The general store is an enduring relic of yesteryear, still stocked with everything from fuel to homemade jams. Here are 13 of the best in Australia.
The humble general store wears many hats. A post office. A fuel stop. A cafe. A deli. A watering hole. A time capsule that steers you tenderly into the past. But above all, it’s a neighbourhood hub that brings people together.
These charming general stores in Australia are the beating heart of their communities, representing all the things we love about small regional towns. At the same time, they’re evolving – offering new reasons to stop in from community art spaces to wine dens championing local makers.
And we think it’s about time someone made a hit list.
Wollombi General Store, NSW
Take a trip down memory lane at Wollombin General Store.
Part of Hunter Valley village since the 1850s, Wollombi General Store has long been a place to swing by for a chat, drop off post and trawl antiques. Now, the much-loved bolthole is doubling down on its creative heritage by opening the Artisans Collective – a working space in the old barn behind the store where visitors can converse with local artists while they work. Mosey on in for coffee on the verandah or a scoop of gelato, or to scan shelves filled with local goods.
Address: 2886 Wollombi Rd, Wollombi NSW 2325
Wollombin General Store has goods aplenty.
The Artisan Collective is a space for local artists and visitors to connect.
Enjoy the cosy ambience of Wollombin General Store.
Yum Yum Angourie Cafe & General Store, NSW
Add Yum Yum Angourie Cafe & General Store to your bucket list. (Credit: Destination NSW/Ben Savage)
The Yum Yum Angourie Cafe & General Store was, as the name suggests, originally in Angourie. But owners Chris Todd and Morgan Bramwell-Baker have since moved five clicks away to their new premises, an original Art Deco home in the centre of Yamba. Today, the general store stocks more than staples, with everything from beautifully designed camping gear to candles, books and backpacks. Patrons are a mix of holidaymakers and locals who, thanks to the recent addition of a liquor license, also stop by for a bottle of plonk or a six-pack of local ales. Find them on Instagram at @yumyumangouriecafegeneralstore .
Address: 29 Coldstream St, Yamba NSW 2464
Glenlyon General Store, Vic
Glenlyon General Store near Daylesford. (Credit: Visit Victoria/Safari Global)
While the exterior of the historic 1870s Glenlyon General Store is all timber and tin, the interior is full of treasured photographs that pay homage to Australia’s colonial past – making it one of the top general stores in Australia. Although it’s ostensibly a cafe, the historic store is still a purveyor of everyday items such as bread, fruit and vegetables, honey, pasta and panettone, as well as little luxuries like wine and chocolate. Do clock the community noticeboard, which constitutes a form of sightseeing, as locals promote their colourful side hustles.
Address: 63 Barkly St, Glenlyon VIC 3461
Harcourt Produce & General Store, Vic
Harcourt General Store stocks wines and gourmet produce. (Credit: Visit Victoria/Griffin Simm)
Harcourt Produce & General Store is one of the most beloved general stores in Victoria, and you’d be silly to think otherwise. The community institution, cafe and wine bar not only sells gourmet goods (think preserves from the kitchen garden) to take home but plates up seriously good Danish pastries and pies, making it an obligatory coffee-run destination. For those looking to quench their lunchtime thirst, there’s also craft beer and cider on tap. Follow @harcourtproduce on Instagram for updates.
Address: 115 Harmony Way, Harcourt VIC 3453
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Merricks General Wine Store, Vic
Cosy up by the fire. (Credit: Peter Foster)
Enjoy fine wine and seafood. (Credit: Peter Foster)
Merricks General Wine Store is filled with trinkets and wares. (Credit: Peter Foster)
A heartfelt seasonal menu and cellar door stocking nearby Elgee Park and Baillieu wines are the beginning of what you’ll find at Merricks General Store, tucked away on the Mornington Peninsula. While wine is their bread and butter, make sure to check out Traders Retail Store for local wares and lifestyle pieces. And Merricks House – where you’re sure to leave with a stash of tea towels, fig nut paste, spiced nuts, cuvées bruts and full-bodied olive oils.
This true-as-they-come general store in South Australia’s Clare Valley wine region makes your everyday post run a delight. Find fresh bread, books, tasty tucker and juices, along with eclectic goods and biodynamic produce from Penobscot Farm at the Providore.
Address: 29 Main N Rd, Watervale SA 5452
Bowhill General Store, SA
You could arrive by horse and cart if that’s your jam. But Bowhill General Store on Chucka Bend Road also offers easy access by road or river (the mighty Murray no less). Those enjoying a houseboating holiday can pop in for fuel or emergency cans of baked beans and bottles of booze. Road-trippers can also refuel on coffee and cake while sitting in the sun-drenched courtyard. The general store is old school in its offerings – fuel, gas, ice, beer, spirits and fishing gear – but also up to the minute with its sleek, modern design. Find them on Instagram at @bowhillgeneral .
