Spend a Day In & Around Newcastle’s Hunter St Mall

This little gem has only just popped up in the Hunter Street Mall and it’s definitely worth checking out! The Lair is an eclectic mix of fashion for men and women but there are also some other goodies inside (sweet accessories!). Think Pink Metal meets ABICUS.

If you haven’t yet found this Saunders family (Antique Sounds) business you need to get there! The Odditorium isn’t a shop, it’s an experience. Art, vintage clothing, dead things and vinyl records are all to be found in this split level basement store. If you’re looking for anything from a gas mask to a stuffed ferret the Odditorium is the shop for you.

By now everyone in Newcastle should know about One Penny Black. It is the number one place in the mall to fill up on beautiful food and world class coffee. The staff are friendly and the vibe is awesome. Be sure to pick up a frequent sipper card and maybe even some stationery. The toasties are also highly recommended.

Once you’ve had a bite to eat at One Penny Black be sure to pop into Make Space, just next door. Make Space is a collection of handmade jewellery, men's, women's and children’s clothing, bags and homewares. There is something for everyone and it’s a great place to pick up a gift for someone special.

Frost&Roxburgh; Studios is the collaborative effort of local photographers Naomi Frost and Xanthe Roxburgh. The pair create quirky, quizzical and sometimes questionable works of art! If you feel like being a model for a day and you’re not getting married (yes they do weddings) I highly recommend a Frameshift session for something a little different. If not go join them for a game of ping pong or a coffee!

If you’re into natural alternatives be sure to check out the Happy Herb Shop which is located just off the eastern end of the mall. It’s the place where tea becomes catnip and energy drinks become lollipops. The Happy Herb Shop stocks a range of herbs for health, energy, love, relaxation and partying. You can also pick up some pretty sweet tie-dyed threads or a head massager.

Shannon Hartigan is a local panoramic landscape photographer. His shop is full of beautiful prints on both canvas and photographic paper. They make great show pieces for your home. Shannon also provides custom framing and printing services.

Speaking of beautiful pieces for your home, many can be found at Villa Clone. Be sure to have a chat to Brian when you pop in to peruse the vast range of leather goods, homewares and art works. There’s something for people off all tastes and budgets.