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The iconic Winthrop Hall at University of Western Australia — Image credit: The University of Western Australia

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

The University of Western Australia

The University of Western Australia (UWA) is located on the picturesque banks of the Swan River (Derbarl Yerrigan), just minutes from the Perth Central Business District, and is renowned for its beautifully landscaped gardens and iconic sandstone buildings. UWA has more than 100 years of excellence in teaching, learning and research and has produced high-achieving graduates including a prime minister, a Nobel prize winner, an Oscar-winning film-maker, ground-breaking scientists and doctors, award-winning journalists, celebrated musicians, writers, journalists, archaeologists – experts across many fields of work. Many of UWA's buildings are constructed from sandstone, including the iconic Winthrop Hall with its Romanesque architecture. The New Fortune Theatre is a replica of the original Elizabethan Fortune Theatre and is used to host many special events and performances. Also worth visiting are the Somerville Auditorium, Octagon Theatre, New Dolphin Theatre, Sunken Garden and the Tropical Grove, as well as the Lawrence Wilson Art Gallery, Edward de Courcy Clarke Earth Science Museum and the Berndt Museum of Anthropology. Enjoy lunch on the lawns, under a canopy of shady trees, or in one of the many quality cafes and eateries on campus. Located just 10 minutes drive from Perth, it is best reached by public transport or bicycle.

Perth WA

0.0 km away

Perth City skyline from matilda Bay — Image credit: Tourism Western Australia

National Parks and Reserves

Matilda Bay Reserve

On a warm summer’s day, people flock to Matilda Bay Reserve to go swimming in the Swan River and picnic by the water. Located south of Perth and not far from the University of Western Australia, Matilda Bay is a perfect spot to relax in a tranquil setting under shady trees. Children can paddle by the water's edge or leap into the water from one of the nearby jetties. Fishing is also popular. The reserve encompasses Pelican Point which is an important breeding sanctuary for migratory birds. With the stunning backdrop of the Swan River and views over the city of Perth, Matilda Bay is also popular for social functions and weddings. Matilda Bay Reserve is situated between Hackett Drive and the Swan River in Crawley. It’s about a five-minute drive from the city.

Nedlands WA

0.5 km away

The Crawley Edge Boatshed

Landmarks and Buildings

Crawley Edge Boatshed

The iconic Crawley Edge Boatshed, also known as the Blue Boat House, is located on the banks of the Swan River at Matilda Bay in Crawley. One of Perth's most popular Instagram and wedding photo locations, it attracts visitors and locals alike who share their pictures using the hashtag #blueboathouse. The Boatshed is known for being the most photographed attraction in Perth ahead of Elizabeth Quay, Cathedral Square and the Bell Tower. A well known landmark, it was built in the 1930s and since the 1940s has been owned by the Nattrass family who paid five pounds for the original structure and has been rebuilt several times since. In 2001, the Boatshed was painted the vibrant blue that it's currently famous for and has confirmed its landmark status on the Swan River. Various city tour operators include the Blue Boatshed in their itineraries. Transperth buses travel west along Mounts Bay Road from the Esplanade Busport in Perth central business district. These buses can also be boarded on Stirling Highway if approaching from the western suburbs. Visitors to the area are encouraged to visit the nearby Eliza statue (named after Mount Eliza in Kings Park), a bronze statue also located in Matilda Bay. A public solar powered toilet is now available at nearby Quarry Point.

Crawley WA

0.7 km away

Swan River Sailing

Natural Attractions

Swan River Sailing

Swan River Sailing delivers unforgettable sailing experiences on the iconic Swan River in Perth, Western Australia - no prior sailing experience required! Guests board modern 36-foot yachts at the historic Royal Perth Yacht Club, just a 10-minute drive from Perth's CBD. The venue sits near landmark attractions like Kings Park and the Blue Boat House (famously dubbed "The Centre of the Universe"), blending convenience with stunning river and city skyline views. The adventure begins on the picturesque lawn overlooking the Swan River, where participants meet experienced instructors. Each yacht, designed for safety and enjoyment, carries up to 10 guests plus a qualified skipper. Charters run 1.5 to 2.5 hours, fully customised to group preferences and schedules. All yachts meet Australian Maritime Safety Authority standards as a Gold Standard commercial operator, guaranteeing a secure and fun outing for everyone. Yacht hire includes all safety and sailing equipment, an experienced instructor, and a complimentary icebox stocked with chilled water, soft drinks, mineral water, locally crafted mid- and full-strength beers, and premium WA white wine (opt-out available). Guests can extend the experience with hospitality ashore at the Royal Perth Yacht Club before or after sailing. Perfect for corporate events, team building, celebrations, or leisure outings, Swan River Sailing offers a seamless, memorable way to enjoy one of Perth's most scenic waterways.

