New Regent Street

New Regent Street in Hobart's North Hobart precinct is a pocket-sized street that packs a vibrant punch. With its pastel-coloured Art Deco shopfronts, it feels like a movie set – and indeed it was built in the 1930s as Hobart's first 'modern' shopping strip. Today it’s a buzzing hub of cafes, bars, galleries, and boutiques, beloved by locals and a delightful discovery for visitors. The street’s compact scale makes it perfect for a leisurely stroll, coffee in hand, soaking up the lively atmosphere.

Highlights & What to See

• Art Deco architecture – The entire street is a heritage-listed ensemble of pastel terraces with original awnings, tiled facades, and neon signs. It’s one of Australia’s finest surviving examples of 1930s commercial design.
• Cafe culture – Pull up a chair at iconic spots like Pilgrim Coffee or Daci & Daci Bakers for superb coffee and pastries. The street buzzes with al fresco dining on sunny days.
• Local boutiques – Browse independent stores selling Tasmanian-made fashion, homewares, and art. Look out for Fika for Scandinavian-inspired gifts and Haus for quirky design objects.
• Bars and nightlife – As evening falls, spots like The Den Bar and Sonny offer craft cocktails and a relaxed vibe, often with live music.
• Street art and events – The street occasionally hosts pop-up markets and festivals; keep an eye out for murals on side lanes.

Suggested Time to Spend

An hour is enough to wander the entire street and grab a coffee, but you could easily spend a relaxed morning or afternoon hopping between cafes, boutiques, and a gallery. Many visitors combine it with a walk up Elizabeth Street or a visit to the nearby Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens. Aim for 1–2 hours if you’re just browsing, or plan a lunch stop to soak up the atmosphere.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• North Hobart – The surrounding suburb is full of great eateries, from Thai to Italian, and a lively pub scene.
• Salamanca Place – A 10-minute drive or 30-minute walk away, this historic waterfront precinct is famous for its Saturday market, sandstone warehouses, and galleries.
• Mount Wellington (Kunanyi) – Drive 20 minutes to the summit for panoramic views of Hobart and the Derwent River.
• Battery Point – A charming historic neighbourhood with colonial cottages, boutique shops, and the iconic Jackman & McRoss bakery.
• Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens – A 15-minute walk from New Regent Street, these gardens offer a peaceful escape with a Subantarctic plant house and Japanese garden.

Please check official sources for current details.