With its geometric patterns and circular roads, Forrest is one of the most quintessentially Canberran suburbs. The area is steeped in history and endlessly picturesque with tree-lined streets. Soon to join the suburb’s rich narrative is Keggins’ brand new development at 11 State Circle, which will draw in elements of the past to create a brand new chapter and welcome new residents.
While Forrest can feel privately tucked away from its surroundings, live here, and you’ll find yourself within a quick five-minute drive of some of Canberra’s rare experiences.
1. Cultural Riches
Beaver Galleries in Deakin. Photography: Tim Bean.
Canberra is home to the country’s national institutions, with most sitting in Forrest’s neighbouring pockets. The area is a hub for incredible and ever-changing galleries, from the National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery, to Beaver Galleries, Megalo Print Studio and Gallery, Photo Access and M16 Artspace.
Discover the source of every coin in Australia at the Royal Australia Mint, or get interactive and unleash your inner scientist at Questacon.
You can also immerse yourself in the Australian story at Parliament House, the High Court, National Archives, National Library, or the Museum of Australian Democracy. Or learn about the intricate beauty of glassmaking at the Canberra Glassworks.
2. Hatted restaurants
OTIS’ acclaimed Pepper Steak. Photography: Tim Bean.
For those nights when you would prefer someone else cooks for you, living in Forrest means counting some of Canberra’s top eateries as your nearby neighbours.
The always stunning Aubergine, Canberra’s most hatted restaurant, is refined, special-occasion dining, while Ottoman Cuisine is a stalwart for a reason, serving elegant Turkish fare. For a more moody affair, settle into the leather dining chairs at OTIS Dining Hall, or pop up on a stool for delectable share plates at Vincent.
Pan-Asian eatery Chairman & Yip is a Canberra institution, while Morks and XO both offer their own take on modern Asian, matched with great wine and even better playlists.
3. Sport and leisure
GoBoats at the Kingston Foreshore. Photography: Lean Timms
Whether it’s the cricket or AFL, when the big matches come to town, they’re held just a stone’s throw away at Manuka Oval. You can get your own heart rate up with a few laps at heritage-listed Manuka Pool, a hit at the Royal Canberra Golf Club, or earn the sweeping panoramic views with a walk up Red Hill.
For something a little different, you can take to the lake via GoBoats, the electric-powered boats moored at Kingston. Don’t forget your picnic.
4. Natural Wonders
Lake Burley Griffin. Photography: Tim Bean.
Forrest may not, in fact, boast its own forest, but opportunities to enjoy the natural surroundings without travelling too far are plentiful.
Canberra’s central masterpiece, Lake Burley Griffin, is equally enjoyable both on and off the water. Go rowing, sailing, or stand-up paddle boarding, or stay dry with a ride, scoot, walk or even Segway around the 40-kilometre shoreline.
Or you could just settle into the rambling parklands and lap up the views from a lakeside picnic. A little further along the lake’s edge is the Jerrabomberra Wetlands, which is a habitat for local birds.
5. Boutique buys and retail therapy
Escala Shoes in Manuka. Photography: Tim Bean.
Need some retail therapy? Find a unique addition to your wardrobe, or beautiful pieces to spruce up your home with at Manuka’s boutiques, like Escala Shoes, Home by Creations, Momento Dezigns or Things of Desire.
For something on the culinary side of things, head to the Fyshwick Fresh Food Markets, where you can stock up on everything from French cheeses, to boutique spirits and craft beers. fresh seafood, high-quality meats and oodles of fresh fruit and vegetables. The Essential Ingredient in Kingston is also a must-visit for gourmands.
Bibliophiles are spoilt for choice with quality bookstores like Paperchain and Muse just minutes from Forrest, and and Art Store at the National Gallery or The Curatoreum at the Portrait Gallery are always a winning spot to find beautiful and unique gifts (or a little something for yourself!).
Unearth your own rare experience
Unearth a rare fusion of space, belonging and design in 11 State Circle’s nine luxury residences, where a Parliamentary Triangle location, expansive three-bedroom, three-bathroom footprint, and exquisite people-centric design combine in perfect harmony.