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Government House

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Government House

Government House, in its various forms, has been the principal Vice Regal residence in Western Australia since 1829. The location for the first Governor's residence was originally a tent camp set up on Garden Island, before a temporary wooden building was established in what is now Stirling Gardens. The first permanent Government House was built in the current Gardens on a site closer to the existing Lodge, but was replaced by the current building in 1863, which has been the residence of every Governor of Western Australia since. The style of the building is described as 'Fonthill Gothic'. The bricks came from clay pits that were located near where Queen's Gardens in East Perth are today. A Foundation Stone for the current Government House was laid on March 17, 1859, and you can still see it today on the exterior wall of the Governor's Office on the Forecourt façade. Government House, Ballroom and Gardens were listed on the WA Register of Heritage Places and classified by the National Trust in the early 1990's. Government House serves as both the residence of the Governor and as a working entity known as the Governor's Establishment with a small workforce which supports the Governor and his role.

Perth WA

0.1 km away

Stirling Gardens

Parks and Gardens

Stirling Gardens

Take some time out on your next visit to the bustling city centre to explore the tranquil Stirling Gardens. Opened as a botanical garden in 1845, they offer beautiful shade, well-kept lawns, and an extensive range of plants and trees. There are also several interesting sculptures, including the Ore Obelisk, kangaroo sculptures, Snugglepot and Cuddlepie and a serene water feature. Stirling Gardens honours the name of Sir James Stirling, who fought long and hard for the establishment of a settlement in Western Australia. Enjoy wandering through the gardens and take the opportunity to ponder the relationship between art, culture, industry and nature. Stirling Gardens is located at the corner of Barrack Street and St Georges Terrace, Perth.

Perth WA

0.2 km away

St Georges Cathedral — Image credit: City of Perth

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Cathedral Square

Experience the beating heart of the city at Cathedral Square, a heritage-listed precinct that has beautifully returned the soul of Perth to its people after decades of disuse. At its core sit the majestic, 140-year-old State Buildings. These three interconnected landmark structures once housed the Treasury, the Premier's office, the Lands Titles building, and the historic General Post Office. Notably, the southeast corner features the iconic Point Zero marker, the official 1925 benchmark from which all global distances to Perth are measured. The masterfully executed revitalisation replaced the old Law Chambers and Playhouse Theatre with a vibrant, open, and interactive public plaza. This beautifully landscaped urban space seamlessly connects St George's Cathedral, the State Buildings, and the contemporary City of Perth Library. Today, the square acts as a lively, collective cultural destination. Visitors can explore a carefully curated selection of boutique retail stores, luxury artisan wares, and award-winning dining spaces, alongside an annual calendar of public events spanning arts, culture, and live entertainment. Centrally located between Hay Street and St Georges Terrace, this precinct is free to access 24/7, offering a premier lifestyle hub for travelers and locals alike. The entire square is wheelchair accessible and sits immediately adjacent to major CBD public transit routes, hotels, and parking.

Perth WA

0.2 km away

Point Zero — Image credit: City of Perth

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Point Zero

Uncover the geographic center of Western Australia at Point Zero, a historic marker nestled in the vibrant Cathedral Square precinct. Positioned on the southeast corner of the grand Old Treasury building, this symbolic site serves as the official benchmark from which all distances to and from Perth are measured—both across the state and worldwide. The site's significance dates back to the late 19th century when the building operated as Western Australia's very first General Post Office. While the post office closed its doors in 1923, the location was formally designated as the city's distance marker two years later, in 1925. A commemorative plaque was laid in 1975 to permanently honour its role as the civic heart of the city. Today, Point Zero anchors the beautifully revitalised State Buildings complex, linking Perth's foundational colonial history with contemporary retail, luxury dining, and cultural lifestyle spaces. Completely free to access 24/7, this unassuming pocket of history is an essential, quick photo-stop for walking tours, history buffs, and curious travelers looking to stand exactly where the story of modern Perth begins.

