BANK PLACE, MELBOURNE

Bank Place is one of Melbourne's picturesque laneways. It is a short, narrow lane, running south from Little Collins Street between Queen Street and William Street in the central business district of Melbourne. Located in the heart of the financial sector, Bank Place (which incorporates several smaller lanes, such as Mitre Lane) is an oasis of heritage buildings dating from the 1860s through to the 1920s. Looking north, a vista is framed by Normanby Chambers.

The precinct is subject to heritage restrictions, and some of the significant buildings include: Mitre Tavern, historic pub established in 1868 and remodelled in the Queen Anne style between 1900 and 1910. Mitre Tavern was a popular 'bohemian' hangout for many of Australia's most prominent artists of the early twentieth century, alongside the neighbouring Savage Club.

12-16 Bank Place was built 1884 - 85 for Australia's first baronet Sir William Clarke. His son, Sir Rupert Clarke's mistress Connie Waugh is said to have lived there. The Melbourne Savage Club purchased the building in 1923. The building is classified by the National Trust of Australia (Victoria).

Stalbridge Chambers (1891) corner of Little Collins.

Bank House, 11-19 Bank Place Melbourne, built for businessman Charles Victor Robertson to house his Hemingway Robertson Institute.

The lane also includes several ornate heritage lamp posts and bluestone alleys. It is home to several bars and cafés which serve many of the nearby office workers. Many of the taller old buildings have been converted into loft style apartments.

This post is part of the Challenge Walk in the Street meme.