Located at the corner of Hay and Barrack Streets, Perth Town Hall is an impressive landmark in the heart of the city and Australia’s only Gothic-style town hall. Complete with a red-brick façade, stained glass windows, and a dramatic 15-metre cathedral ceiling, it was designed by Richard Roach Jewell and James Manning. It is the only town hall in the world built by convicts. Although it has served many functions in the last 150 years, nowadays, the space stands as a testament to both history and craftsmanship and is mainly used for exhibitions, cocktail parties and even mesmerising Candlelight concerts.
Background on Perth Town Hall
Completed in 1870, largely by convict labor, Perth Town Hall remains an enduring symbol of the Swan River Colony’s early development. Prominent designer Richard Roach Jewell chose a Victorian-Gothic design using a Flemish style of brick work with wooden shingles and French influences, whereas the roofing structure was drawn up by English architect and builder James Manning.
The structure featured originally an open undercroft used as a market, stained glass windows, a cantilevered Juliet balcony as well as beautiful artwork. Designed to resemble medieval European town halls, the building’s ample spaces, the imposing 15-metre cathedral ceiling and interior adornments immediately catch the eye upon arrival.
What can you do at Perth Town Hall?
The versatile venue 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 exhibitions to galas and corporate events, its spacious halls have been home to probably every kind of event.
Besides private events, Perth Town Hall regularly hosts Candlelight concerts. From pop and rock to jazz and even movie soundtracks, they cover just about every ground when it comes to music genres and themes. Guests can embark on an unforgettable musical journey surrounded by amazing architecture and a sea of twinkling candles. And if life has stressed you out recently, look no further than this deeply relaxing sound bath with Mindful Glow.
FAQs
Is Perth Town Hall air-conditioned?
Yes, the venue is equipped with modern climate control systems to ensure comfort during events all year long.
What time is the Tuesday concert at Perth Town Hall?
The Tuesday Morning Show is a free weekly community event designed for seniors led by Bernard Carney. It offers musical entertainment, speakers and more, and it begins at 11:00 AM every week.
How to get to Perth Town Hall?
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, 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. 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.
Nearby venues
Given its convenient location in the very heart of the Central Business District, Perth Town Hall has a number of landmarks and venues within reach. Barracks Arch, Yagan Square and Elizabeth Quay are within a 10-minute distance.
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, you can also catch a sensational Candlelight concert within 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.