an eye out for the fascinating wildlife that calls this area home.
Get On a Thrilling Go Kart Race at Slideways Go Karting
Website: http://gokartingbrisbane.com.au/
Address: 870 Kingsford Smith Dr, Eagle Farm, QLD 4009, Australia
Contact Details: +61 7 3868 2225
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM; Friday: 12:00 PM- 9:00 PM; Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Go outside your comfort zone, Ashgrove is also home to thrilling activities like the ones in Slideways Go Karting!
Their indoor kart track offers 425 metre of heart-pounding action, featuring massive second-level structures, an all-weather outdoor loop, and exhilarating sweepers and esses.
What sets them apart is their unique track surface, specially designed by Slideways Go Karting Australia.
Compared to its counterparts, Slideways Go Karting’s track allows karts to drift, adding an extra level of excitement to your racing experience.
Families are also welcome here, with kids as young as 7 able to drive their own go-kart, as long as they meet their age and height restrictions.
Walk Your Furry Friends at Sunset Park
Media credit: @maddogbrisbane
Website: https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/facilities-recreation/parks-venues/parks/parks-suburb/ashgrove-parks
Address: 30 Monoplane St, Ashgrove, QLD 4060, Australia
Contact Details: +61 7 3403 8888
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
Got a free afternoon? Spend it with your furry friends at Sunset Park!
This park offers a spacious and fenced area, making it one of the largest dog parks in the west. You can even enjoy being surrounded by Enoggera Hill’s forested landscape.
As the name suggests, Sunset Dog Park is an ideal spot to unwind at the end of the day. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a picturesque sunset with a glass of wine or beer, soaking in the beauty of the hill’s silhouette against the colourful sky.
Let the Kids Play at Dorrington Park Enchanted Forest
Website: https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/facilities-recreation/parks-venues/parks/parks-suburb/ashgrove-parks
Address: 5 Mirrabooka Rd, Ashgrove, QLD 4060, Australia
Contact Details: +61 7 3403 8888
Operating Hours: Open 24 Hours
Aside from having a spacious playground, Dorrington Park Enchanted Forest also has musical toadstools, and colourful playground equipment.
Additionally, this playground also offers BBQ facilities, and shaded tables for complete afternoon fun with the entire family.
And for those of you who need some coffee while having your little picnic, you can choose from a number of cafes cose to the area, making it easy to grab one before or after playtime!
Visit Glen Lyon’s Historical Home
Media credit: @blueysbrisbane
Address: 34 Glenlyon Drive, Ashgrove, QLD 4060, Australia
Your time in Ashgrove won’t be complete without a visit to the second oldest heritage home in town—Glen Lyon’s. This historic home is a testament to the town’s architectural heritage.
This villa was built from 1876 to 1877 and was once a monastery.
To make the most of your visit, you can opt to avail guided tours, which will provide you insights about its former inhabitants and significant events that happened in this home.
Where to Eat in Ashgrove
Hashtags Burgers and Waffles
Website: https://www.hashtagburgersandwaffles.com.au/
Address: Shop 3/477 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley, QLD 4006, Australia
Contact Details: +61 7 3569 5805
Operating Hours: Thursday – Monday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Hashtags Burgers and Waffles is a cosy old corner shop, offering both takeaway and dine-in options for those visiting Ashgrove.
Aside from their wide range of mild to spicy burgers, they also offer slow-cooked pulled chicken, and mac’n’cheese patties!
You can also enjoy their sides such as chicken wings, cheesy toast, and onion rings.
And for those of you with a sweet tooth, you’ll probably love their homemade buttermilk waffles loaded with brownies and ice cream.
And if you want to enjoy their outdoor seating, you can borrow some of their picnic blankets so you can eat their burgers in the opposite park!
Famished on Frasers
Address: 62 Frasers Rd, Ashgrove, QLD 4060, Australia
Contact Details: +61 7 3899 1068
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday: 6:00 AM – 1:30 PM
One of the great casual dining cafes in Ashgrove is Famished on Frasers. Here, there’s outdoor seating for you and your furry friends too!
Start your day right with a visit at Famished on Frasers for that morning coffee fix. They even serve all-day breakfast, ensuring your favourite breaky dishes are available when hunger strikes.
Meanwhile, for those joining later in the day, you can get your salads and burgers along with your breaky favourites.
And don’t forget to pair your meal with a refreshing smoothie to keep you fueled as you explore Ashgrove throughout the day!
Corn Street Cafe
Website: http://www.cornst.com.au/
Address: Shop 2/498 Waterworks Rd, Ashgrove, QLD 4060, Australia
Contact Details: +61 411 743 069
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday: 6:30 AM – 2:30 PM; Sunday: 6:30 AM – 2:00 PM
Corn Street Cafe is not just your typical coffee shop, it’s also your modern marketplace! Aside from enjoying freshly brewed coffee, you can have brunch in this lovely space while browsing their handcrafted artisan homewares.
For those who love to spruce up their plants, you’ll probably find cute plant pots, and even painted ceramics here!
This cafe serves breakfast favourites such as roasted granola and avo toast. Meanwhile, those with a sweet tooth can indulge in their freshly baked cupcakes and chocolate brownies.
Corn Street Cafe is also a dog-loving coffee shop, so feel free to lounge here with your pets.
Where to Stay in Ashgrove
Grove Manor
Media credit: @ddungmickey
Address: 17 Elimatta Dr, Ashgrove, QLD 4060, Australia
Grove Manor is your home away from home when you’re in Ashgrove. Known for its cosy interiors and comfortable rooms, it’s a great accommodation to consider when you’re spending a night or two in town.
With its spacious rooms and luxurious beds, you can take your entire family here without worrying about limited space.
Here, you can also enjoy free breakfast so you don’t need to head to eat early in the morning.
Gambaro Hotel Brisbane
Address: 33 Caxton St, Petrie Terrace, QLD 4000, Australia
If you like a hotel just 5 minutes away from the city center, book that room in Gambaro Hotel Brisbane!
While rooms may be on the smaller side, they are still designed to offer you comfort and functionality during your stay.
And if you want to stay active and energised during your little vacation, then you’ll be glad to find the hotel’s fitness centre. You can even take a refreshing dip in their pool.
Meanwhile, those who prefer to stay a little longer, can avail their onsite laundry service.