Perth WA

0.2 km away

St George's Cathedral — Image credit: City of Perth

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

St George's Cathedral

St George's Cathedral is the principal Anglican cathedral of Western Australia and the central church of the Diocese of Perth. Built by convicts and consecrated in 1888, it stands as one of the few cathedrals constructed entirely from handmade bricks, making it a remarkable architectural treasure. Designed in the Gothic revival style, the cathedral showcases uniquely Western Australian materials—including jarrah timber roof trusses and arches, Fremantle limestone, and bricks made in three historic brickyards along the Swan River. For over 120 years, St George's Cathedral has been a striking landmark in Cathedral Square, offering both spiritual sanctuary and architectural beauty. Inside, visitors will find a vibrant Christian community that welcomes people of all ages, with traditional Anglican worship and inspiring preaching. The cathedral provides a peaceful retreat amid the city bustle, inviting reflection, connection, and celebration. Whether you are exploring Perth's historic sites or seeking a place for worship, St George's Cathedral stands as a symbol of faith, craftsmanship, and the enduring spirit of the city.

Perth WA

0.2 km away

The Deanery — Image credit: City of Perth

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

The Deanery

The Deanery has housed generations of Deans over its history and is now the hub of the St George’s Cathedral administration. Built in 1859 as a residence and office for the first Dean of Perth, the Reverend George Purves Pownall, the Deanery served as a residence for over 90 years, until it was threatened with demolition in 1953. Public appeals to save it were successful and the Deanery was modernised and used as an office and residence for the Dean’s secretary, the assistant priests and their families. In 1979 the building was extensively restored and reopened in 1982. It has been used as the Cathedral offices since then.

Perth WA

0.2 km away

Supreme Court Gardens

Parks and Gardens

Supreme Court Gardens

The Supreme Court Gardens were officially opened in 1845 as a botanical garden. They are well located facing the river and are semi-enclosed by a beautiful range of mature trees and well-manicured gardens. With expansive lawns and a convenient location in the centre of the city, the gardens are popular for events such as Opera in the Park and Carols by Candlelight. Whilst visiting the gardens, check out the city's original Court House which was built in 1836 and is next to the Supreme Court building. It has been restored to its original condition, complete with a wood shingled roof, and now houses a small museum. Find a nice quiet spot to sit under a tree and enjoy the river outlook, or the city skyline, whilst soaking up a bit of quiet time away from the bustle of the city centre. The Supreme Court Gardens are located on the corner of Barrack Street and Riverside Drive, Perth.

Perth WA

0.2 km away

The Bell Tower Exterior — Image credit: The Bell Tower

Galleries, Museums and Collections

The Bell Tower

From the towering glass spire of the Bell Tower, one of the largest musical instruments in the world fills Perth City with its chimes. The bells are the original (circa Fourteenth Century) bells of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church, the parish church of Buckingham Palace in Trafalgar Square, London. It's one of the few places on Earth where interactive demonstrations allow visitors to see the ancient art of bell ringing in action and have a go at ringing the bells. In addition to the St. Martin bells, the Bell Tower recently installed the ANZAC Bell. It's the largest bell of its kind ever made in Australia and was cast in Perth. The ANZAC Bell is expected to last over 500 years and weighs 6,500 kilograms. The interpretive displays share some impressive insights into the history of the bells and bell ringing. The open-air observation deck is perched on the sixth floor and boasts stunning views of the Swan River and the City. This award-winning attraction is located in Barrack Square, where the City meets the Swan River and is just a five-minute stroll from the City Centre making it one of the most visited must-see attractions in Perth.

Perth WA

0.2 km away

Postage Hall

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

State Buildings

Beneath the soaring archways of the iconic State Buildings, new life is being breathed into a collection of iconic heritage buildings that will revive the civic heart of Perth. The former government buildings have been reimagined, re-invigorated and returned as a vibrant hub of retail, dining and hotel offerings. The three interconnected heritage buildings known as the State Buildings sit on the corner of St Georges Terrace and Barrack Street in the centre of Perth. Over their 140-year history, they’ve been used as Public Offices, a Police Court and cell block, a Treasury, a Survey Department, a General Post Office, Immigration Offices, Office of the Premier and Cabinet, a Lands Department and Titles Building – but have been empty and unused since the government vacated the buildings twenty years ago. The centrepiece of the historic Cathedral Square precinct, the State Buildings will become the heartbeat of a new urban neighbourhood, connecting pedestrians with the drinking, dining and retail offerings inside. The buildings will house outstanding craftsmen, artisans and makers, passionate about their products and fiercely proud of their West Australian heritage.

