Guide to Northam Western Australia Australia

Located just over an hour’s drive from Perth on the Great Eastern Highway, Northam makes a perfect day trip, weekender or base from which to explore the Avon Valley.

The Avon River flows through the town and is fringed by soft grassy banks and shady trees, providing numerous picturesque spots where you can relax, stretch out and enjoy the sights and sounds of the river. The Avon is home to an abundance of birdlife including the graceful white swans, found nowhere else in Western Australia.

Spanning the river, Northam’s pedestrian suspension bridge is the longest of its kind in Australia and makes an ideal spot from which to photograph the swans. This beautiful setting is further enhanced by the Avon Valley Visitor Centre, which houses the Tourist Information Centre, a cafe with alfresco dining and a permanent exhibition named ‘A Sense of Place’, showcasing the area’s significant post war migrant history.

Northam is rich in arts and crafts. Many wonderful souvenirs are available as a memento of your trip or a gift for someone special.

Morby Cottage, built in 1836 by one of Northam’s first families, stands as an excellent tribute to the spirit of the district’s early pioneers. After undergoing a restoration in 1987 which cost AUD$32,000, the cottage is now listed with the National Trust.

The Northam Heritage Trail includes a two kilometre town walk and a four kilometre town drive to help you discover some of Northam’s pioneering heritage.

Several hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts are available. Northam also has a caravan park and, for those wishing to have more of a rural/farming experience, there are also several farm stay properties available.