Royal Arcade

Overview

The Royal Arcade is Melbourne's oldest surviving arcade, opened in 1870, and the longest-running shopping arcade in Australia. Its distinctive black-and-white chequered floor and ornate cast-iron details make it an architectural landmark.

Highlights

• Gog and Magog: Two giant mechanical figures flanking Gaunt's Clock at the arcade's southern entrance, striking the hours since 1892.
• Heritage Shopfronts: Beautifully preserved timber-and-glass shopfronts house independent retailers, jewellers, and specialty stores.
• Gaunt's Clock: An ornamental clock installed in 1892, still keeping time above the entrance.

History

Designed by Charles Webb and opened in 1870, the Royal Arcade is one of the earliest surviving examples of arcade shopping in the world. The Gog and Magog figures are replicas of those at the Guildhall in London.

Visitor Tips

• Clock Chime: Time your visit to see Gog and Magog strike the hour.
• Specialty Shops: Look for niche Australian designers and artisan chocolatiers that have traded here for decades.
• Duration: 15–20 minutes.