Address: 28 Chucka Bend Rd, Bowhill SA 5238
The Hearth of Chudleigh, Tas
The Hearth of Chudleigh is a local institution. (Credit: Tourism Tasmania/Adrian Cook)
With its original floorboards, exposed beams and fireplace, the Hearth of Chudleigh doffs its cap to its storied past. The store has been quietly chugging along in Chudleigh since 1886 and, 139 years on, remains a community mainstay as an emporium selling everything from books to antiques. At the centre of the Hearth of Chudleigh is a theatrette space that doubles as a stage fostering local talent and live performances. While you may no longer be able to pick up pantry items for a penny, the mixed business in the ‘Village of Roses’ sells specialty goods such as jam made using locally sourced rosehip.
Address: 60 Sorell St, Chudleigh TAS 7304
Morris Store, Tas
Swing by Morris General Store. (Credit: Tourism Tasmania/Nick Osborne)
Should you find yourself in Tasmania’s coastal town of Swansea, do make sure to drop into Morris Store. This self-proclaimed ‘IGA store with a whole lot more’ has been open since 1838, when John Alexander Graham – the man who wrote the good part of the Tasmanian Local Government Act – established a trade site for his wares. Nowadays, visitors can pick up daily essentials and view relics of the past in the store’s display room.
Address: 13/15 Franklin St, Swansea TAS 7190
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Kandanga Farm Store, Qld
Kandanga Farm Store brings people together.
Pick up gourmet goods. (Credit: Visit Sunshine Coast)
A visit to the Kandanga Farm Store in the Sunshine Coast hinterland is quintessential when on a road trip around Queensland. The farm store doubles as a roadside attraction serving customers from all walks of life, from local farmers to interstate visitors in search of vitamin D. While there are some wares you might expect on the shelves – such as eggs, honey and bread – you will also find specialty goods like locally roasted coffee and organic beef. Van life never looked so good.
Address: 93 Main St, Kandanga QLD 4570
Myalup Beach General Store, WA
Myalup Beach General Store oozes coastal charm. (Credit: Bianca Turri)
Hit the waves, then head to Myalup Beach General Store, the ideal post-surf pit-stop. Located on Myalup Beach Road opposite the Myalup Beach Caravan Park in WA’s Harvey Region, this is where local grommets and weekender families come for trusty takeaway bites, creamy milkshakes and coffee. While you’re at it, stock up on fruit and veg, and bait – the guys at the till dish out some great fishing advice, too, if you ask ’em.
Address: 15-17 Myalup Beach Rd, Myalup WA 6220
General Store Melville, WA
General Store Melville has all your daily essentials and more.
At the crack of dawn, the good people at the General Store Melville are up and ready to open shop at 6am so early-rising locals can get their fix of barista coffee and the freshest farm produce delivered that morning. The shop is best known for its stacked rolls and refreshing açai, with premium fruit and veggies available too.
Address: 6/446 Marmion St, Myaree WA 6154
Tharwa Country Store, ACT
After being owned by the Jeffery family for a century, Tharwa Country Store is soon to welcome an era of new ownership with the family ready to pass on the baton. The weatherboard building along the Murrumbidgee River at the base of Mt Tennent, around 30 minutes out of Canberra, has serviced the local community for generations, along with being a popular stop for road-trippers, day-trippers and motorcyclists. Help keep this village landmark alive by stopping in for an ice cream or old-fashioned lolly bag.
Eleanor Edström is Australian Traveller’s Associate Editor. Previously a staff writer at Signature Luxury Travel & Style and Vacations & Travel magazines, she's a curious wordsmith with a penchant for conservation, adventure, the arts and...
Carla Grossetti avoided accruing a HECS debt by accepting a cadetship with News Corp. at the age of 18. After completing her cadetship at The Cairns Post Carla moved south to accept a position at The Canberra Times before heading off on a jaunt...
There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.
The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.
If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.
Where to stay
The Westin Melbourne
View the city from above in your suite.
Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.
Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.
Where to eat and drink
1. Allegro
Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.
The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.
2. Lobby Lounge
Step into the Lobby Lounge.
Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge .
The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.
For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea . You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.
3. Other places to dine
There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)
Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet , the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.
Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.
Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.
While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.
Things to do
1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces
Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)
Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.
A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.
If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria . The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.
3. Catch some live music
Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)
Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.
Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement , Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar , or larger ones, such as The Toff , Forum and Palais Theatre , for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.
4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG
Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)
The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.
Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.
5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre
Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)
Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.
Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.
