Discover The Strand Arcade in Sydney
"The finest public thoroughfare in the Australian colonies."
In Sydney’s CBD, The Strand Arcade is a staple of the city’s shopping scene, and has been since the late 19th century. As the last remaining Victorian-style arcade in Sydney still in its original form, this three-story structure wows visitors with its ornate design and meticulous restorations. Details include cedar staircases, cast iron balusters, tiled floors, and timber-framed shop fronts, all crowned by a magnificent glass roof that bathes the interiors in natural light. These classic elements are paired with a unique collection of premium Australian brands and artisanal stores. With millions of annual visitors, The Strand Arcade continues to be more than a shopping destination—it’s a celebration of Sydney’s style and culture.
The Birth of The Strand Arcade
Designed by English architect John Spencer with assistance from Charles Fairfax, The Strand Arcade was built in 1891 by Bignell and Clark. Stretching 104 meters between Pitt and George Streets it was Sydney’s longest arcade at the time.
The arcade was named after London’s Strand, a famous thoroughfare known for its elegant shopping and entertainment venues. True to its namesake, Sydney’s Strand Arcade was crafted as an opulent and modern shopping destination. Fluted columns, delicately crafted iron railings, and hand-carved cedar balustrades brought a sense of classical sophistication, contrasting with other arcades built around the same time.
During its grand opening in 1892, the arcade was described by The Sydney Mail as a blend of European influences combined to create an atmosphere of strength and elegance. The arcade’s luxurious feel and prominent location soon made it one of the most frequented shopping destinations of its time.
Design and Construction of The Strand Arcade
The Strand Arcade’s original design emphasized both functionality and beauty. The main concourse features cantilevered galleries on each side, connected by elegant bridges on the upper levels and topped with a magnificent glass roof. This design allowed natural light to flood the upper levels, which was especially beneficial for the photography studios located there.
With three stories of soaring ceilings and arched galleries, the arcade provided much-needed space for pedestrians and retailers. This spacious design was particularly valuable at a time when street awnings were uncommon, as it offered shelter from the intense Australian sun and Sydney’s frequent rains.
The arcade’s construction incorporated stuccoed brick, cast iron, and timber-framed shopfronts, giving it the appearance of a Victorian terrace street. Neo-classical cast-iron columns and intricately laced ornamental designs cast beautiful shadows across the tiled floors, while chandeliers that combined gas and electric lamps added to its interior elegance.
Challenging Times: From the Depression to Fires
The Strand Arcade has faced several challenges since its opening in 1892, having endured two World Wars, economic downturns, and multiple fires. In the early 20th century, the arcade became known as a “browser’s paradise,” where you could find anything from stamp and book specialists to milliners and jewellers.
The 1970s, however, brought challenging times. In 1976, a devastating fire nearly destroyed the arcade. Recognizing the arcade’s value, a restoration was arranged which repaired the building's original architecture, chandeliers, hydraulic lifts, tiled floors, and cast-iron and cedar details. By 1977, The Strand Arcade was once again open to the public.
In Popular Culture
The Strand Arcade’s distinctive character has made it a favored location in pop culture. It notably featured in David Bowie’s 1983 music video for Let’s Dance, where its grand architecture was offered up to be admired by a global audience. Additionally, scenes from the television series JAG were filmed inside the arcade, highlighting its iconic status in Sydney.
The Strand Arcade Today
Unlike other arcades of its time, Sydney's Strand Arcade has managed to maintain its original character without radical alterations. This has earnt it a place on the New South Wales State Heritage Register.
Today, The Strand Arcade continues to provide a sanctuary for shopaholics in Sydney. It contains a mix of Australian designer boutiques, specialty shops, and artisan stores. This carefully curated selection includes celebrated fashion labels like Scanlan Theodore and Dion Lee, as well as timeless brands such as Aesop and Dinosaur Designs.
Traditional craftsmanship finds a home here too. Long-standing tenants like The Nut Shop, which has been part of The Strand since 1939, keeps tradition alive and boutiques like Strand Hatters and shoemaker Andrew McDonald continue to make bespoke and handcrafted items.
The Arcade’s renowned reputation also extends to dining, with award-winning establishments like The Restaurant Pendolino offering refined, flavorful dishes.
Shopping at The Strand Arcade in Sydney
The Strand Arcade, open daily, is centrally located near George Street and Pitt Street Mall, making it easily accessible for tourists and locals. Whilst we urge you to take advantage of the arcade’s many offerings both in terms of fashion and food, it is also important to remember that this is more than a retail destination; it is a piece of Sydney’s heritage.
Levels and Layout
The ground level is home to a mix of fashion and specialty stores, while the middle level is bustling with well-known department brands. The top level is where you’ll find unique artisans like shoemakers, wedding dress designers, and barbers, some of whom even display traditional tools and allow glimpses into their craft.
Opening Hours
- Weekdays: 9:00am – 5:30pm
- Saturday 9:00am – 4:00pm
- Sunday 11:00am – 4:00pm
Please note: Level 1 and Level 2 open from 10:00 am Monday to Saturday and Level 2 trading hours vary on Sunday. Please check with individual stores for Sunday trading hours.
Clothing and Shoes
Iconic women’s fashion can be found at stores like Alex Perry, Dion Lee, and the Amy Taylor Collection, which cater to modern tastes and timeless styles. Men’s fashion is also well-represented, with bespoke offerings from The Suit Shop, Mister Mister, and Declic.
For those seeking versatile fashion, stores like Jac + Jack and Bassike offer collections that appeal to a broad clientele and shoe lovers can explore Diesel, Josephs Shoes, Camilla and Marc, and Andrew McDonald Shoemaker.
Accessorizing at The Strand
If you’re on the hunt for accessories, the Strand Arcade has you covered with stores like Dustin’s Jewellers for exquisite jewelry pieces, and Hunt Leather, which specializes in luxurious leather bags and wallets. A-Esque is a highlight for fashionable handbags and purses. Other options include Crumpler for bags and Zappacosta Jewels for unique jewelry.
Dining and Sweet Treats
After shopping, you can indulge in the arcade’s food offerings. Stop by The Nut Shop, a staple in Sydney for decades, known for its variety of nuts and candied treats. Haigh’s Chocolates is perfect for chocolate lovers, and Romolo Espresso e Cucina provides a relaxing spot for a coffee break.
Explore Beyond The Strand Arcade with CityDays
After picking out your new wardrobe at The Strand Arcade, why not continue your exploration of Sydney with CityDays?
CityDays provides a range of scavenger hunts and treasure hunts throughout Sydney, designed for team-building and adventure.
Since you’re already in the CBD, our Secrets of the CBD Hunt is the perfect way to experience the area, promising an afternoon of great fun and adventure, solving clues and snapping photos. Clues will lead you to the big sights and those that you'd walk straight past.
And the fun isn’t limited to Sydney—CityDays offers these dynamic hunts across the world, giving you a chance to engage in memorable adventures wherever you go.
For more information about our Sydney Scavenger Hunts then click here: Sydney Scavenger & Treasure Hunts | CityDays.
