Princes Park loop walk, Carlton North

Princes Park loop walk, Carlton North created by Jane - Victoria Walks

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Summary

Enjoy a stroll around one of inner-Melbourne's favourite parks. Beautiful, shady Princes Park has great walking paths, lovely trees, dog-friendly spaces, a pond - something for everyone.

Description

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Whether you're after a gentle, aesthetic walk close to the city, want to soak up some AFL history, or let your kids (or your dogs) run wild, then Princes Park is a great option!

Lying just to the north of Melbourne's CBD (and its university and hospital precinct) Princes Park plays host to one of the state's oldest AFL teams, the Carlton Football Club.

Though the stadium looms large at its centre, Princes Park offers up acres of open, green spaces to the public and is popular with joggers, walkers, picnickers and dog walkers. It is easily accessible by public transport.

Getting there: Tram route 19 from the city takes you right along the park's western border. We've elected to start this walk at Ievers Street (stop #17 ). Alternatively you could also use routes 1 or 6 and make your way to the park from Lygon Street.

By train, take the Upfield Line and get off at Royal Park station.

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Points of Interest

1. Plenty of room for walking

Cyclists more often than not use the on-road bike path or the asphalt path, leaving the innermost gravel path completely for walking.

2. Dog off-leash area #1

At the northern end of Princes park you'll find this generous leash-free area if you are travelling with four-legged companions.

3. AFL history

This historic bridge now takes pedestrians over the Capital City bike trail. Take care when leaving the bridge as the path briefly joins the asphalt shared path.

4. The pond (and toilets)

A gorgeous spot to rest with the fountains providing a lovely spectacle. Some public toilets are located to the west of the pond.

5. Statue

This gorgeous little statue is dedicated to the memory of Angela Jane Esdaile. There is a plaque at the bottom where you can learn more about her.

6. Bowls Club

You can book a game of social, barefoot bowls at the website (link below) or perhaps pop in for a drink at the bar.

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7. Lovely houses

Princes Park is popular with lunchtime power walkers and the eastern side along Bowen Crescent is great for harbouring dreams about real estate ...

8. Capital City bike path

Take care as you cross as this path that dissects the park is a popular route for those heading East-West.

9. Little plaground

A little playground for younger tykes.

10. Football stadium

Princes Park no longer hosts AFL games but is a training base for Carlton (and Melbourne Storm) and has been resurrected as a popular venue for the AFLW. It will host the 2018 AFLW grand final.

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11. If you prefer a round ball ...

Take advantage of these handy basketball hoops (there are several along the east side of the stadium).

12. Big playground

City of Melbourne has spent some money recently upgrading the equipment at this great playground, a meeting spot for local parents' groups.

13. Melbourne General Cemetery

History buffs may enjoy a detour through the cemetery (the you take official tours too).

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14. Avenue of Moreton Bay Figs

If you love these majestic trees this is great area to see mature and relatively baby-sized Moreton Bay Figs!

15. Dog off-leash area #2

Another generous area for dog walkers.

16. Historic sports pavillions

Stop to admire the gorgeous Art Deco-stylings of these sports pavillions, now used by sporting clubs from nearby universities.

17. Toilets

Some modern toilets are located next to the pavillions.

18. Great walking paths

Dappled shade is a feature of the paths at the western side of Princes Park.

19. Heading home or further afield?

Head back to the #19 tram route into the city (or north to Brunswick and Coburg) - or you may want to venture west across Royal Parade to Royal Park and Melbourne Zoo!

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