Although it began as a rural outpost scattered with ‘gentleman’s estates’, Newtown became increasingly populous with the coming of the railway in 1855. The Municipality of Newtown was proclaimed in 1862. By the 1870s, it was one of the most densely populated municipalities in NSW.

“King-street Newtown is always more or less busy, but on Saturday night it is seen at its best and brightest. Fancy a double line, more than a mile long, of brilliantly lighted shops; and ‘side-walks’ so inconveniently crowded, that it is often a matter of some difficulty to push one’s way through the throng of people on business and on pleasure bent.” (Illustrated Sydney News, 27 June 1889).

King Street still hums, and today Newtown is one of Sydney’s most vibrant and gritty inner-city suburbs.

This tour, based on City of Sydney's Newtown Project, will guide you through the history of Newtown. There are cafés and restaurants along the way. Please allow 1 to 2 hours for this tour.