Destination style All roads lead to stylish, beautiful Toowoomba
WE EXPLORE AUSTRALIA’S MOST EXCITING DESIGN AND STYLE DESTINATIONS
It’s the epicentre of South Queensland’s Darling Downs – a farming region only 90 minutes from Brisbane and two hours from the Gold Coast – and with an abundance of fabulous places to eat, shop and stay, the city of Toowoomba is emerging as a super-stylish destination. From its swish boutiques to the annual Carnival of Flowers, the ‘Garden City’ is one good-looking town.
EAT
1. Burrow
Burrow cafe is a firm favourite in Toowoomba. Sit outside in the sunny courtyard or head inside and peruse the art on the walls, all of which are for sale. The chef creates seasonal menus that keep the regulars (and new faces) coming back. Visit: 117a Bridge Street, East Toowoomba Bookmark: burrowcafe.com.au
2. The Baker’s Duck
The Baker’s Duck is the name on many a local’s lips, thanks to the topnotch local coffee from Ground Up Espresso and a fine selection of artisan sourdough and pastries – the Weis ice-cream croissant is a must. Sharing the space is Belmont Botanical where you can pick up beautiful bespoke florals or one of their chic vases.
Visit: 124 Campbell St, Toowoomba Bookmark: thebakersduck.com.au
SHOP
3. The Store Room
Whether you’re looking for homewares and furnishings or need a unique gift, The Store Room is a little treasure trove of items by creative Australian designers and makers. From jewellery and bags to luxe candles and room sprays, there’s plenty to look at so you’re sure to stay a while. Just as well they serve up snacks and coffee too!
Visit: 2/111 Campbell St, Toowoomba Bookmark: the-storeroom.com.au
4. HAROLDS IF YOU DO ONE THING, IT’S GOT TO BE A TRIP TO LUXE INTERIORS BOUTIQUE HAROLDS. INSIDE YOU’LL FIND A CAREFULLY CURATED SELECTION OF WARES AND FURNITURE IN A PALETTE OF FRESH GREENS, CRISP WHITE AND BLACK, ALONG WITH AGED BRASS TRINKETS AND PATINATED TERRACOTTA. VISIT: 84 HUME STREET, EAST TOOWOOMBA BOOKMARK: HAROLDSFINISHINGTOUCHES.COM
STAY
5. Norwood Roses
The divine Norwood Roses Queenslander cottage is a delightful spot to spend the weekend, particularly in spring and summer when the rose garden is in full bloom. You can expect a private retreat full of charm. Visit: Price Lane, Toowoomba
Bookmark: Airbnb.com/h/norwoodroses
6. The Arbour Boutique Apartments Luxury spots central to all the action, Arbour Boutique Apartments are spacious and welcoming with refined yet comfortable decor and thoughtful touches.
Visit: 27 Scott Street, Toowoomba Bookmark: arbourapartments.com.au
EXPLORE
7. Carnival of Flowers
Toowoomba has long been known for its spectacular floral displays at the Carnival of Flowers, which is held over 10 days each September in the heritage-listed botanic gardens, parks and private gardens. If you don’t make it for the carnival, a visit to Queens Park any time of year is a real treat. Visit: The two major feature displays are located at the Botanic Gardens, Queens Park (cnr Lindsay and Campbell Streets, Toowoomba) and Laurel Bank Park (50 Hill Street, Toowoomba).
Bookmark: tcof.com.au
8. The Makers Market
Run on the second and fourth Sundays of every month, The Makers Market is the perfect place to while away a few hours, perusing the stalls filled with products by talented makers, doers and small businesses. Search for @themakersmarkettoowoomba on Facebook for more information.
Visit: The Mills Precinct, 269-291 Ruthven St, Toowoomba
“THE BEAUTIFUL GARDENS OF TOOWOOMBA PROVIDE A SWEET SPOT TO TAKE A BREAK”
~ ELLE LOVELOCK, HB EDITOR-IN-CHIEF