Heritage shopfronts on George Street, live music, a riverside coffee and public art. Here's how I spend a slow Saturday in East Fremantle.
Freo’s quieter neighbour
Fremantle on a Saturday can be hectic. When I want the same old-port charm at a slower pace, I head next door to East Fremantle.
It’s a small, leafy suburb with heritage streetscapes, a beautiful stretch of the Swan River and a handful of great places to eat, drink and listen to music.
Quick facts
- Where: East Fremantle, a few minutes from Fremantle.
- Start: George Street, a designated heritage high street with cafes and old shopfronts.
- Live music: The Duke of George on George Street. Booking ahead is a good idea.
- River: Swan River foreshore with yacht clubs, grassy parks and a riverside path.
- Wander: The Town of East Fremantle’s public art trail.
“East Freo is where I go when I want a Fremantle day without the crowds. It’s walkable, relaxed and right on the river.”
Alex Hamilton, Editor
George Street
Start on George Street, the suburb’s heritage high street. It’s lined with old shopfronts, cafes and small businesses, and the whole street is a designated heritage area. Grab a coffee and a pastry, and take your time browsing.
The grand old Royal George Hotel, just around the corner, is one of the area’s best-known heritage buildings and worth a look.
Live music at the Duke of George
If you’re staying into the afternoon, check what’s on at the Duke of George, a music venue on George Street known for blues, jazz and tribute acts. It’s a proper listening room with good acoustics, and booking ahead is a good idea.
“The acoustics are good. A listening venue. Top class artists.”
glenmca, Tripadvisor review
Down to the river
East Fremantle has a lovely stretch of Swan River foreshore, with yacht clubs, grassy parks and a riverside path. It’s a great spot for a picnic or a walk, and the views up the river are beautiful on a calm afternoon.
Public art trail
The Town of East Fremantle has a public art trail through the suburb. It’s a nice excuse to wander the back streets and see the old cottages and gardens along the way.
“Love this place! Have been at least half a dozen times and alway great vibe.”
K M, Tripadvisor review
East Fremantle is only a few minutes from Fremantle, so you can easily combine the two. See our guide to the best fish and chips by the water for a classic Freo finish. Further south, the Omeo shipwreck snorkel trail at Coogee is a great way to cool off.
Featured image: Calistemon, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions
Browse the heritage shopfronts on George Street, catch live music at the Duke of George, walk the Swan River foreshore and follow the public art trail.
