It’s finally spring! The weather is warmer, wildflowers are blooming, and overall, we’re happy to be stepping out a bit more, hay fever notwithstanding. What better way to make the most of the seasonal change than exploring places near the city? Consider Guildford, a historic suburb less than 30 minutes from Perth CBD that has been around since 1829. Decked in 19th-century, English-style architecture, this quaint town makes for the perfect weekend outing.
Things to do in Guildford this Spring
Conveniently surrounded by the Swan and Helena Rivers, Guildford is known for its historic buildings. In fact, it is the only WA town on the State Register of Heritage Places, and one of just three in Perth listed on the National Trust register.
Begin your activities around town by dropping by the Swan Valley Visitor Centre. This one-stop shop for planning heritage walks, reading historical fun facts, and booking tickets to tourist spots (including Colonial Gaol, a former prison) is housed in an 1866 building, formerly a courthouse.
Armed with the route map (available online), embark on any of the four self-guided walks around Guildford. If you’re up for a fair walk, try the Captain Stirling Walk (gold markers, about 2.25 kilometres, 60–75 minutes). It takes you around Guildford Grammar School and the Chapel of St. Mary and St. George (visible from outside).
Next, check out the Stirling Square Circuit. Surrounding its charming namesake, the trail winds around the Kaleep Aboriginal Hearth Artwork and the Guildford 10th Light Horse statue. Interpretive panels tell the story of rich Noongar heritage, natural beauty, and lived ANZAC history felt to date. If the little history enthusiasts in your group grow weary, you can also make a pit stop at the playground or duck pond at Stirling Square.
While there are lots of eateries in and around these walking trails, the Rose and Crown Hotel deserves its spot on any Guildford itinerary. Western Australia’s oldest operating hotel (since 1841), it serves hearty meals as well as great wine, perfect for a clear spring day.
Market days are particularly beautiful. You can stroll around the Stirling Square Market or Guildford Twilight Market, which start setting up on weekends this spring. However, even if you’ve popped in without checking the market schedule, this historic town has no dearth of antique shops to explore.
Antique stores along James Street
For those looking for household wares to spruce up their homes, Jones of Guildford is a veritable paradise. It’s huge for an antique shop, and you can spend hours browsing knickknacks, furniture, vinyl, toys, and more.
Basic Elements is the most non-basic of them all, specialising in personally sourced and restored furniture, ceramics and terracotta from all over Asia. They also have some local goods, so be sure to drop in for a truly transportive experience.
Other antique havens include The Corner Store for sustainable collectors’ goods and Shab 2 Fab for awe-inspiring vintage items. All these stores are located along the main James Street, where you can spend hours scanning items to collect, gift, or repurpose.
Getting there
About 20 to 25 minutes away from Perth, driving to Guildford is easiest. Move toward William Street, turn left onto Lord Street, and then take State Route 51 straight to the suburb. You could also take the train. Make your way to Midland Station and ride 11 stops on the Midland Line to Guildford Station.
For more information on train routes, check out Transperth.
