Melbourne's Maling Road

I'm in Melbourne with a free morning before flying home. I'd like to fit in some last minute shopping but can't face the thought of city crowds. I want somewhere relaxing where I can stroll and take time for a sidewalk coffee. So I head to Maling Road, a street of over 50 shops restored to their original Edwardian style and just 12 kilometres from central Melbourne.

Located in the popular suburb of Canterbury, east of Melbourne, Maling Road is adjacent to Canterbury Station on the Lilydale/Belgrave line, nine stops from the city. This quaint shopping precinct is a step back into the past; no wonder it's a sought after location by film crews for local and international films.

With its eclectic array of unique boutiques Maling Road has been named in the top five shopping destinations of Victoria. It is stylish street shopping at its best. I love the fabulous fashion and antique shops, galleries, cafes, homewares and other specialty shops but 'A Pocket of Lollies' is my favourite. It's guaranteed to bring back all those favourite childhood memories of sweet treats we thought were lost forever.

The history of Maling Road goes back to the late 1880s with the opening of a new suburban railway to the area. The first shops clustered near the station, providing a focal point for shopping and the theatre. As the suburb grew in the early 1900s the scope of the shopping centre grew but the village ambience still remained.

At Maling Walk, adjacent to the Village on the railway wall, are five murals depicting significant stages in the history of the Maling Road Precinct, from 1885 (when the railway first came to Canterbury) to the present day. The murals tell an historic story, including a quirky nursery rhyme hunt for children, but are portrayed with an edgy feel to engage youth and adults as well. Well worth visiting.

The scent from the vibrant flower boxes, delicious window displays and enticing wares spilling onto the pavement make me lightheaded on decadence as I stroll down Maling Road. No wonder browsers and shoppers come from the four corners of Melbourne and beyond to enjoy the wonderful relaxed atmosphere this unique shopping area offers. This is still one of Melbourne's best kept shopping secrets but now that I have told you I know it won't stay that way for long.