1909 Subi East Play Space, Subiaco

A fresh new play space has opened in the heart of Subiaco, and 1909 Subi East Play Space is already proving to be a lovely spot for families to explore. Built within the former Princess Margaret Hospital precinct, this thoughtfully designed Playground is part of the wider Subi East redevelopment, bringing together play, public art, green space and a lovely nod to the area’s history.

The precinct is still evolving, with future apartments and restoration works continuing around the site, but the public open spaces are now open and ready to enjoy. It already feels like a welcoming family destination, with smooth pathways, open landscaped areas, seating and plenty for curious kids to spot along the way.

Parking is currently available nearby, including disabled parking, although this may become a little busier as the area continues to grow. Access around the Playground and surrounding public space is excellent, making it easy to visit with prams, scooters, wheelchairs or little ones who like to wander.

The Playground itself isn’t huge, but it packs a lot into a compact space. The main play structure is a modern rope and metal climbing frame that encourages children to climb, balance, crawl and explore. It feels best suited to confident toddlers, preschoolers and primary school-aged children who enjoy a bit of adventure.

Kids can make their way through rope node balls, a wooden slat climbing section and an elevated rope tunnel, with swinging elements adding extra movement and challenge.

There are also sensory play panels, including hexagon boards and an abacus-style board, which are great for younger children or those who prefer quieter, hands-on play.

A freestanding double swing set adds a classic Playground favourite, while inclusive seating helps make the space more comfortable for children and carers. The Playground is set on soft-fall flooring and has shade sails overhead, which is always a big plus for Perth families during the warmer months.

The biggest highlight of 1909 Subi East Play Space is the water play journey. Although it wasn’t running during our visit, it looks like it will be a real hit once switched on. Children can use a hand pump to send water flowing through channels and different levels, creating a little maze-like water course to follow, splash in and experiment with. It’s the kind of feature kids will want to return to again and again, especially on a warm day.

There’s lots to enjoy beyond the Playground too. The surrounding precinct has gardens, seating areas, engraved pathways and public artworks dotted throughout, making it a nice spot for a little wander after a play.

The bright Boiler House chimney stack sits right beside the Playground and is sure to catch the kids’ attention. Little ones will love spotting the colourful faces, and it even lights up at night.

Families can also see several retained heritage buildings, including Godfrey House, the Old Outpatients Building and the Boiler House. A memorial garden near the Old Outpatients Building and the “Goodnight PMH” poem displayed on-site offer a thoughtful reminder of Princess Margaret Hospital and the many WA families connected to it.

Another handy feature is the revitalised Thomas Street underpass, which has reopened to improve pedestrian access between Subiaco and West Perth. The official DevelopmentWA information notes that the 1909 Subi East precinct reopened to the public in May 2026 with Playground facilities, water features, walkways, roads and the underpass all accessible.

1909 Subi East Play Space is a lovely new addition to Perth’s inner suburbs. It may not be a huge destination Playground, but it is well designed, accessible and full of interesting details. With climbing, sensory play, water play, public art and a meaningful connection to the site’s history, it’s a great spot for a relaxed play and explore in Subiaco.

1909 Subi East Play Space

Address: Former Princess Margaret Hospital site, Roberts Road / Thomas Street precinct, Subiaco, WA

Opening hours: Public open space, open daily

Website: DevelopmentWA 1909 Subi East