Perth WA

0.2 km away

Burt Memorial Hall — Image credit: City of Perth

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Burt Memorial Hall

Discover a vital piece of Western Australia's civic history at the Burt Memorial Hall, a beautiful community building standing proudly in the centre of Perth's Cathedral Square precinct. Positioned adjacent to St George's Cathedral, this historic landmark was constructed in the elegant Gothic Revival style. It serves as a lasting symbol of Perth's prominent Burt family, who played a deeply significant role in the government of the Swan River Colony during its foundational years. Following decades of wear, the building underwent a meticulous, sympathetic restoration as part of the broader Cathedral Restoration Project, officially reopening its doors to the public in 2014. Today, the revitalised space functions as a versatile and vibrant hub for the local community, regularly hosting a diverse variety of Cathedral and diocesan functions, public receptions, educational workshops, school group visits, and rotating cultural exhibitions. Located at 38a St Georges Terrace, this heritage-listed gem is an essential stop for architectural enthusiasts, historians, and tourists exploring the city's foundational colonial roots. While the hall's interior access is primarily subject to scheduled events, functions, and exhibitions, its striking exterior can be admired free of charge 24/7. The fully accessible venue is perfectly situated steps away from premium precinct dining, central CBD public transit hubs, and the historic Perth Town Hall.

Perth WA

0.2 km away

Dirty Deeds — Image credit: Dion Photography 2016

Landmarks and Buildings

Dirty Deeds

Uncover a fascinating, hidden layer of Western Australia's criminal justice history at Dirty Deeds, an evocative, site-specific public artwork located in the heart of Perth's Cathedral Square precinct. Fronting Barrack Street at the Perth Town Hall end of the State Buildings, the piece is situated exactly where the city's first Police Court operated back in the 1870s. The clever installation maps out the real-world boundaries of the court's two original holding cells, which commentators in the 19th-century press heavily criticized as "miserable little boxes" due to their severe lack of light and ventilation. Today, the stark physical footprint of these cramped cells is intricately etched directly into the granite paving, including the exact positioning of their entry doors and tiny windows. To bring this grim space to life, the artists meticulously combed through original archival records of the Police Court News to uncover and display the actual names, sentences, and misdeeds of the real historical detainees once held there. Completely free to explore 24/7, this thought-provoking installation directly connects the modern, award-winning Petition Kitchen dining area with its raw colonial past. The entire outdoor plaza is wheelchair accessible and serves as an unmissable, highly educational stop for urban heritage trails, walking tours, and history buffs navigating the central business district.

Perth WA

0.2 km away

Ascalon — Image credit: City of Perth

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Ascalon

Marvel at Ascalon, a commanding public artwork standing proudly on the forecourt of St George's Cathedral within Perth's Cathedral Square precinct. Unveiled in 2011, this striking, billowing white contemporary sculpture was co-created by renowned Western Australian artists Marcus Canning and Christian de Vietri to serve as a fittingly powerful statement for this historic civic space. As an abstract interpretation of the classic legend of St George and the dragon, the sculpture delivers a magnificent visual depiction of the universal triumph of good over evil. The artwork's towering, angled pole and dramatic white billow represent St George's righteous lance, cloak, and steed. Contrastingly, its heavily faceted black base is deeply reminiscent of the defeated body of the dragon. Its unique name is taken directly from the name of St George's lance in medieval romances—itself a derivation of the historic city of Ashkelon in Israel. Positioned centrally at 1 Cathedral Avenue, this iconic open-air landmark is completely free to experience 24/7. At night, it features dramatic illumination, making it a spectacular photo opportunity for architecture enthusiasts, art lovers, and inner-city walking tours. The sculpture is situated just steps away from premium dining options, public transit hubs, and the adjacent historic Perth Town Hall.

