Supreme Court Gardens
Like all Perth’s urban parks, this peaceful oasis is where you can escape the summer heat under a palm tree. It’s also a great place to take in some history too.
There are many good reasons to come to the Supreme Court Gardens. The first is seeing some of the oldest buildings in Perth, the second is attending a community event and a third reason is finding a shady spot to relax in Perth’s central business district (CBD). Young couples will give you a fourth reason as well, because the park is romantic spot for timeless engagement and wedding photos.
The Supreme Court Gardens stand out because of their century-old charm. The oldest plants and trees in the garden date back to 1920, when the area was first transformed into a botanical paradise, but the parkland itself is older. It was formed in 1903 when the shallowest sections of the beautiful Swan River were filled in and the red-bricked Supreme Court was built.
Look closely for parts of the original river wall near the Supreme Court. Also admire the city’s oldest-surviving public building, the Old Court House, tucked in between the Stirling Gardens and the Supreme Court Gardens. It’s also home to the Old Court House Law Museum.
Stroll around the grounds to see the many different trees and flowers that grow in the garden. Roll out a picnic blanket and enjoy the views of the iconic Swan Bells as you eat your lunch. Enjoy the cool breezes that often blow in across the Swan River from the direction of Fremantle. The “Freo Doctor” is a welcome summer visitor when the temperatures can soar to above 40 C (104 F).
The park’s solemn ANZAC Day service on April 25 is centred on the JJ Talbot Hobbs memorial at the entrance. Opera in the Park can be equally moving and Carols by Candlelight in the days leading up to Christmas gets everyone’s spirits up.
The Supreme Court Gardens are situated near the riverfront in the heart of Perth, which means you can easily get here with public transport, including the cheap CAT ferry and the free blue CAT bus that runs through the city. Access is free all year round.