Situated some 11 km southeast of Melbourne CBD, Brighton is a residential bayside located on the eastern coast of Port Philip Bay.
In 1841 the British Government authorised the sale of 5,120 acres of land at one pound and acre in what was to become suburbs of metropolitan Melbourne. Hendy Dendy invested in the land, now called Brighton, in March 1841. Bounded by the coastline, North Road, East Boundary Road and South Road, the land was subdivided for the expected flow of immigrants; few purchased and the scheme fell over, with Dendy dying a pauper. With generous blocks and the prospect of seawater bathing, Brighton attracted wealthy residents and soon became the 3rd most populated town in Port Phillip. By 1887 to town had some 100 different shops, along Bay Street, Church Street and the Nepean Highway.
Today, with large homes and gardens and few apartments, Brighton real estate is regarded as the prime bayside suburb of Melbourne and is home to many of Melbourne's professionals.
Church Street in Brighton offers up market shopping, excellent cafes and restaurants and is often favourably compared to Toorak Village. With extensive recreational space along he foreshore of Port Philip Bay, municipal baths are near the pier, the Yacht Club and the last private bathing boxes on the Dendy Street Beach, Brighton has retained its unique character. Brighton has excellent access to the attractions of Melbourne: the MCG, Melbourne Convention Centre, theatres and shows, Melbourne shops and markets, especially the world famous Queen Victoria Markets; a cacophony of sounds, colours and taste with wonderful fresh foods and bargains in abundance.