Crawley WA

1.1 km away

Swan River Perth — Image credit: Tourism WA

Natural Attractions

Swan River

Take in one of the most photogenic cityscapes from the Swan River and its foreshore, joining Perth locals for a walk, cycle, jog, picnic, spot of sailing and fishing or a gentle river cruise. The city stands proudly on its banks, with Perth's brilliant blue skies and many vantage points offering perfect photo opportunities. Head to Kings Park and Botanic Garden for a 180-degree panorama of the river, cityscape and Darling Range beyond. Hop on the ferry to South Perth for a lazy lunch, or relax on the sweeping beach of Matilda Bay. Follow the river to Fremantle, and gaze in awe at some of Perth's most opulent riverside residences. Or cruise to the upper reaches to sample the fruits and heritage of Western Australia's oldest wine region - the Swan Valley. Those in search of water-based thrills - hire a surf cat, try twilight sailing, jump on a jet ski, throw in a fishing line. In winter, the Swan River is also the setting for the Avon Descent - a gruelling two-day time trial that tests novices and Olympic champions from far and wide. Pitch yourself on the river banks and take in this amazing spectacle.

Perth WA

1.9 km away

Kings Park and Botanic Garden — Image credit: Tourism WA

Landmarks and Buildings

DNA Tower Climb

The DNA Tower derives its name from the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) double-helix molecule, which is found in all cells and control the development of life. It is the highest viewing point in Kings Park with spectacular views throughout the climb. On a clear day you may even be able to see the Indian Ocean. Dr John Beard (Director of Kings Park and Botanic Garden 1961-1970) commissioned the construction in 1966 by D&H Fraser Consulting Engineers. The 15 metre high staircase has 101 steps and was inspired by the famous double staircase in a Chateau in Blois, France. The paving and wall surrounding the DNA Tower was constructed using stones from 11 towns and 80 shires within Western Australia. The original design included a shallow reflecting pond at the base of the tower. It was replaced with Karratha stone paving in 2001 to enhance visitor safety. The DNA Tower is located at the Forrest Drive end of the Broadwalk Vista. It is an easy 1.5-kilometre walk from May Drive Parkland and the Western Australian Botanic Garden.

Kings Park WA

2.1 km away

Aboriginal Cultural Tours of Kings Park, Nyungar Tours — Image credit: Tourism Western Australia

Parks and Gardens

Kings Park Botanical Walks

Within the 17 hectare Kings Park Botanic Garden you can explore the extraordinary biodiversity of every region of Western Australia. Follow one of two walk trails and you'll encounter more than 3,000 flowering plant species, from the 750-year-old boab tree to delicate everlastings. The park lies 1.5 kilometres from Perth central business district, overlooking the Swan River and iconic cityscape. A seven-minute bus ride, ten-minute drive, or 25-minute walk will get you to the start of the trail, at the end of Fraser Avenue. Make the Visitor Information Centre your first stop to pick up a park map. The most popular walk through the Botanic Garden is the Lotterywest Federation Walkway, taking you up into the treetops for one of the best panoramas of the river and city. Allow 40 minutes return. If you have more time to explore, follow the Lotterywest Federation Walkway to the tranquil Water Garden and Pioneer Women's Memorial Fountain. Allow at least an hour to complete the loop trail. Keen to learn more about the State's unique flora? Then join a free guided walk. The route they take will vary, depending on what's flowering at the time of your visit.

Kings Park WA

2.1 km away

X-Golf Nedlands Venue

Entertainment Venues

X-Golf Nedlands

Welcome to X-Golf Nedlands, your local indoor golf and sports bar in Perth's western suburbs! Join them for casual rounds, tournaments, coaching sessions, or private hire. They've paired a relaxed atmosphere with a full bar and a curated menu, making it the perfect spot to catch the game or relax with friends. Their premium simulators provide accurate ball data and access to world-renowned international courses. From casual group bundles to tailored event packages, they offer flexible options for different occasions.

Nedlands WA

2.4 km away

Harvesting a Pearl

Shopping and Markets

Willie Creek Pearls - Elizabeth Quay

Willie Creek Pearls Elizabeth Quay showroom is located in the heart of Perth City, on the banks of the Swan River. Experience and discover the Australian South Sea Pearl, from shell to showroom, and learn why the best pearls in the world are grown in Broome. Join one of their Signature Pearl Experiences to learn about the techniques used to produce the only gem created by a living organism at Willie Creek Pearl Farm in Broome. Watch as a pearl is harvested live from an oyster, learn how pearls are graded, taste pearl meat and immerse yourself in an iconic and uniquely Western Australian experience that's not to be missed. Willie Creek Pearls Elizabeth Quay is easily accessible by road, train or ferry and is five minutes walking distance from the Central Business District. Along with their tour options, the showroom can be hired out for private events or exclusive shopping tours. Visit Willie Creek Pearls today and take home a piece of Western Australia.