Perth WA

0.2 km away

Cathedral Square Lawn — Image credit: City of Perth

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Art Collective WA

Immerse yourself in regional creativity at Art Collective WA, a premier artist-run gallery nestled in Perth's Cathedral Square. Established in 2013, this unique, not-for-profit organisation champions long-term career artists who have lived and worked in Western Australia for many years. Operating with a collaborative group approach, the collective provides critical career infrastructure, presenting members and invited guests through a dynamically rotating annual program. Beyond its physical concrete-and-glass gallery floor, Art Collective WA extends its reach globally by showcasing local talent at major international art fairs, including Art Stage Singapore and Sydney Contemporary, alongside strategic regional partnerships with the Holmes à Court Gallery, Geraldton, and Bunbury Regional Art Galleries. The gallery also drives the preservation of regional art history. Through its celebrated Collective Conversations podcast series and the publication of substantial artist monographs, it successfully projects Western Australian visual art into a global contemporary context. The Collective Conversations and Book Club are a deliberate contribution to the art history of Western Australia. Artist interviews are recorded for posterity and made available as podcasts and substantial artist monographs are published. Both these initiatives firmly place the artists and their work in the global visual art context.

Perth WA

0.3 km away

City of Perth Library — Image credit: city of perth

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

City of Perth Library

Connect, learn, and relax at the City of Perth Library, a vibrant community hub functioning as the city's modern learning and living room. Designed as a striking, circular seven-story structure, this state-of-the-art building represents the first major civic construction project completed in the Perth CBD since the Perth Concert Hall nearly 40 years prior. Far more than a home for books, the library features a dedicated History Centre, specialized Young Adult and Children's floors—complete with a whimsical "Tree of Knowledge" for Storytime—and an outdoor terrace overlooking Cathedral Square. Visitors are welcomed on the ground floor by views of Perth's largest living green wall. Looking upward, the ceiling showcases artist Andrew Nicholls' breathtaking fresco, Delight and Hurt Not, which beautifully reimagines the conclusion of Shakespeare's The Tempest from a uniquely Western Australian perspective. The facility provides free high-speed Wi-Fi, private meeting and audio-visual rooms, cozy reading areas, and free, library-exclusive digital resources. Located at 573 Hay Street, the library offers free entry and is open to the public daily with varying hours. It is fully wheelchair accessible and conveniently situated steps from CBD public transit, parking, and premium precinct dining.

Perth WA

0.3 km away

Swan River Foreshore

Natural Attractions

Swan River Foreshore

Get outdoors and enjoy the Swan River Foreshore where you can go walking, cycling, and picnicking while taking in fabulous views of the river and city. On the city side of the river, a dual cycleway-walk trail takes you on a riverside jaunt between the two bridges which link the Swan River’s south and north shores - the Narrows Bridge and the Causeway. The circuit is 10 kilometres and a popular trail for locals who love to exercise. Boat cruises of the river depart regularly from Barrack Square, which is also home to the Swan Bells. This glass and copper structure is open to the public and offers excellent river views from the observation deck. From South Perth, the river and the city backdrop make an impressive sight and a great photo. A regular ferry service operates between Barrack Square and Mends Street Jetty in South Perth. Catch the ferry from the city and then spend some time relaxing at one of the many restaurants and cafes in South Perth. Barbecues, playgrounds and public toilets make the foreshore an ideal place for a family picnic.

