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Attraction / Museums

Old Court House Law Museum

Old Court House Law Museum is a small central Perth museum inside the city's oldest building. The Old Court House was Perth's first court house, built in 1836, and today it tells stories from Western Australia's legal, civic and social history.

It is a good short stop for visitors already exploring the Perth CBD, Elizabeth Quay, Stirling Gardens, St Georges Terrace or nearby heritage sites.

Last fact-checked: 2026-09-24

Location

Old Court House Law Museum is in Stirling Gardens in central Perth, near Barrack Street and St Georges Terrace.

Why Visit

The museum gives a concise introduction to Western Australia's legal and social history inside Perth's oldest surviving building. It works best as part of a CBD heritage walk rather than as a stand-alone half-day attraction.

The collection includes objects, documents, photographs, costume and artworks connected with the law and civic life.

Opening And Entry

Current visitor information lists free entry and opening from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm. Donations are appreciated.

Check the museum page for special closures before making a dedicated trip.

Accessibility And Facilities

The main courtroom is accessible. Four stairs lead to the museum galleries, and staff can provide access to a virtual tour.

The heritage building has no toilets. Public toilets are available nearby in Supreme Court Gardens.

Getting There Without A Car

The museum is in Stirling Gardens at the corner of Barrack Street and St Georges Terrace. It is straightforward to add to an Elizabeth Quay, Perth Town Hall or central heritage walk.

Final Verdict

Choose it for a focused, free heritage stop with clear historical value. Visitors wanting a large museum or several hours of exhibits should make it one stop within a broader Perth city plan.

Can I visit without a car?

Easy

Old Court House Law Museum is in central Perth, near Stirling Gardens, Barrack Street and St Georges Terrace. It works well as part of a Perth CBD, Elizabeth Quay or heritage walking plan.

Best options

  • Walk from nearby CBD stops
  • Use train, bus or CAT services depending on your start point
  • Check Transperth before leaving

Nearby links for a compact route:

Nearby Attractions

Distances are approximate straight-line measurements between mapped attractions, not walking, driving or public transport distances.

Approx. 0.3 km straight-line

Elizabeth Quay

Explore Elizabeth Quay's public art, bridge, island playground and water park, with a one-hour walk, ferry ideas, food stops and accessible facilities.

Waterfront

View Elizabeth Quay guide

Approx. 0.6 km straight-line

Yagan Square

Yagan Square is a public meeting place between Perth CBD and Northbridge, useful for a short family stop with public art, an adventure playground, a confirmed event or a meal rather than a full-day children's attraction.

Public square and city meeting place

View Yagan Square guide

Approx. 0.7 km straight-line

Art Gallery of Western Australia: Visitor Guide

Plan an AGWA visit with current gallery hours, collection highlights, family activities, accessible facilities and transport advice.

Public art museum and gallery

View Art Gallery of Western Australia: Visitor Guide guide

FAQ

When is the Old Court House Law Museum open?

Current visitor information lists Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm. Check for special closures before travelling.

Is entry free?

Yes. Entry is free and donations are appreciated.

Is the museum accessible?

The main courtroom is accessible. Four stairs lead to the museum galleries, and a virtual tour is available.

Are there toilets in the museum?

No. Public toilets are available nearby in Supreme Court Gardens.

Current visitor information

Verified summary

  • Free entry; donations are appreciated.
  • Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm.
  • The main courtroom is accessible; four stairs lead to the museum galleries.
  • There are no toilets onsite; public toilets are available in Supreme Court Gardens.

May change: Special closures, exhibitions and opening arrangements.

Official visitor information: Old Court House Law Museum official page

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