Perth WA

2.6 km away

Kings Park and Botanic Garden — Image credit: Tourism WA

Natural Attractions

Lotterywest Federation Walkway - Kings Park

Enjoy Perth’s famous treetop walk, taking in the spectacular views along the Lotterywest Federation Walkway. Extending 620 metres through Kings Park, the numerous lookouts provide breathtaking views of Perth City, the Mt Eliza escarpment and surrounding rivers. A 222-metre-long elevated section with a 16-metre above-ground suspension bridge offers a bird’s eye view of a canopy of tall eucalypts. The walk takes around 40 minutes to complete and begins adjacent to the Lord Forrest statue. You will pass by several beautiful wildflower gardens, across the Tuart Lawn, alongside the tranquil Water Garden valley before entering the cathedral of the Marri woodland forest. With the interpretive signage provided, you will be able to gain a greater insight into the flora, fauna, Aboriginal culture and fascinating history of the area. Nyoongar Aboriginal art, the inspiring landscaping and artistic drawings on the steel bridge pylons create a visually enthralling experience. Kings Park is an easy walk or cycle from the city; it is also well-serviced by buses.

West Perth WA

2.6 km away

Rio Tinto Naturescape Kings Park — Image credit: Rio Tinto Naturescape Kings Park

Parks and Gardens

Rio Tinto Naturescape Kings Park

Rio Tinto Naturescape Kings Park is a place for children to connect with nature and learn to appreciate the unique Western Australian environment. Join them to brave the heights of The Bungarra and The Python, wade in the Paperbark Waterhole, get caught in a web in The Tangle, disappear down The Burrow and build your best-ever cubby. Rio Tinto Naturescape Kings Park is the perfect place for kids to connect with nature and have fun outdoors. Don't forget to check out their program of self-guided free nature-based activities. Parental supervision is required at all times. They highly recommend you plan your visit carefully before arrival. Please visit their website for more information.

Kings Park WA

2.8 km away

Old Mill and cottage

Galleries, Museums and Collections

The Old Mill

Located on the traditional land of Buryalup overlooking the Narrows bridge and South Perth foreshore, the Old Mill is a cherished icon of WA history and a must-see visit for everyone. Built in 1835 and operating until 1859, the mill produced 680kg of flour per day at its peak. Since ceasing production, the site has been used as a hotel, a residence, a wine saloon and a poultry farm. In 1992, the site was granted to the City of South Perth to commemorate the centenary of the founding of Local Government in South Perth (1892). The Old Mill is the oldest surviving colonial structure in the Perth area and a key local and state cultural heritage icon. The site was used by First Nations peoples for generations as a traditional camping spot, fish trap area and birthing place. Visitors are invited to explore the rich history of the land as a traditional fishing ground of the Ballaruk people.

South Perth WA

2.8 km away

Kings Park

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Kings Park and Botanic Garden

One of the largest inner-city parks in the world, Kings Park and Botanic Garden covers 400 hectares of Perth's heart with serene natural bushland and sculpted gardens. It's perched high on the crest of Mount Eliza, making it a top spot to take in sweeping panoramas of Perth's city skyline and Swan River. Pack a picnic or barbecue and take the 15 minute walk to Kings Park from Perth's centre, or hop on a free CAT bus. Pick up maps and brochures from the Visitor Information Centre, take a free guided walk or enjoy a self guided tour. Join the locals for a coffee at one of the cafes, or lunch and dinner in the fine dining restaurant. Relax while the kids enjoy the playgrounds. Take a walk through the treetops along the Lotterywest Federation Walkway, stopping to learn about local fauna, Indigenous culture and European history. The first park to be designated for public use in Australia (in 1872), Kings Park is also home to the State War Memorial and State Botanic Garden. It showcases 1,700 unique native species and a dazzling display of wildflowers in spring, celebrated with the annual Kings Park Festival in September.