Perth WA

0.3 km away

Elizabeth Quay, Perth — Image credit: Tourism WA

Landmarks and Buildings

Elizabeth Quay (Goomup)

Celebrating Perth’s love affair with the Swan River, Elizabeth Quay (Goomup) is transforming the foreshore into a free playground for all ages to enjoy the city’s active lifestyle, abundant sunshine, amazing views, alfresco dining, outdoor markets and lively festival scene. There are so many ways to get to and from the quay. Catch a train to Elizabeth Quay station or a bus to Elizabeth Quay bus port. Ride Perth’s free CAT bus, or get a taxi to and from Barrack Street Jetty – right beside the iconic Bell Tower. Hop aboard the ferry running between the quay inlet and South Perth, join a river cruise from Barrack Street Jetty, or take your own boat, canoe or kayak and pitch up at the free public moorings in the quay. Cycle or walk the riverside trail and explore the one and half hectares of inlet, island, landscaped gardens and public art via the striking arched suspension bridge and promenade circuit. Be sure to check Perth’s calendar for special events at Elizabeth Quay inlet, and take in a show against the stunning backdrop of Perth’s cityscape and Swan River.

Perth WA

0.3 km away

Town Hall — Image credit: City of Perth

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Perth Town Hall

Step back in time at the historic Perth Town Hall, an architectural masterpiece standing proudly in the heart of the Perth CBD. Officially opened in 1870, this striking heritage landmark holds the unique title of being Australia's only capital city town hall constructed by convict labour, making it a site of immense national significance. Designed in an elegant Victorian Free Gothic style, the building features magnificent, pointed arches, a soaring clock tower, and whimsical wedding-cake turrets. Following an award-winning restoration, the grand Main Hall showcases a dramatic 15-metre cathedral ceiling, stained-glass windows, and polished jarrah floorboards. Meanwhile, the glass-encased Lower Foyer and Undercroft host rotating historical displays and local community exhibitions. Over its lifespan, the hall has served diverse roles—ranging from a 19th-century fire station to a colonial marketplace. Today, it operates as a vibrant cultural hub, welcoming visitors for public events, concerts, and free civic history tours. Conveniently located at the corner of Barrack and Hay Streets, this iconic attraction is completely free to enter and serves as an unmissable anchor stop for anyone exploring Western Australia's rich colonial history.

Perth WA

0.3 km away

His Majesty's Theatre, Australia's oldest Edwardian theatre — Image credit: Tourism WA

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

The Big Boom Tour

The Big Boom Tour is a historical walk through Perth city that highlights the 'boom' created by gold and the resultant surge of growth, wealth and prosperity in Western Australia. The city population swelled, buildings were erected, and it seemed Perth would 'bust' as this remote town turned into a buzzing cosmopolitan city. Discover interesting trinkets in the bustling London Court - a mock Elizabethan reproduction of an old London street, boutiques and cafes in King Street, one of the best preserved gold rush period streetscapes in Perth and gold bullion at the Perth Mint, which still operates today. The trail also takes in some of Perth's most interesting architecture, including the Victorian Free Gothic arches of the Perth Town Hall, the Edwardian finery of His Majesty's Theatre and the imposing Beaux Arts style of the General Post Office. The Big Boom Tour is one of several tours around the City of Perth. Volunteers guide free walking tours each weekday, departing from the i-City Information Kiosk in Murray Street Mall near Forrest Place. This easy tour is 2 kilometres long and will take two hours - you can join or leave anywhere along the way.

Perth WA

0.3 km away

BODHI Spa at The Westin Perth — Image credit: BODHI Spa

Spas and Retreats

BODHI Spa at The Westin Perth

Tranquillity awaits. BODHI Westin is a stand-out holistic wellness destination, set in the five-star surrounds of The Westin Perth. An eight-meter water feature provides a beautiful tranquillity that exudes throughout the whole spa. Six discerningly appointed treatment rooms, a luxury steam room, and a fifth floor relax terrace with views spanning the city, make this urban retreat beyond extraordinary. BODHI is Australia's premiere wellbeing group dedicated to all-natural, relaxed and refined spa, beauty and wellness. Their expert therapists deliver skin health and radiance, and a deep sense of wellbeing, with love and intention, in tranquil surrounds.

