If you’re looking for a scenic cool season escape, then make sure you visit Northam in WA’s Wheatbelt, where river serenity, history and adventure blend to create an ideal spot to relax, explore and connect with culture and nature.
Nestled along the Avon River and just 90 minutes from Perth via the Great Eastern Highway, the small town of Northam is a beautiful representation of the Avon Valley region’s charm. Whether you’re passing through or looking for a weekend retreat, Northam offers an experience that’s as peaceful as it is exciting. With a welcoming community, rich history and no shortage of scenic spots, it’s a town that invites visitors to explore at their own pace.
And the cooler months are the perfect time of year to visit this WA destination, when the weather is kind, local businesses are thriving and (in spring) the wildflowers are blooming. Summer tends to be hot and dry and there are less attractions on offer, so we recommend planning accordingly.
This Wheatbelt town is located just off the Great Eastern Highway
Riverbank reflections
Flowing through the centre of town, the Avon River is Northam’s heartbeat. Its tranquil banks are lined with beautiful landscaping and a dedicated walk and bike circuit. There are plenty of spots to sit, enjoy a riverside picnic, soak up the serenity and birdwatch.
The Northam Suspension Bridge is one of Northam’s most iconic features. Built in 1975, it is one of Australia’s longest pedestrian suspension bridges and a favourite for photographers. Catch it at sunrise or soak in the colours at dusk — either way, it’s a great spot to pause and enjoy panoramic views of the river and town.
Northam Suspension Bridge
White swans nest along the Avon River in Northam
And make sure you keep an eye out for the graceful white swans that call the Avon River home, using the banks in and around Northam as a natural breeding ground.
Walk through Northam’s history
History-lovers will be in their element in Northam. Established in the 1830s, this small town has a significant number of heritage-listed buildings. Its architecture tells the story of eras gone by, from colonial cottages and facades to striking Art Deco and Brutalist structures.
Wander through the town centre, particularly along Fitzgerald Street, to see an array of preserved and repurposed buildings. At either end of Fitzgerald Street stand two exceptional structures recognised by the Australian Institute of Architects: the Northam Library and former Town of Northam Chamber Offices, both designed by architect Iwan Iwanoff and now celebrated as iconic examples of enduring Brutalist design.
You’ll also find the Farmers’ Home Hotel, a beautifully restored 1860s landmark that now blends its original heritage architecture with modern design. Inside, you’ll find boutique accommodation, a cafe and the Temperance Bar. It’s a great example of Northam’s heritage being honoured and reimagined.
Just outside the town centre, Morby Cottage, built in 1836, stands as one of the oldest surviving colonial residences in WA. Built by John Morrell, the founder of Northam, it was built using locally sourced materials bar the original timber window frames and doors that Morrell brought with him from England. The cottage served as the town’s first school, church, courthouse and post office and is now open to the public on Sundays or by appointment, offering a tangible link to the town’s beginnings.
Also worth a visit is the Northam Heritage Centre, located in the original railway station. Featuring exhibits, photographs, artefacts plus the restored vintage steam engine and carriages, it’s a must-visit for rail enthusiasts and history buffs.
For a deeper dive into Northam’s history, follow the Historic Town Drive or join a Guided Heritage Walking Tour (for groups of 10 or more) or grab a self-guided map from the Northam Visitors Centre to explore at your own pace.
Wildflowers in spring
Art around every corner
From historical architecture to modern expression, Northam’s creative scene is rich and diverse. The Northam Public Art Trail is a great way to explore the town’s artistic identity. Murals and sculptures along streets and laneways reflect local stories, farming traditions and wildlife.
The Northam Historical Town Sculptures are a highlight — 12 bronze and steel figures dotted along Fitzgerald Street mark significant places and characters from the town’s past. In Bernard Park, the quirky Sound Sculpture Project, a horse built from scrap metal by Nick Compton, Simon Gilby and Ian Hill with help from local students in 1991, remains a favourite with kids and photographers alike.
The Last Swans mural by Amok Island on the Northam Flour Mill
Don’t miss the iconic Northam Silo Art on Northam–Toodyay Road — the first painted silos in Australia. Completed in 2015 by two internationally acclaimed artists — Phlegm and HENSE — the Northam Silo Art sparked the beginning of FORM’s PUBLIC Silo Art Trail and a trend that has transformed Australia’s rural landscapes.
(For some more silo art inspiration, check out the Silo Art Ultimate Guide)
For more art, check out the Avon Valley Arts Society’s gallery and exhibition in the Northam Visitors Centre. The society holds regular events and workshops for those who want to tap into their own creativity, and also sells items created by its members.
Soaring above the scenery
If you really want a new perspective, look to the skies. Northam is the hot air ballooning capital of WA, with flights running between April and November every year. The Northam Elevate Festival in June recently attracted more than 8000 visitors, eager to watch the colourful fleet lift into the sky.
Preparations begin before sunrise, and while the balloon is inflated you can enjoy watching the sun peek over the horizon before stepping aboard. Drifting over the valley with its patchwork of pastoral and grazing land while the sun rises is an unforgettable way to see the region — peaceful, awe-inspiring and perfect for special occasions or photographers. Several local operators run flights, so check online and book in advance.