West Perth WA

3.0 km away

Selection of Australian yarn

Shopping and Markets

Crossways Wool and Fabrics Australian Yarn Store

Crossways Wool and Fabrics is a long-established specialist yarn and craft store in the heart of Subiaco. Established in 1973, it is one of Australia's longest-running yarn and fabric stores and has been part of the local community for more than 50 years. Today, it remains a much-loved destination for knitters, crocheters and makers. Visitors can explore a carefully selected range of Australian yarn, wool, knitting and crochet supplies, fabrics, patterns, gifts and accessories, with friendly advice from a knowledgeable team. Crossways also hosts small group knitting and crochet classes for beginners and experienced makers, adding a hands on creative experience to a visit. Located on Rokeby Road in Subiaco, the store offers a warm and welcoming stop for anyone interested in yarn, craft and making by hand. Today, Crossways remains a much-loved destination for knitters, crocheters and makers, with visitors from across Australia and overseas often stopping in to explore its extensive range of Australian yarns, locally made products and hard-to-find craft supplies.

Subiaco WA

3.0 km away

Claremont Museum — Image credit: Town of Claremont

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Claremont Museum

The historic Freshwater Bay School is home to the Claremont Museum. Originally constructed in 1862 the building functioned as the first school between Perth and Fremantle. Throughout its history, the building has also been a place of religious worship, a boarding house for young men, a police station and police quarters. The Town of Claremont opened the building as Claremont Museum in 1975 after it had been relinquished by the Police Department, making it the first metropolitan council-owned museum. The Museum collects, preserves, interprets and exhibits the cultural heritage of Claremont and Freshwater Bay area and is committed to presenting accurate and well-researched information about the past. The museum also hosts a range of exhibitions and events throughout the year. To stay up to date with the happenings at the museum, please check the website. The Museum is located close to the Swan River. It can be reached by a ten-minute walk from Stirling Highway down Bay View Terrace to Victoria Avenue, where you can turn left and stroll to the Museum. You can catch the Fremantle line train to Claremont Station then walk about 20 minutes (1.6 kilometres) or by bus.

Claremont WA

3.4 km away

Friends of Lake Claremont Mural by Brenton See — Image credit: Town of Claremont

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Claremont Public Art Trail

Claremont has a range of permanent and temporary works of art including sculptures, murals, and mosaics, which reflect and inform the community and visitors about the diverse history of the Town, its residents, and their activities. The public artwork located around the Town is either commissioned with assistance from the Town or private developers and located on Town-owned land or private property. The public art trial is a great way to experience the Town of Claremont and all it has to offer. Along the way, you will see the tree-lined streets and heritage buildings, the breathtaking foreshore of Freshwater Bay, the unique and cosy Swanbourne Village, the bustling Town Centre, the breathtaking urban bushland and wetland of Lake Claremont, as well as a range of parks and reserves. Offering an eclectic mix of styles and mediums from vibrant murals to large-scale sculptures the trail has something to offer everyone. From the renowned artist and illustrator Kyle Hughes Odger's bright abstract designs to imposing and whimsical structures such as Alister Yiap’s five metre tall Infinity Tree, why not indulge in some culture and check out the trail for yourself.

Claremont WA

3.5 km away

Claremont Town Centre — Image credit: Town of Claremont

Entertainment Venues

Claremont Town Centre

The Claremont Town Centre offers a luxury, boutique shopping experience. It is the must-visit destination for anyone looking to treat themselves. Bordered by Stirling Highway, Stirling Road, Gugeri Street and Leura Avenue, you'll be spoilt for choice exploring the leafy streets and laneways, including the classy Claremont Quarter shopping centre. Whether you are seeking high-end clothing, beauty products and services, health therapies, fitness classes, gifts for yourself or a loved one, some new fashion accessories, homewares, coffee, or a delicious meal, the Claremont Town Centre has it all. Explore the range of businesses the Town Centre has to offer in the online Claremont Town Centre Guide. The Town Centre is easily accessible by car with free timed street parking and parking at Claremont Quarter, as well as by bus or via the Claremont train station.

Claremont WA

3.5 km away

Claremont Aquatic Centre — Image credit: Town of Claremont

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Claremont Aquatic Centre

Claremont Aquatic Centre is a naturally heated outdoor swimming facility. This includes an 8-lane 50-metre pool with a dive pool attached, a 7-lane 2-metre pool, and an interactive splash pad. There is a range of activities run at the centre which includes casual lap swimming, squad swimming, learn-to swim programmes, aqua aerobics, water polo and more.

Claremont WA

3.6 km away

Claremont Quarter — Image credit: Photo from Claremont Quarter Facebook page

Shopping and Markets

Claremont Quarter

Claremont Quarter is a small multi-story shopping centre located 9.5 kilometres from the Perth central business district. They offer a selection of premium fashion, food, home and lifestyle experiences unlike anything else in Perth. Leading fashion designers and stores sit alongside gourmet food options and a supermarket. Complimentary three hours parking, a fee applies after this time.

