Completed in 1870 on the highest point of the city, Perth Town Hall is a restored Victorian-Gothic style structure that was designed by Richard Roach Jewell and James Manning. Its red-brick façade is hard to miss if you’re walking on Hay Street. Although it has served many functions in the last 150 years, nowadays, the space is mainly used for exhibitions, cocktail parties and even mesmerising Candlelight concerts.
The historic Perth Town Hall is really easy to reach. If you’re a believer of public transport, many buses pass nearby, including the 178, 930, 935, 950 and 960 buses. Additionally, should you choose to take the train, you can also get there with the Armadale, Joondalup, Midland and Fremantle lines. Given its convenient location in the very heart of the Central Business District, Perth Town Hall has a range of restaurants within reach for you to grab a quick bite after your visit. In addition, if you go by car, you don’t have to scout the area for parking. There are two parking garages only a few minutes away, namely Wilson Parking on Hay Street and City of Perth Parking on St Georges Terrace.
Facts, Curiosities and Interesting Things about Perth Town Hall
1. The only town hall in the world built by convicts
Perth was the capital of the Swan River Colony, which saw a rapid growth from 1829 onwards. However, it still lacked the necessary infrastructure to accommodate all the new settlers. So the solution at the time was getting convicts to do the work. It is estimated that over 10,000 British, male convicts arrived in the colony between 1850 and 1868 to build public institutions, roads, and other public infrastructure, including Perth Town Hall. In fact, the number was so big that by the end of 1868, the settlers were outnumbered by the convicts.
2. A prime example of Victorian-Gothic architecture
Prominent designer Richard Roach Jewell chose a Victorian-Gothic design for the building using a Flemish style of brick work with wooden shingles and French influences, which was fashionable in the 19th century. Whereas, the roofing structure was designed by English architect and builder James Manning.
3. The structure’s main features
Some of the building’s most notable features include, the undercroft, used as a covered outdoor market, stained glass windows, a cantilevered Juliet balcony as well as beautiful artwork. Designed to resemble medieval European town halls, the structure’s ample spaces, the imposing 15-metre cathedral ceiling and interior adornments immediately catch the eye upon arrival.
Candlelight concerts at Perth Town Hall
The historic Perth Town Hall is also hosting a number of classical tribute concerts by candlelight this season. From pop and rock to jazz and even movie soundtracks, they cover just about every ground when it comes to music genres and themes. Embark on an unforgettable musical journey as you’re surrounded by amazing architecture and a sea of twinkling candles.
What else can you do at Perth Town Hall?
Perth Town Hall is open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm, and nowadays it is “a Hall for Hire”. If you want to organise your next big event in a heritage venue, you’ll be in good hands because the town hall has seen it all. From elegant weddings and mind-bending exhibitions to galas and corporate events, its spacious halls have been home to probably every kind of event.
What’s more, you can discover this sensational space in Perth firsthand by booking a tour available on the first Thursday of every month. And if life has stressed you out recently, look no further than this deeply relaxing sound bath with Mindful Glow.
There’s few venues in Perth that boast both incredible history and gorgeous architecture. And having been used as a public institution and event venue, Perth Town Hall really has done it all. If you think you’ve seen everything there is to see at this stunning venue, this season, you can also catch a sensational Candlelight concert at its Victorian-Gothic halls. And if you’re curious to learn more about these intimate shows, there are other striking venues in the city welcoming these classical performances.