Block Arcade & Royal Arcade
Block Arcade / Royal Arcade
A 19th-century Victorian shopping arcade with mosaic floors, a glass-roofed ceiling and a century-old tearoom, offering a glimpse of the city's prosperity in the gold rush era.
The Block Arcade opened in 1892 and is known for its Italian mosaic tiles and etched-glass roof. Hopetoun Tea Rooms, which has served customers continuously since 1892, is a photo spot, especially for its cakes in the window. The Royal Arcade opened in 1869 and is the oldest surviving arcade in Australia. At its entrance, the mythical giants Gog and Magog strike the bells of the clock. The two arcades are about 100 metres apart and free to visit, located between Bourke Street Mall and Collins Street.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–18:00 (extended on Fridays)
Nearby sights
- Degraves Street & Centre Place
- City Circle Tram (Route 35)
- Flinders Street Station & Federation Square
- Hosier Lane
- Chinatown, Melbourne
- Melbourne Skydeck (Eureka Tower)
- State Library Victoria
- Old Melbourne Gaol