About this place
What to expect
Guildford is one of Western Australia's oldest towns and listed on the State Register of Heritage Places. With its village charm, colonial architecture, and vibrant antique, homewares, and café scene, Guildford is the ideal place to explore on foot. Discover the stories behind this heritage-rich town via four self-guided heritage walk trails, each starting and ending at the Old Guildford Courthouse - now home to the Swan Valley Visitor Centre. Pick up or download a Guildford Mandoon Heritage Walk Trail map to begin your journey. Follow the black arrows for The Stirling Square Circuit (450 metres, 20 minutes), perfect for those with limited time or mobility to explore the Colonial Gaol, Old Courthouse and the Mechanics Institute. From there, head into Stirling Square, a beautiful village green lined with towering sugar gums and fragrant rose gardens. Along the way, encounter key heritage landmarks, including the War Memorial and the striking 10th Light Horse Regiment statue, honouring Guildford's military history. The trail also passes by St Matthew's Church, a grand example of Gothic Revival architecture, built at the centre of Guildford in line with traditional English town planning. The square itself has long served as a traditional Aboriginal meeting place, adding deeper cultural significance to the area. Interpretive panels throughout provide rich insights into Guildford's layered past, making this gentle walk a must for all.