I recently had a few days in Perth (September 2008) and had the opportunity to look at Government House, located in the city centre.
My first view of this stately building (built 1863) was from behind the tall railings that surround the elegant structure, set in lavish gardens. .
Through the fence, I could see mysterious Gothic archways, imposing towers, official flags and I must admit, it inspired a closer look.
But when I started making inquiries, it appeared that the building itself was only open for guided tours about three or four times a year. So if you are visiting Perth, you would indeed be lucky to coincide with one of these dates, which are advertised in the press.
Nevertheless, I began walking around the fenced perimeter of the house and gardens, wondering if it was possible to at least get into to see the magnificent gardens.
I was in luck as it turned out. I didn't have to climb the fence. A side entrance displayed a notice which said - Open 12-2pm. It's free to go in and browse around the gardens during this time of day.
Once in the grounds, it was obvious that many Perth office workers were taking advantage of this. I would rate the gardens as a peaceful oasis within the CBD, a great place to relax in manicured surroundings. Not too many tourists seemed to take advantage of this, but the locals certainly used the gardens as a handy lunch spot.
The gardens cover around 3.2 hectares, and have been set out in Arcadian landscape style. Apparently this style of landscaping was popular in England during the 18th and 19th centuries.
It was a pleasure for me to wander along shady pathways, admiring the native and exotic species around me. If you are into viewing well-tended garden areas, then this is a nice spot to come to.
If I'd come to Perth just a few weeks later, I would have seen the spring flowers in full bloom, but quite a few colourful beds had already blossomed , making it very photogenic. .
Massive trees - some looking like they dated back to the mid 1800's - gave peace and harmony to the gardens.
The gardens are divided roughly into an upper area and a lower area. The lower part is reached by a series of steps . I found a small ornamental pond at the far end. In it, I spotted a chap in a canoe - probably a gardener - who seemed to be fishing around with a net. Probably he was getting rid of algae or doing some sort of maintenance. The gardening staff seem to work very enthusiastically at their jobs.
In the lower gardens, you can see tall palms towering in majestic fashion. Handy park benches are available if you want to sit and relax.
Both upper and lower gardens have immaculate lawn areas. There is a tennis court next to Government house, but I gather that it was not for public use and anyway, I hadn't brought my racquet.
If you are interested in more info about the house itself, there is a handy website at www.govhouse.wa.gov.au which gives details of the interior layout.
In summing up this review, if you are in Perth, and are seeking a quiet and pleasant respite from shopping or busy traffic, then my advice is to take advantage of the midday opening hours to relax and enjoy the very well tended Government gardens and admire the elegant residence.