Gain a new appreciation for this region’s beautiful landscapes
Bilya Koort Boodja Centre
The heart of the town’s cultural learning beats at the Bilya Koort Boodja Centre, where visitors can delve into Nyoongar culture and environmental knowledge. The centre’s name means ‘river heart land’ in the Nyoongar language, which speaks to its mission: to celebrate and share the stories of the Ballardong Nyoongar people.
Exhibits take you through generations of Aboriginal history, from Dreamtime stories to contemporary expressions of Indigenous identity. Through interactive displays, touchscreens and audiovisual storytelling, visitors learn about bush medicine, traditional land care, seasonal cycles and the enduring connection between people and place.
One of the most moving experiences is listening to recorded interviews with elders, whose voices carry generations of stories, teachings and personal reflections.
Explore the many exhibits and displays in Bilya Koort Boodja Centre
Food, flavour and community
Northam’s food scene is down-to-earth, offering a great blend between classic Aussie meals and cuisine that reflects the region’s multicultural roots. You’ll find country classics and fresh takes on cafe fare in the town’s bakeries, pubs and restaurants. Wander the heart of town to find options like Lacy’s Tearooms, Zax & Co or Lume Bar & Bistro for breakfast and lunch — a new cafe, Terra Mare, has just opened near the visitor centre and has a great breakfast menu. For heartier meals with a side of history, drop into one of the town’s heritage pubs such as the Rec Hotel or Farmers’ Home Hotel.
Monthly markets showcase produce from across the region — honey, cheeses, olives and handmade goods. The Northam Lions Community Markets in Bernard Park on the first Saturday, offer great ways to mingle with locals and sample fresh, local flavours.
Outdoor adventures
Nature lovers have plenty to keep them busy in and around Northam. Here are some great options to check out:
- Bernard Park: A favourite picnic spot with barbecues, playgrounds and even a water play area for kids. The park also includes an enclosure for the famous white swans.
- Avon River Walk Trail: A scenic 3.4km loop that starts in Bernard Park and traces the river’s edge and provides lovely views.
- Dorntj Koorliny Trail: A 17.5km loop named for the Nyoongar term ‘Walking Together’. Following the Avon River, it’s ideal for cycling or hiking and can be done in shorter sections. It’s most striking in the wetter months when the river swells and wildlife abounds but is subject to flooding.
- The Kep Track: A long-distance trail that follows a disused railway line, ideal for walking, riding or horseback adventures. The 75km trail stretches from Northam to Mundaring and is an immersive journey through forest, farmland and old townships.
- Mount Ommanney Lookout: Take a short drive or walk up Mount Ommanney for panoramic views over the valley and town below.
Follow the scenic Avon River Walk Trail
Exploring the Avon Valley
Northam is an ideal hub for discovering more of the Avon Valley. Nearby towns such as Toodyay (just 20 minutes away) and York offer colonial architecture, boutique stores, historic rail sites and excellent walking trails.
Toodyay in particular is worth a visit if you’re around during local events like the Toodyay Farmers Markets (third Saturday of every month) or the Toodyay Picnic Races (28 September).
Upcoming events
Northam’s calendar is packed with seasonal celebrations, sporting spectacles and community get-togethers. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, there’s often something happening that showcases the town’s welcoming spirit and diverse interests.
One of the biggest events of the year is the Avon Descent,a two-day, 124km white-water race that starts in Northam on 9 August 2025 before moving down the river to Perth. Kayaks, surf skis and powerboats take on the rapids of the Avon and Swan Rivers. Northam kicks things off in style with a vibrant Bilya Festival (8 August 2025) featuring live music, food trucks, market stalls and family entertainment.
Other events to mark in your diary:
- Northam Agricultural Show: 13 September 2025
- Northam Cup: 26 October 2025
- Carols on Fitzgerald: 5 December 2025
Pop-up markets, exhibitions and family events are also held throughout the year, many hosted in the town’s parks or heritage venues. Keep an eye on the town’s event calendar (northam.wa.gov.au/events) and the Visit Northam socials to find out more.
And if you’re venturing to nearby Toodyay, events worth checking out include:
- Toodyay Picnic Races: 28 September 2025
- Toodyay Rodeo: 15 November 2025
Soak up the serenity in Northam, WA
Where to stay in Northam
There are a range of accommodation options for caravanners, campers and travellers alike.
For those towing a van:
- Northam Caravan Park
- Summer Creek Farm, Bakers Hill: includes a restaurant and brewery
- Northam RV Park (48hr): free for self-contained vehicles (no tents). It’s located next to the river walking trail. There’s potable water and a dump point available.
If you don’t have your van or want to immerse yourself in a piece of the region’s history, consider Buckland Estate, Fairway Manor, Roseneath Cottage, Katrine Steading, The Rec or Farmers Home Hotel.
Northam Caravan Park
Set your pace to the river
In an age of hurried travel and bucket lists, Northam is a small but vibrant town that reminds visitors to slow down, soak up the serenity and explore at their own pace. From short stays to extended getaways, it welcomes all travellers — and you’ll leave with a new appreciation for the landscape, people and history that shape this beautiful part of WA. Just remember to slow down to the river’s pace and let Northam surprise you.
For more travel inspiration, check out the Visit Northam socials: Instagram | Facebook
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