Western Australias capital city of Perth is unique for retaining its old-world demureness in the midst of a bustling cosmopolitan town, making its charm difficult to duplicate. One of the areas that most reflects its urban sense of history is St. Georges Terrace, which is a major arterial road running through the heart of the Perth business district. Running parallel to the scenic Swan River, the high-rise buildings lining either side of the cobbled street creates a wind tunnel effect. Nevertheless, this does not deter sight-seers, as the street is home to many of Perths most significant historic dwellings.
The attractions of this street are manifold, from the magnificent St. Georges Cathedral from which the street derives its name, to the Barracks Arch that marks its western end, and the footpath of 150 bronze tablets in between, which commemorates the prominent historical figures of Western Australia.
The Cathedral of St. George serves as the Anglican Diocese of Western Australia. A Greek revivalist architectural gem of the pioneers, it houses a beautiful collection of icons, stained-glass windows and memorials of notable citizens of the past. The terrace was originally occupied by the residences of the cathedrals clergy and lay clerks; some of these buildings, such as the Deanery, still remain.
Of all the many Tudor-style constructs that line the streetscape, the London Court occupies pride of place. A four-level open-roofed shopping arcade, its main draws are the clock towers at its northern and southern entrances. Every time the clocks chime, four mechanical knights emerge and joust at the northern tower while a miniature St. George engages a dragon in the southern one.
Brick and stone edifices is not the sole form of attraction on the street. Stirling Gardens is the states first botanical garden, with ornate trees and imported varieties of exotic flora spilling onto the well-manicured lawns. The grounds are littered with finely crafted statues and houses the citys oldest surviving public building, the Old Court House.
It is not difficult to find accommodation that offers easy access to this area.
Perth Apartment accommodation as well as regular hotels can be found aplenty within the city centre. Those favoring
serviced apartments Perth should consider Somerset St. Georges Terrace, as the residence is ideally situated on the very street after which the hotel is named.
