A charming small town with a maritime past.
Williamstown has an average violent crime rate and an average property crime rate for Melbourne.
Williamstown is a picturesque town occupying a small peninsula just 5 km across the bay from central Melbourne. Williamstown served as Melbourne's port until the Yarra River was widened for shipping in the 1880s and it was even the capital of Victoria at one point. It then became a bustling shipyard and has churned out many of Australia's military ships over the years.
It's hard to imagine its industrial past, however. These days 'Willy', as it's known to locals (Aussies really do shorten everything), is a charming waterfront suburb. The historic district draws crowds on sunny weekends, but during the week this is a mellow place. Residents talk about it feeling like you live in a resort town and it's got a strong sense of community.
There's a lot going on here: over 100 restaurants, a handful of pubs and bars, good shopping, art galleries, and a couple museums. Must of its waterfront is parkland and its got a nice beach. For those with children, you'll find several excellent primary and secondary schools.
Most of the housing here consists of cute Victorian-style cottages on tree-lined streets. Bigger, more modern homes are available close to the water.
Williamstown is well-served by public transit and you can be in the CBD via train in 30 minutes.
Williamstown is bordered on the north by Newport, on the east and south by Port Phillip Bay, and on the east by Altona and Williamstown North.
Williamstown LOCAL schools
Photo Credits: Thanks to @bunchrides, @mishaberez, @fionaaaa_zzh, @elisegowphotography, @robbiepoet, @canberragirladventures, @archdose, @eunchul29, @kartia.k, @brianjhill1, @crudstick, @tsavagephoto, @janeyc_, @ducnamnguyen, and @natsuko_amaryllis for your great photos of this neighborhood!
