The Iglu Guide | Blog
The best student hangouts in Chatswood
Well connected, diverse and entertaining, students living in Chatswood have it pretty good when it comes to getting out and about.
A well-known shopping mecca with a thriving foodie scene on tap, here in Chatswood you’ll taste some of the very best in authentic Asian food outlets from Chinese, Korean and Japanese through to Thai, Malaysian and Vietnamese.
And when it all gets too much, you can regain your inner peace with a nearby bushwalk. Who knew?
Chatswood Mall Markets
Conveniently running between Chatswood station and Anderson Street, Chatswood Mall Markets are the perfect way to shop – without feeling like we’re really shopping. Escape the frenzied interiors of Westfield, Chatswood Chase and Lemon Grove, and enjoy the fresh open-air sprawl of independent market stalls. Selling a range of fun and eclectic goods, both new and second hand, you can browse for handicrafts, artisan goods, clothes and jewellery – or just enjoy the live music, the moment and the vibe. Open every Thursday and Friday from 9am-9pm, grab some mates and chow down on fresh paella, steaming gozleme, sweet treats and much, much more. The options are budget-friendly and deliciously endless.
Ferndale Park
Head just 10-minutes’ walk away from the station and you’ll stumble across Ferndale Park. This peaceful tree-lined retreat has a number of walking trails on offer for students that are keen to escape the books and the urban surrounds. Surprisingly close to the centre, the park ferns and vegetation are a pleasant reminder of Chatswood in times past and it can feel a world away from your student life. The Ferndale Park bushwalking loop is actually part of a bigger Railway to River walk that will take you all the way to Lane Cove River. Starting at Chatswood Station, you’ll meander happily through woodland, streets and riverside communities and can inhale the difference as you pass through – completely free of charge. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy more of the same including camping and BBQs in Lane Cove National Park.
Yum Cha
Thinking Yum Cha? Think Chatswood. Everyone needs a break and when the study’s heating up and you’re looking for the perfect Yum Cha venue, Chatswood will not disappoint. Try out New Shanghai where you can watch the chefs in action and enjoy a delicious range of dumplings. This newbie has caused quite a stir and it’s very easy to see why. For Yum Cha with a twist, check out Mama Mulan at The Concourse. Serving up all the old favourites sitting alongside newer takes, this contemporary Chinese arrival offers a refreshing blend of traditional techniques and modern flair.
The Concourse
Chatswood’s renowned cultural centre, The Concourse, features a 500-seater theatre alongside a 1,000-seater concert hall, multi-purpose exhibition space as well as a rotating art gallery. Home to Chatswood Library – one of the largest on the North Shore – the Willoughby Symphony and Willoughby Choir, students are incredibly lucky to have this cultural complex within fingertip reach. Hang out at the Urban Screen, an outdoor space streaming digital art, movies and more, or enjoy the retail, cafés and two open green spaces with friends at your leisure.
The Orchard Tavern
Handily situated next to the station and a quick 5-minute walk away from Iglu Chatswood, The Orchard Tavern is the place to hang out for the very best in contemporary food served in a traditional pub setting. Boasting no less than 5 bars, a beer garden, courtyard and VIP lounge, there’s space to get together with your mates – and space to be apart. Head down for some live sport or get stuck into the Monday night Trivia complete with prizes and bragging rights. Protect your budget with the weekly specials and don’t miss out on a bargain $5 taco every Tuesday.