Perth WA

0.4 km away

Nine Streams in the Borna Malliji — Image credit: City of Perth

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Nine Streams in the Borna Malliji (Tree of Shadows)

The Nine Streams in the Borna Malliji (Tree of Shadow) takes the form of a projected shadow on the west wall of the Foundation Place and is located only metres from the actual site where the felling of a tree marked the European foundation of Perth on 12 August 1829. The artwork is in effect a digital extension of the real shadow of the newly planted Jacaranda tree and uses digital animation to transform the west wall into a theatre of shadows. History appears out of the shadows, revealing some of the significant future history of the State Buildings. Although the artwork is orientated toward subjects of the past, the living spirit of the city portrayed points to a bright future. The artwork carries a strong statement for reconciliation. Given the Cathedral Square precinct was a site of conflict between the Noongar people and the early Settlers and that the site has been continuously connected to Government activities, it seemed an appropriate place to acknowledge Indigenous and Non-Indigenous relations here. Accordingly, a close working relationship between the artist and Wadjuk local Barry McGuire was established very early on in the making of the work.

Perth WA

0.4 km away

Hay Street Mall — Image credit: Tourism WA

Shopping and Markets

Hay Street Mall

Stretching between William Street and Barrack Street in the heart of Perth CBD, Hay Street Mall is one of the city's premier shopping and entertainment precincts. This vibrant pedestrian mall offers an exciting mix of international brands, Australian retailers, specialty boutiques, cafés and dining options, making it a favourite destination for both visitors and locals. Beyond its retail appeal, Hay Street Mall is rich in history. Established as Australia's first pedestrian shopping mall in 1972, it is home to a collection of beautifully preserved heritage buildings, charming arcades and historic laneways that reflect Perth's unique character and architectural heritage. Conveniently located within walking distance of major attractions including Forrest Place, London Court, the Perth Town Hall, Elizabeth Quay and Murray Street Mall, Hay Street Mall is the perfect place to shop, dine, people-watch or simply soak up the atmosphere of Perth's city centre. Whether you're searching for the latest fashion, a unique gift or a relaxing coffee break, Hay Street Mall offers something for everyone.

Perth WA

0.4 km away

Enex — Image credit: Enex Perth Facebook

Shopping and Markets

Enex

Enex provides a convenient connection between the Hay Street Mall and St Georges Terrace. With 24 hour security, a first class food podium, parents room and amenities, Woolworths Supermarket, Friendlies Pharmacy and 46 fashion, food and lifestyle boutiques – Enex is your one stop style destination. You can window shop, get that quick caffeine kick or pick up some last minute groceries from Woolworths all on your way to work.

Perth WA

0.4 km away

international headliners every week at Comedy Lounge hosts a different lineup every week. — Image credit: Comedy Lounge

Entertainment Venues

Comedy Lounge

Comedy Lounge is one of Australia's leading live comedy venues, located in the heart of Perth, WA. They host stand-up shows every week, with a lineup that mixes Perth's best local comedians with touring acts from across Australia and overseas. The venue has a fully licensed bar and kitchen, so you can grab a meal and a drink before the show or enjoy table service during the performance. With great sightlines, quality sound, and an energetic crowd, every night is built to deliver real laughs. Whether you're looking for things to do in Perth on a Friday or Saturday night, planning a group outing, or showing visitors around the city, Comedy Lounge is one of Perth's top entertainment options. They run shows most weekends, plus special events, comedy festivals, and visiting headline tours throughout the year. For tickets and info, visit the website.

Perth WA

0.5 km away

The DFES Education and Heritage Centre — Image credit: DFES

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Old Central Fire Station and Heritage Centre

Discover over 125 years of fire brigade history at the heritage-listed Old Central Fire Station. Perth’s first purpose-built fire station is now a Heritage Centre and offers fascinating displays of historic firefighting equipment, vintage fire trucks, and captivating tales of firefighter antics! Children and the young at heart can gear up as firefighters, pose on the iconic fire pole, and take the wheel of an authentic fire truck. Located in Perth’s historic East End, the Old Central Fire Station is the perfect venue for history enthusiasts and families looking for a fun trip into the city. Old Central Fire Station is managed by the WA Department of Fire and Emergency Services.

Perth WA

0.5 km away

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