Discover the Supreme Court Gardens
The Supreme Court Gardens are contained within Perth’s Central Business District, in the city center. Originally, much of the land where the gardens now flourish was submerged under Perth Water. Other areas were reserved for grazing pastures for the Department of Agriculture. Locals often dismissed it as a waste ground, but this perception changed in 1920 when the newly established State Gardens Board undertook a transformative landscaping effort. Today the Supreme Court Gardens are a retreat for visitors framed by the city’s original Court House and the historic Supreme Court building.
The History of the Supreme Court Gardens
The Supreme Court Gardens were originally established as botanical gardens in 1845 but were later chosen to become a public green space to complement the new Supreme Court building. This new building was completed in 1903, after the need to update the old building became apparent in 1902.
In the late 19th century, this area was primarily utilitarian, hosting police facilities and infrastructure for the growing city. As part of the project the existing police stables and Waterside Police Station were demolished, and portions of the river were reclaimed to make way for the new structure. But these efforts were hindered by challenges of drainage and landscaping, meaning the government's vision for a public garden near the court was slow to materialize.
By 1920, however, the garden's design was finalized. The Chief Government Gardener designed a central lawn surrounded by dense shrubs, towering palms, and a variety of trees, laying the groundwork for the gardens we see today.
Throughout the 20th century, the gardens were further developed and integrated with Stirling Gardens. What had been a low-lying, swampy tract became the foundation for a remarkable green space.
Inside the Supreme Court Gardens
The Supreme Court Gardens isn’t just another park in Perth—its large lawns, semi-enclosed by mature trees, garden beds, and meandering pathways, make this a prime spot for picnics, spontaneous yoga sessions, quick soccer games, or a lazy lunch break under the sun.
Got a frisbee? A little pent-up energy? You’ll often spot office workers shedding their corporate personas for a cheeky game before heading back to the grind. If lounging is more your speed, park benches dot the grounds for people-watching or quietly soaking in the river views.
Giving the Supreme Court Gardens a Modern Makeover
In 2015, the Supreme Court Gardens received a $2.5 million upgrade as part of the redevelopment of the nearby Elizabeth Quay precinct. The makeover included fresh lawns, improved drainage, reticulation, and additional amenities.
This renovation has ensured that the gardens continue to act as a place where locals and visitors can seek peace, relaxation, and a good vantage point to enjoy Perth’s skyline and the Swan River.
Interesting Fact: Safety concerns in the 1980s led to significant upgrades in lighting and landscaping during this 2015 renovation, making the gardens the welcoming and safe space they are today.
Events at the Supreme Court Gardens
After their creation, the Supreme Court Gardens’ expansive lawns have been the stage for annual public events like Opera in the Park, the Birak Festival, the annual medieval fair, and even a scale replica of Stonehenge (yes, a bouncy castle version!) during the Perth International Arts Festival. Not to mention the dazzling seasonal highlight, Carols in the City, where families gather for an evening of festive cheer and fireworks under the stars.
In the 1950s, the gardens were graced with a jubilee orchestral shell, an outdoor auditorium that could accommodate a 50-piece orchestra. This orchestral shell was built to celebrate 50 years of Federation and hosted everything from orchestral performances to Festival of Perth events until it was sadly destroyed by fire in 1994.
Even today, the gardens remain a favorite spot for festivals and celebrations, continuing to bring the community together in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Visiting the Supreme Court Gardens
Located at the corner of Barrack Street and Riverside Drive, the Supreme Court Gardens are a short stroll from iconic Perth landmarks like the Bell Tower, Elizabeth Quay, and the shimmering Swan River.
The gardens are also easily accessible from various locations throughout the city with good public transport links, including the Blue CAT bus and Elizabeth Quay Train Station. There’s on-street and paid outdoor parking available too.
Key Amenities:
- Facilities: Accessible toilets, pathways, park benches, and ample shaded areas.
- Connectivity: Free WiFi (perfect for the social media scroll or work emails in a picturesque setting).
- Events-Friendly: Equipped with open spaces, power access (with permits), and a capacity of up to 15,000 people for concerts or rallies.
- Pet-Friendly: Dogs are welcome but must be leashed—perfect for a casual stroll or birdwatching with your furry friend.
It’s an ideal spot for gatherings of all shapes and sizes—be it birthday picnics, corporate team-building exercises, or even a romantic wedding ceremony with the river as your backdrop.
Explore Beyond the Supreme Court Gardens with CityDays
If the Supreme Court Gardens whets your appetite for adventure, why not take your exploration a step further with CityDays’ scavenger and treasure hunt tours?
These tours provide an exciting way to uncover hidden gems, historic sites, and cultural landmarks, combining trivia and interactive challenges to create an unforgettable adventure.
CityDays can turn any city into a playground for discovery and team-building fun. Why not join us?
Not visiting Perth this time? Don’t worry, you’ll find us all over the world.