Claremont WA

3.8 km away

Barracks Arch

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Barracks Arch

Learn more about Western Australia’s colonial history on a visit to Barracks Arch in the west end of Perth. Barracks Arch was once part of a large military barracks designed by Richard Jewell and built by convict labour in the 1860s. It housed the Enrolled Pensioner Guards and their families. The military barracks were eventually demolished but the archway was saved and now sits nearby Parliament House. Barracks Arch makes for an imposing landmark on a drive along St George’s Terrace in Perth. It’s an easy walk from the city centre, or you can catch a free Central Area Transit (CAT) bus.

Perth WA

3.9 km away

Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre

Entertainment Venues

Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre

From international musicians and comedians to international car shows and life-size animatronic dinosaurs, you can find it at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre (PCEC), home to Perth’s most contemporary theatre venue, the Riverside Theatre. Nestled on the banks of the Swan River in the heart of the city, Western Australia’s preeminent convention and exhibition centre is conveniently located opposite Elizabeth Quay bus station, only five minute’s walk from Elizabeth Quay train station. With six purpose-built exhibition pavilions, a theatre and 25 individual event spaces - some offering sweeping river views - the convention centre is an architectural and cultural landmark, hosting a diverse range of functions, events and performances all year round. Check out the PCEC’s calendar of events, book your tickets and, perhaps, an overnight stay too. You’ll find a range of accommodation options within easy reach, along with some of Perth’s best restaurants, shopping hotspots, galleries and attractions. Walk to the Perth Cultural Centre, hop on a ferry to Perth Zoo, or take the free CAT bus to the botanic gardens in Kings Park.

Perth WA

3.9 km away

Lake Claremont — Image credit: Town of Claremont

Natural Attractions

Lake Claremont

Lake Claremont is a Conservation Category Wetland with considerable conservation value and is a prominent landscape feature. The Friends of Lake Claremont group was established in 2003 to assist in the conservation and enhancement of the lake. The area is abundant with bird life, specifically between August and January with over 100 species of birds recorded. There is also a 2.5 kilometre loop trail surrounding the lake and dog exercise areas. The lake can be accessed from many points via the local road network. There is a dual-use path surround the eat and northern shoes and pedestrian pathways.

Claremont WA

4.0 km away

Perth City Skyline taken from the South Perth Foreshore at dawn — Image credit: Tourism WA

Natural Attractions

South Perth Foreshore

South Perth Foreshore incorporates Sir James Mitchell Park, South Perth Esplanade Reserve, Mill Point Reserve and Clydesdale Reserve. The South Perth Foreshore is an iconic tourist destination with views of Perth city across the Swan River. For those looking for something active, there’s plenty of open space to kick a football, play cricket, fly a kite, walk your dog or work up a sweat on the walking or cycle paths. Access to the river is available at Coode Street beaches and boat ramp, Mends Street beach and Mill Point near the Narrows Bridge. The Scented Gardens at the western end of Sir James Mitchell Park near Mends Street offer a quiet escape to sit and relax, as do the lakes area near Douglas and Hurlingham Avenues. There are picnic tables, barbecues, toilets, cafes, outdoor exercise equipment and four children’s playgrounds on the foreshore. Offering the best panoramic Swan River and Perth city views, it’s no wonder South Perth Foreshore and Sir James Mitchell Park are such popular spots for outdoor activities as well as picnics with family and friends.

South Perth WA

4.1 km away

Feather Arbour Ned Kahn Brookfield Place, Perth — Image credit: Robert Frith, Acorn Photo, 2015

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Feather Arbour by Ned Khan

A dynamic, shifting artwork by internationally-renowned American artist Ned Kahn, this public artwork is located outside of Brookfield Place, in the heart of Perth's bustling Central Business District. The artwork was briefed, developed and managed by Public Arts organisation FORM. This installation called for a piece which responded to the themes of light, discovery and memory – as well as taking into account the environmental conditions of the site. Kahn’s response to this was to create Feather Arbour, a work evocative of feathers and fish fins, subtly referencing the nearby Swan River ecosystem. Like most of Kahn’s installations, the work is a combination of science, art and technology, replicating the forms and forces of nature, reflecting the unseen movement of wind. Ned Kahn is famous for his museum exhibits built for the Exploratorium in San Francisco. He has won a United States National Design Award for environmental design and collaborated with Koning Eizenberg Architecture Incorporated on a piece for the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh. The work is a series of nine, six-metre tall ‘feathers’, constructed from stainless steel and sprung steel.

Perth WA

4.1 km away

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