Close to the Swan River and just half an hour's drive east of Perth is Guildford, the gateway to the Swan Valley.

Guildford is the only town in the Perth metropolitan area classified by the National Trust of Australia. Established in 1829 as a market town and an inland port to serve the agricultural hinterland, Guildford was one of the first three settlements of the Swan River Colony. The Swan and Helena Rivers traverse and partially surround the town, providing picturesque walk trails and lovely scenery.

Much of the original town plan is still intact and many fine civic, commercial and private buildings dating from the 1840s through to the interwar period of the 1920s and 1930s can be seen.

The museum situated in the Court House has many items donated by relatives of early settlers. The costume and fabric collection is one of the best in Western Australia, with special exhibitions held at various times during the year.

There are many fine restaurants in Guildford and four hotels. The hotels are open seven days a week and most of the restaurants are open Wednesday to Sunday.

Accommodation ranges from hotels, motels and resorts to bed and breakfasts, farm stays and caravan parks.

Walk maps and information guides are available at the information centre. Book your tours and accommodation at the centre or phone 9379 9420 for further information.