Sometimes the best discoveries come not from guidebooks, but from locals. This one landed in my lap thanks to Michelle, a member of the Pantry community, who shared a lovingly compiled map of Birdwood's shops created by her friend Cheryl. Most of us know Birdwood for the National Motor Museum, but this guide proves the town is just as rich in quirky shops, creative makers and second-hand surprises. Here is how to spend a day in Birdwood, the locals' way.
BIRDWOOD, THE LOCALS' WAY
Four easy stops from Cheryl's map
1. Start with coffee
Choose between Lovells Bakery, Tony 2 Times, Blumberg Bakery & Cafe, or The Fold Cafe with its shady garden. Any of them is a good place to ease into the day.
2. Then wander Shannon Street
Shannon Street holds a string of discoveries: River T for gifts and stationery, Bra-Fitting Wisdom for personal fittings and swimwear, Gecko Leather Shed and McNeil Garden Art if their signs are out, and Jaybax Wood Turner for handcrafted wooden toys.
3. Pause for lunch
Settle in at the Blumberg Hotel for a pub meal, or circle back to the bakeries for something lighter. Either way, it is an easy mid-day reset before the afternoon's browsing.
4. Spend the afternoon browsing
Antique hunters will love Treasures on Torrens and Rose Cottage. The Community Book Shed inside the Institute Hall is a must-stop for readers. Top of the Torrens Art Gallery is both a showcase for local talent and the town's information hub. To round it out with craft, if you book ahead, Suncraft Shades will create something just for you, from lampshades to fitted caravan sheets.
THANKS TO CHERYL AND MICHELLE
A big thank you to Cheryl and Michelle for reminding us that Birdwood is not just about motors. It can be a great day out of wandering, sipping, chatting and finding treasures special to this part of the Northern Adelaide Hills.
Header photo: Peripitus via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0. Body photo: RegionVisitor90 via Wikimedia Commons, CC0.