Strolling the streets of Guildford - the gateway to the Swan Valley - you get the feeling you’re in a charming little village that time forgot. It’s a place where history lives on in quaint colonial buildings, where the influence of the English gentry is still played out on the polo field and where Devonshire tea is served with a shameless disregard for cholesterol levels. So put on some stout walking shoes and explore the beguiling colonial charm of Guildford.

Restaurants and Cafes
From cafe to haute cuisine Guildford offers a smorgasbord of dining experiences. Try the famous home-made hamburgers at legendary eatery Alfred's Kitchen established in 1946. They must be eaten on site by the warmth of the open wood fire to truly savour the experience. Or dine in style in a splendid historic pub or one of many cafes established in beautifully refurbished historic buildings.

History and Culture
Guildford was established in 1829 as a market town and inland river port for flat bottomed boats that served the expanding agricultural regions. Today it’s the only town in Perth classified by the National Trust and is easily explored by foot or bicycle in half a day. The original 1829 commercial and civic precinct contains many fine colonial buildings including the Rose and Crown Hotel (1841), Padbury Stores (1869), Moulton’s Cottage (1842) and St Matthew’s Church (1873).

Pop into the Swan Valley Visitor Centre for a guide on heritage walks in Guildford. Or for a peek into the life of a well-to-do 19th century family, for a small donation join a guided tour of Woodbridge House - a treasure house of memorabilia. Open Thursday to Tuesday 1pm-4pm (closed Wednesdays).

Shopping
For antique lovers, Guildford’s long-established James Street antique strip is a browser’s paradise.  See local potters creating functional and decorative pottery in an historic old cottage, discover a treasure trove of small art shops, galleries or view classic art works in a grand heritage-listed home.  

Stay
Accommodation in Guildford is charming. Whether you choose to stay at a gracious turn-of-the-century home or in the local pub, you can experience a night in a faithfully restored luxury room with character and history.

For more information contact the Swan Valley Visitor Centre
or Tel: (08) 9379 9400.