York, WA: Things to do and attractions

The best things to do in York, WA, include the York Courthouse Complex, Residency Museum and Mount Brown.

York, WA, is the oldest inland town in Western Australia. Part of the Wheatbelt region, York was settled in 1831 – just two years after Perth.

Perth to York drive

Unsurprisingly, heritage plays a large part in York’s appeal. The town has managed to preserve several buildings and churches from the Victorian and Federation eras. The proximity to Perth – the Perth to York drive takes around one hour and 18 minutes – makes York a pleasant spot for a romantic weekend break from the Western Australian capital.

Heritage buildings in York, WA. Photo courtesy of Tourism Western Australia.

York, WA, is the sort of place you just enjoy mooching around. There are a few pleasant cafés, and arty, crafty shops. But you’re coming for that sense of genteel escape rather than any particular gripping tourist attraction.

However, there are a few things to do in York, WA. The York Courthouse Complex hosts many of this Avon Valley town’s most attractive heritage buildings, although it is closed to visitors at the time of writing.

Things to do in York, WA: Residency Museum and York Motor Museum

In terms of cultural attractions, there’s the Residency Museum and York Motor Museum. The York Residency Museum makes a decent fist of local history, but the most interesting chunks of it delve into the culture and history of the Ballardong Noongar people who traditionally inhabit the area.

The York Motor Museum, meanwhile, is very much for people who are a bit too into old cars and motorbikes.

Things to do in York, WA: Bushland Garden and Mount Brown

Things to do in in York on a more natural bent include the York Bushland Garden and Mount Brown. The York Bushland Garden is easily at its best in spring, when the wildflowers are in full bloom. But Mount Brown has its appeal year-round. The Mount Brown Lookout is a five minute drive from the town centre, and provides fabulous 360 degree views.

More towns and cities in Western Australia