Story: Timeless Guildford
Episode: 27
Presenter: Nikki Parkinson
Air Date: 3 August 2025

Nikki explores the heritage trails of Guildford, uncovering colonial landmarks, Indigenous stories, and local legends, all just 20 minutes from Perth in one of WA’s most historic towns.

• Guildford offers four self-guided Heritage Walk Trails, taking visitors through its most significant sites, from historic churches and colonial gaols to Indigenous meeting places and riverside landings.
• The trails range from 500 metres to 2 kilometres, making them suitable for short visits or longer, immersive days out.
• Start your journey at the Swan Valley Visitor Centre (in the 1866 courthouse), recently awarded Best Visitor Centre in Australia. Maps and brochures are available in print and online.
• Stirling Square Circuit features:
• Majestic sugar gum trees
• St Matthew’s Church – Gothic Revival architecture
• Guildford Gaol (c.1841) and Courthouse (c.1866)
• 10th Light Horse Regiment Statue
• Kaleep Aboriginal Hearth – a new installation honouring Noongar heritage
• The River Ramble includes:
• The Rose and Crown Hotel (c.1841) – Australia’s oldest continually operating pub
• Historic Padbury’s Store (c.1869) – now a café and giftware boutique
• Moulton’s Landing – a riverside site with colonial stories and Noongar significance
• The Town Walk highlights:
• The James Street retail precinct, including antique shops, homewares and local fashion
• The Stirling Arms Hotel (c.1852) – recently rejuvenated by new owners Jesse and Dave
• Nearby Alfred’s Kitchen, an iconic WA roadside eatery
• Guildford Hotel and Garrick Theatre, adding character to this historic strip
• Captain Stirling Walk passes:
• Guildford Grammar School Chapel – a fine Gothic-style building
• Grand plane trees and civic heritage buildings

For more information, head to:
swanvalley.com.au