Avon Historic Tourist Drive

This self drive itinerary will take you to all the major townships in the Avon Valley region, starting in Toodyay and visiting Northam, York and Beverley.

From Perth travel north east via The Great Northern Highway and Toodyay Road to the quaint country town of Toodyay.

Stop for morning tea before visiting the Old Gaol Museum, which will take you back 150 years to the time of Moondyne Joe. Wander the cells and take in the history of the old police stables. Also visit Connor's Mill, a fine example of colonial history and architecture.

Northam is your next stop, the home of the famous white swans and the starting point for the popular Avon Descent race. Northam is the largest inland town in Western Australia and the commercial centre for the surrounding farming district.

For the history enthusiast or architecture fan Northam also has a rich collection of historic buildings. Make time to visit Australia's longest suspension bridge which crosses the Avon River. This is a great spot to stop for a picnic lunch or find a nice cafe.

After some exploring and a rest, continue the drive to York. Dating back to 1831, the township of York has museums to be discovered, galleries to wander and plenty more for the whole family.

Travel south from York towards Beverley marked by fine examples of colonial architecture and steeped in tales of pioneering history. Visit the Aeronautical Museum, which has an excellent display of full scale aircraft and aerial paraphernalia.

Head back to Perth along the Brookton Highway.