Hidden away in the Royal Perth Hospital Heritage Precinct in Murray Street, just minutes away from Perth City Centre, we chanced upon the Royal Perth Hospital Museum after our visit to the Old Central Fire Heritage Centre (it’s just right opposite!). This hidden gem takes visitors on a tour through its magnificent history since its opening in 1855. Young and old can discover how WA’s longest-serving hospital went from an underfunded colonial hospital for the poor to becoming WA’s leading trauma and teaching hospital now!
What we love:
Step inside this time capsule as you learn about the built heritage of Royal Perth Hospital.
Rooms are tagged with their previous use. This room now holds an archive of patient admissions, discharges, and board meetings dating back to 1876!
Get a close-up look at the historical collections of the museum- from pharmacy items to surgical and diagnostic equipment from the late 1800s to 1900s.
The girls were very intrigued by this old operating room set-up.
Learn about the Iron Lung Machine used by polio patient Paul Berry and his story.
Kids will marvel at how medicine has advanced throughout the years! There is a lot to read about how WA’s research and innovation have helped improve treatment in different fields of medicine worldwide.
Interesting stories about key people from RPH, including WA’s first radiologist, William John Hancock. There is also a section about significant events throughout the History of Epidemics from the 1800s to COVID-19.
Along the corridors, you will see all the original nurses’ uniforms from previous matrons and how nursing uniforms have changed over time.
There is a cute display of dolls dressed in various nursing uniforms throughout the years.
It took us about an hour to finish touring the museum. The staff were very friendly and knowledgeable, and kept sharing stories about the exhibits. Kids above 6 years old would better enjoy and appreciate the museum, as some apparatus could look frightening to the younger toddlers.
Entry to this museum is free, and while you are in the area, you can also check out the other parts of the RPH Heritage Precinct, including the Kirkman House Nurses’ Quarters and the famous Moreton Bay Fig Tree that is 130 years old!
The closest car park is at the City of Perth Fire Station or Pier Street. You can also take public transport via the train as it is within close walking distance from Perth Underground Station, or catch the FREE RED CAT bus and stop at Royal Perth Hospital (stop 26).
Royal Perth Hospital Museum
10/14 Murray Street, Perth WA 6000
Opening hours:
Wednesday and Thursday
9am to 2pm.
rph.health.wa.gov.au/About-us/Museum
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Mum of two girls and working as a registered nurse. Originally from Singapore, I have spent the last 17 years in Perth where I raised my beautiful girls. After being a mum, I find passion in exploring new places and doing new activities with my kids. Besides mummy duties, I find joy in pretty dresses and books.
