Perth: Arcades & Laneways Walking Tour with Drink

Summary

Perth’s arcades and laneways reveal quirky history and local color

You’ll wander Perth’s arcades and hidden laneways with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story. Expect unexpected street art, real conversations about history, and time to soak up the city’s sounds before ending with a well-earned drink. If you want to feel the pulse of downtown Perth instead of just seeing it, this is your walk.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the echo of our footsteps under the old clock at Perth Town Hall — that hollow sound you only get in places with thick stone and high ceilings. Our guide, Sam, had this way of pointing out tiny details I’d never have noticed alone (like the carved faces above the doors). There was a group of schoolkids nearby on some field trip, all giggles and backpacks, which made me smile — I guess these streets mean something different depending on who you are.

We ducked into London Court next. It’s got this odd, almost theatrical feel — like someone tried to squeeze a bit of Tudor England between glass towers and coffee shops. The smell inside was a mix of pastry and old wood. Sam told us about how Perth got its name (I’d never actually thought about it before), and then pointed out Yagan’s story — honestly, I felt a bit embarrassed not knowing more about him. The history here isn’t always comfortable, but it sticks with you.

After that we wandered through narrow laneways plastered with wild street art — some pieces looked fresh, others half-faded by sun and rain. There was one mural so bright it almost hurt my eyes; Sam laughed when I squinted at it. We stopped for a bit just to listen: distant tram bells, someone playing guitar badly around the corner (I still hear that off-key chorus in my head). The city felt alive but not rushed — more like it was letting us in on its secrets.

By the time we finished up with a cold drink (beer for me), my feet were tired but in that good way where you know you’ve really seen a place. Not everything made sense right away — some stories linger longer than others — but that’s kind of why I keep thinking about this day trip around central Perth.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Perth's historic arcades and laneways

• Begin at Perth Town Hall
• Visit London Court arcade

Top questions

Where does the Perth Arcades & Laneways walking tour start?

The tour begins at the historic Perth Town Hall.

Is the walking tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces on this tour are wheelchair accessible.

How long is the Arcades & Laneways walking tour?

The guided walking tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Do I need to bring anything special for this tour?

No special items needed; just dress appropriately for weather as the tour operates rain or shine.

Is there a drink included at the end of the tour?

Yes, your choice of beer, wine or soft drink is included at the conclusion of the tour.

Are infants or small children allowed on this walking tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

Will we visit London Court during this walking tour?

Yes, London Court is one of the main stops on this itinerary.

Who leads the Arcades & Laneways walking tour in Perth?

A professional local host guides you through central Perth's arcades and laneways.

What’s included

Your day includes a 2.5 hour guided walking tour in English through central Perth’s arcades and laneways, plenty of stories from your professional local host about local history (and some fun surprises), plus your choice of beer, wine or soft drink to wrap things up together at the end before heading back out into downtown Perth on your own time.