Places to visit
The Rail Transport Museum
The Rail Transport Museum is a must-see for railway and history buffs. It offers tourists and visitors a superb collection of locomotives and railway historical memorabilia that charts the opening up of the western third of the continent. The collection is highly significant as it is the only one in Western Australia that aims to tell the story of all railways across the state. Other collections focus on one aspect or a region.
Every October the Rail Transport Museum hosts the annual Railfest which is a celebration of the State's rail heritage conducted by the Rail Heritage Society of WA.
The West Australian Model Railway Club is also based at the rear of the Rail Transport Museum and the entry fee for the Museum includes Model Railway Club displays. The club meets every Wednesday evening from 7:30 p.m. and visitors are always welcome. It has operated for over 50 years and these days it is not so much a matter of toys for the boys but a pastime for the adult enthusiast, keeping train lovers active and sociable. The club models Australian and American trains and visitors can view models of classic trains such as The Indian-Pacific, The Ghan and The Overlander.
The Rail Transport Museum at Bassendean is operated by Rail Heritage WA, and further information, including entry fees and opening times, is available at their website >>>
Information on The West Australian Model Railway Club is available at their website >>>
Walking Trails
Bassendean has some great 30 minute short walks for visitors and tourists. Take a walk through the heart of historic Bassendean village itself; or take a stroll through Eden Hill parklands; or the Ashfield Flats wetland sanctuary on the Swan River.
View or download a brochure for these walks here >>>
You can find further information about a wide range of short walks in the wider Swan Valley and Perth Hills region of Perth at the Perth Trails website >>>
Riverside Picnic Spots
The Town has several excellent picnic spots for families to enjoy the beauty of the Town's environment. Please be aware though that dogs may be prohibited or might require a leash.
A map showing the locations can be seen here >>>
More about parks >>>
Ashfield Flats - Bassendean
Ashfield Flats is a picturesque wildlife reserve and conservation area adjoining Sandy Beach Reserve. The area has been protected for futre generations by being designated a bush forever site. The management of Ashfield Flats is assisted by the Bassendean Preservation Group which has planted hundreds of local flora. Entry to Ashfield Flats is from West Road at the Sandy Beach car park, or from the Hardy Road car park or from Ashfield Parade.
Sandy Beach Reserve
This is a well-grassed reserve on the banks of the Swan River with established trees that provide a comfortable shaded area with river access including a wooden jetty. Facilities include public toilets, children's play structures and barbecues. Entry is from West Road to the car parking area.
Pickering Park and Bindaring Parks
This is an excellent area of natural bush on the river with a wide range of native flora that can be seen all along the walk trails. It is also a good spot for fishing and also features a boat launching ramp. The entrance is from Bassendean Parade.
Point Reserve
This is a lovely reserve with large native trees and lush grass on a tranquil river setting. The Reserve overlooks the confluence of the Swan and Helena Rivers as well as Kings Meadow in Guildford. It has two long jetties for sightseeing and viewing the river flood plains. The park also has public toilet facilites, children's play structures and barbecues. Entry is from Surrey Street or North Road.
Success Hill Reserve
This reserve has a path to a very picturesque lower grassed portion on the Swan River and display boards telling the story of the great importance of the site to Aboriginal culture. Facilities include toilets, children's play structures and barbecues. Entry is off Lord at Success Road.
Perth's Eastern Region
The first thing most visitors to Perth see is the Eastern Region, namely because it is home to both the domestic and international airports. However once their bags are unpacked, over 1 million visitors quickly return to the Region to explore its stunning range of natural attractions and world class facilities.
Whatever type of holiday they have planned, they will find something to bring them to the Region. Highlights include exploring the unique beauty of the Region's national parks, bush walking through the expansive State Forests, leisurely boat cruises up the Swan River, tours of wineries, spending a day at the races or 18 holes of golf at the internationally renowned Vines Resort.
The greatest strengths of the Region are its size and diversity. It has space to accommodate the needs of people and industry. It has room for important economic development and the capacity to preserve its cultural heritage and diverse range of lifestyles.
The Eastern Metropolitan Regional Council (EMRC) has developed a comprehensive website to promote tourism and attractions, along with a wide range of activities in Perth's Eastern Region including:
- Accommodation
- Attractions
- Convention facilities
- Events
- Nature-based tourism
- Tours
- Restaurants
- Wineries
