The Old Mill South Perth
Explore WA's oldest colonial structure, a restored 1835 tower mill offering free entry and historical insights.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
The Old Mill South Perth
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore WA's oldest colonial structure, a restored 1835 tower mill offering free entry and historical insights.
"An interesting piece of history to look at off Mill Point Road."
Free Entry & Donations
:moneybag: Entry is free, but donations are appreciated to help preserve this historic site.
Check Opening Hours
:clock: Operated by volunteers, so check official hours before visiting.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Tower Mill
South Perth
Explore Western Australia's oldest colonial structure, a restored tower mill built in 1835. Discover its fascinating history and former operations.
Interactive Displays
Inside the Mill and Cottage
Engage with informative signs and labeled objects that bring the mill's past to life. Learn about its flour-grinding days and later uses.

Cottage Exploration
Adjacent Cottage
Step inside the adjacent cottage to get a feel for historical living conditions and the site's broader heritage.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Entry, Donations Welcome
Check Opening Times
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry & Donations
:moneybag: Entry is free, but donations are appreciated to help preserve this historic site.
Check Opening Hours
:clock: Operated by volunteers, so check official hours before visiting.
Guided Tours Available
:walking: National Trust guided tours offer deeper historical insights for a small fee.
Bus Access
:bus: Bus 35 from Perth bus station stops very close by.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry & Donations
:moneybag: Entry is free, but donations are appreciated to help preserve this historic site.
Check Opening Hours
:clock: Operated by volunteers, so check official hours before visiting.
Guided Tours Available
:walking: National Trust guided tours offer deeper historical insights for a small fee.
Bus Access
:bus: Bus 35 from Perth bus station stops very close by.
Historical Significance
:scroll: Learn about WA's oldest colonial structure, built in 1835.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise The Old Mill South Perth for its historical significance as WA's oldest colonial structure and its engaging, free-to-enter format. The informative displays, accessible cottage, and friendly volunteers contribute to a positive experience, making it a worthwhile quick visit for history enthusiasts and families alike.
"This was a great experience! I really enjoyed reading all the signs and finding out interesting titbits of history from the area. There is some great information to be learned! 💡
It is a pretty interactive place as you can go in and up the first floor of the windmill and also into the cottage.
The signs are very easy to read and are informative. The objects dotted around are also labelled which is helpful! 🏷
Entry is free but donations 💰 are an option which is easy. Lovely friendly volunteers and well kept area.
There are benches, a water fountain and toilet 🚻 facilities.
It was very enjoyable to learn about the history of the area :)"
Emily Keye
"One of the oldest structures in South Perth, built in 1835 & operational until 1859. Used for grinding flour. Well worth a look around, it's now operated by the National Trust who do guided tours for a small fee. Open only at certain times"
Diana Waines
"Worth a visit to appreciate the history and thanks to South Council to protect the history.
A very small set up. 30 minutes is sufficient for viewing. Free entrance. Donation is appreciated.
We took bus 35 from Perth bus station.
The bus stop is only a very short 50 meters away from the Oil Mill entrance.
Please click LIKE for support. TQ."
Surjit Rai
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach The Old Mill South Perth by car or public transport. Bus route 35 from Perth bus station stops very close to the entrance, making it a convenient option.
If driving, there is parking available nearby. Some visitors have noted it's visible from the freeway when driving south.Yes, parking is generally available near The Old Mill South Perth, though it can be limited during peak times. It's advisable to arrive a little early if you're driving.
If you are staying in the South Perth area, walking to The Old Mill is a pleasant option, especially along the foreshore. It's a well-known local landmark.
Absolutely! Bus 35 from Perth bus station is a direct route and stops just a short distance from the mill, making it very accessible for those relying on public transport.
The nearest bus stop for Bus 35 is only about 50 meters from The Old Mill entrance, offering excellent convenience for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to The Old Mill South Perth is free! Donations are gratefully accepted to help with the preservation and maintenance of this historic site.
No, tickets are not required as entry is free. However, if you wish to join a guided tour, it's best to check the National Trust's schedule and availability, as these may have a small fee and specific times.
The Old Mill is operated by volunteers, so its opening hours can vary. It's highly recommended to check the official National Trust website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date opening times before your visit.
Yes, the National Trust offers guided tours for a small fee. These tours provide in-depth historical information and are a great way to learn more about the mill's past.
The education centre is part of the overall site, and entry to The Old Mill South Perth is free. Any associated costs would typically be for guided tours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the restored tower mill, step inside the adjacent cottage, and read informative signs detailing the site's history. It's a great place to learn about Western Australia's colonial past.
Most visitors find that 30 minutes to an hour is sufficient to explore the site and absorb the historical information. If you opt for a guided tour, allow a bit more time.
Yes, children can enjoy exploring the mill and cottage. The interactive signs and historical context can be educational and engaging for younger visitors.
Yes, there are toilet facilities available at The Old Mill South Perth, along with benches for resting and a water fountain.
Photography is generally permitted at The Old Mill South Perth. It's a picturesque historical site, perfect for capturing some memories.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the tower mill itself offers classic shots, especially with the surrounding greenery. The adjacent cottage also provides a charming backdrop. Consider the interpretive signs for unique detail shots.
Absolutely! As Western Australia's oldest surviving colonial structure, The Old Mill South Perth is a prime location for historical photography, capturing a piece of the state's early history.
You can access and photograph the first floor of the windmill. The cottage interior is also accessible for photography, offering a glimpse into historical living.
While generally permitted, it's always good practice to be respectful of other visitors and the historical nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography, especially during guided tours.
Morning light can be lovely for illuminating the mill's structure, while late afternoon can offer softer, warmer tones. Consider the weather for dramatic skies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
With free entry and accessible facilities like toilets and water fountains, it's a practical choice for a family outing. The relatively short visit time also means it's perfect for keeping younger attention spans engaged. Consider a picnic in the nearby parklands after your visit.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the detailed interpretive signs that cover both First Nations and European historical narratives associated with the site. The mill's story, from its flour-grinding days to its later use as a hotel/bar and eventual heritage classification, is a compelling narrative of colonial development and preservation.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers from Perth
Allow just an hour or two to fully appreciate the mill's history and explore the site. The free entry makes it a budget-friendly option, and the informative displays provide a satisfying dose of local heritage without requiring a full day commitment. It's a perfect way to add a touch of history to your Perth exploration.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Colonial History
Over time, the mill fell into disrepair and was later restored by the State Government and then the National Trust. Today, it is recognized as Western Australia's oldest surviving colonial structure and is classified as a heritage site. Visitors can explore the restored mill, learn about its operational history, and understand its importance in the region's development.
The site also includes an education centre and an adjacent cottage, offering a more comprehensive understanding of life during that era. The interpretive signs throughout the site provide fascinating details about both First Nations and European history connected to the location, making it an engaging educational experience for all ages.
Exploring the Site and Its Features
Adjacent to the mill is a historic cottage, which visitors can also enter. This provides insight into the domestic life of the period, complementing the industrial focus of the mill itself. The entire area is dotted with labeled objects and informative displays that make learning about the history accessible and interactive.
For visitor comfort, the site is equipped with benches for resting, a water fountain, and toilet facilities. These amenities ensure a pleasant and convenient visit. The surrounding grounds are also well-kept, making it a peaceful spot to reflect on the history.
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