History on Tap

The Swan Valley and Guildford have some of the most beautiful historic pubs in the state - make sure you drop by for a taste of days gone by, with a modern twist.

By TOM DE SOUZA

GUILDFORD, THE ENTRY to the Swan Valley, is huge on pubs. There’s everything from historic old watering holes, full of character and story, to new and trendy venues. These are some of the area’s best.

The Rose and Crown, Guildford

The Rose and Crown sits on Guildford’s leafy Swan Street, and has been a welcome resting place for tourists and travellers for over 150 years. It was built on two-and-ahalf acres in 1841. Thomas Jecks was the original owner of the hotel, and he built it shortly after opening a general store in Guildford.

Built from local hand-made bricks laid in a Flemish bond, the headers and stretchers are laid alternately in each course. The steep, pitched roof was made from native and English hardwoods and originally covered in timber shingles.

The hotel has since been renovated, with the most recent restoration done by Mark and Tracy Weber, who have owned the pub since 2004. While it now features modern facilities such as spa baths and plasma TVs in the hotel rooms, it maintains its classic Georgian design and down-home country pub feel. The one room that remains in virtually original condition is the 1841 Dining Room.

Some say that the ghosts of convicts and former publicans roam the corridors, and the pub has even featured on a number of TV shows. The ABC sent in a ‘ghost whisperer’ when filming the pub for a TV programme, and he believed he encountered a number of spirits there.

Registered with the National Trust, this is WA’s oldest operating hotel and the third oldest licensed hotel in Australia, and is a true West Australian landmark.

The Guildford, Guildford

The Guildford Hotel is a heritage listed pub on James Street, and was first bought for £600 in 1880, two years after the Fremantle to Guildford railway was built. It remains just a short walk from the Guildford train station.

In 2008, the hotel was razed by a fire, and has been rebuilt in the original style of exposed brick, repurposed timber, brass finishes, and recovered decor. There is a beautiful baroque facade and belvedere tower.

Of course, there are a few modern twists, like the retractable roof over the courtyard,

DIY espresso martini kits, cheeseburger spring rolls and sticky pork bao. The Guildford remains on the State Heritage register, a true gem in our state’s social history.

The Stirling Arms, Guildford

The Stirlo, as it’s affectionately known, was built in the 19th century on the back of convict labour. In that era, convicts received a ticket-of-leave before their sentences expired, which freed them to seek employment, marry, and own property, and this hotel was built with ticket-of-leave labour. Built in 1852, the pub has a rich history as one of the oldest pubs in WA. Today, a classic feel blends with contemporary style, and the original heritage bars have been combined into the 1852 Lounge Bar while the sleek, modern Lot 142 Beer Garden offers al-fresco dining at the front of the building.

The Henley Brook, Swan Valley

Affectionately known as ‘The Hen’, The Henley Brook is the Swan Valley’s local roost. They work closely with local producers, brewers, and wine makers to bring you some of the freshest tasting food and drink in the region.

While the venue is new, the property is steeped in history. It’s home to the heritage-listed Richard Edwards’ House, built as part of the Swan River Colony in 1837. The venue keeps with the colonial design theme, and features sweeping, rustic verandahs and an outdoor area shaded by old established trees.

There’s loads of seating both indoors and out, an extensive all-day menu, and a range of top craft beers available on tap. There are also locally made spirits and a wide range of wines. The Valley’s newest pub truly has something for everyone.

The Mallard DUCK, SWAN VALLEY

The Duck draws its name from a large open lake on the beautiful grounds, which is host to all kinds of geese, ducks, coots,

kookaburras and more.

The Duck’s menu boasts a balance of diverse, but familiar favourites. Think country comfort with a modern flair: share plates, first-class cocktails, and local beers and wine.

The Duck is an 18+ venue on weekends, so it’s the perfect sanctuary for date nights and get-togethers with friends.

There are breathtaking views, live entertainment, and sexy, soothing saxophone tunes. The venue is suave, vibrant, and cool as a duck, and this tranquil nest lets you sit back, relax, and check-out. SV

MAKING HISTORY

Opposite, The Stirling Arms has always been popular. The Mallard Duck offers a modern spin on pub favourites. Above, the historic Rose and Crown.