Central Gardens

Central Gardens sits on Henry Street in Hawthorn, a leafy, established inner-eastern suburb of Melbourne. A lovely public garden, it's a much-loved local green space — combining manicured lawns, garden beds, mature trees and walking paths with playgrounds and open areas, all in a peaceful, well-kept setting.

The appeal is that combination of beautiful, well-maintained gardens and relaxed amenity: room to stroll, picnic and relax, pretty plantings to enjoy, and playgrounds and open space that make it a popular family destination. It's a tranquil, welcoming pocket of green that's become a genuine asset for the Hawthorn community.

With a 4.6 rating from more than 900 reviews, it's a firm local favourite. The gardens are free and open year-round, but facilities and any seasonal plantings vary, so it's worth checking the surrounds before a special trip — though for a stroll among the gardens, a picnic, a play or some quiet time outdoors, you can generally just turn up and enjoy this lovely Hawthorn green space.