An impressive neo-Gothic building surrounded by lovely elm-shaded gardens, the Fremantle Arts Centre was constructed by convict labourers as a lunatic asylum in the 1860s. Saved from demolition in the 1960s, it houses interesting exhibitions and the excellent Canvas cafe. During summer there are concerts (free on Sunday afternoons), courses and workshops.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Army Museum of WA

0.17 MILES

Situated within the imposing Artillery Barracks, this little museum pulls out the big guns, literally. Howitzers and tanks line up outside, while inside…

2. Samson House

0.23 MILES

A well-preserved 1888 colonial home owned by the National Trust.

4. Fremantle Prison

0.5 MILES

With its forbidding 5m-high walls, the old convict-era prison dominates Fremantle. Various daytime tours explore the jail's maximum-security past, give…

5. Pietro Porcelli Statue

0.56 MILES

Renowned Italian sculptor Pietro Porcelli (1872–1943) is responsible for many works around WA. This piece by fellow sculptor Greg James depicts him making…

6. John Curtin Statue

0.57 MILES

Statue of former member for Fremantle and WWII Labor prime minister of Australia, John Curtin.

8. Town Hall

0.57 MILES

Opened on Queen Victoria's jubilee in 1887.