University of Western Australia

Details: Written by: Nita Teoh; Category: Places of Interest; Published: 10 December 2008

Places of Interest

University of Western Australia
35 Stirling Hwy
Crawley WA 6009

Enjoy the splendour of the UWA Crawley campus

Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful grounds of the University of Western Australia's main campus in the suburb of Crawley. The campus grounds located on Noongar land stretch far and wide alongside the Matilda Bay foreshore and the banks of the Swan River.

UWA was established as the State's first university in 1911 and was named after Sir John Winthrop Hackett, its first Chancellor and the person who was instrumental in its establishment. It is the State's premier University and has a reputation for academic excellence and research. It is also well known for having one of the most beautiful campuses in the State and across the Nation.

To get your bearings, start at the main entrance of the University located on Stirling Highway. Take your time to wander through the campus grounds as it is fairly extensive. Perth Walkabout suggests the following points of interest at UWA.

Whitfeld Court
Whitfeld Court is the area outside Winthrop Hall and the Reflection Pool is a popular landmark. The limestone archways leading to Winthrop Hall is a very popular spot for wedding shoots. During graduation season, as graduates celebrate their Convocation with family and friends, the Reflection Pool and Winthrop Hall makes a stunning backdrop at night time.

Winthrop Hall
Winthrop Hall with its majestic clock tower is the university's signature building and is often the subject of much photography. If you are lucky enough to have a peek inside Winthrop Hall, pass through the pretty mosaic foyer and enter the cathedral like atmosphere of this impressive hall. It commands a grand presence with its stained glass windows, high ceilings and the prominent McGillivray pipe organ. The Winthrop Hall has unique acoustics and is often used for classical concerts and operas.

Sunken Gardens
Tucked away near Winthrop Hall, Sunken Gardens are located at the closest corner of Fairway and Stirling Highway and had its beginnings as a humble sand quarry. It has been used as an amphitheatre for many decades and was even patronised by a Hollywood celebrity or two during its early days. It is a magical spot to sit in the amphitheatre to relax and have a quiet moment or two. Enjoy the ponds and walkover bridge and have a look at the sundial located adjacent to the Sunken Gardens.

Lawrence Wilson Art Gallery
Whilst you are at the Sunken Gardens, the Lawrence Wilson Art Gallery is a stone's throw from the gardens. If you have an interest in Arts and Culture, visit the University's own Art Gallery right on campus. The University has its own extensive art collection and often has roving exhibitions on display. The opening hours for the Art Gallery are Tuesdays to Fridays 11am to 5pm and Sundays 12pm to 5pm.

Tropical Grove
The Tropical Grove is located near the Reid Library. It is a lovely tropical area filled with tall palm trees and undergrowth as the dappled light casts a beautiful ambiance.

UWA Club
The UWA Club which opened its doors in 2005 is one of the newer buildings on campus. It is the hub of daily events and functions as UWA staff, students, Alumni members and the corporate sector mingle. If you are a member of UWA Club or a visitor of a UWA Club member, enjoy drinks out on the terrace at the Club Cafe and Bar or enjoy a meal at the Club restaurant.

Somerville Theatre
During summer time, the Somerville Theatre set amongst a canopy of pine trees is a very popular place to watch international movies as part of the LotteryWest Perth International Arts Festival. Read more at Catch an Outdoor Movie during Summer.

Octagon Theatre
The Octagon Theatre is a popular venue for music, dance, theatre, comedy, and seminars. Wander to the Octagon Theatre and see what is showing. It is also a BOCS ticketing agent. Go to Event Bookings in Perth.

Other Perth Walkabout articles

Kings Park

South Perth Foreshore

Perth Zoo

Point Fraser Wetlands

Coming Up

Matilda Bay foreshore

Cafes along Hampden Rd in Nedlands

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