Samson House in Fremantle is a fascinating place to visit with kids if you love history, beautiful old homes and lush gardens. Built in 1888 for prominent local figure Michael Samson, this grand home offers a rare glimpse into the lives of an influential Fremantle family across several generations. Today, the property is cared for by the National Trust and open for guided tours on selected days, making it a lovely, low-key family outing close to the heart of Fremantle.
From the outside, Samson House is all about stately architecture and a sense of old-world grandeur. Inside, families can wander through a series of rooms preserved much as they would have been when the Samson family lived here. Chandeliers, ornate furnishings and detailed woodwork all help bring the late 19th and early 20th centuries to life.
Kids who enjoy “how people used to live” will love spotting the differences between old and modern kitchens, bathrooms and living spaces, and imagining what it would have been like to grow up here.
The collections and displays tell stories of three generations of the Samson family, including Mayor of Fremantle Sir Frederick “Fred” Samson and his sister Rita.
Guided tours are led by knowledgeable volunteers who share anecdotes about the family’s role in Fremantle’s history, from politics and community life to their passion for gardening, art, music, photography and film. Having a guide really helps keep children engaged, as they can ask questions and hear age-appropriate stories rather than just reading signs.
For families, one of the highlights is the chance to explore the grounds. The gardens are a beautiful spot for kids to stretch their legs after the tour, with flower beds, lawned areas and the historic stables building, which has been carefully conserved and now provides a small space for community use.
While this isn’t a Playground-style venue, it’s a peaceful outdoor space where children can wander, spot plants and enjoy being in a different kind of “backyard” to what they might be used to at home.
Samson House is open for pre-booked guided tours run by volunteers on the first Sunday and third Wednesday of each month, with 30-minute sessions offered between 10.30am and 12.30pm. Bookings are essential, and group and education visits can also be arranged, including curriculum-linked programs for school groups during the week. This means you can plan your visit as part of a bigger Fremantle day out – perhaps combining Samson House with the Fremantle Arts Centre, Walyalup Koort play space, the Maritime Museum or the Shipwreck Museum.
It’s worth noting that, because Samson House is a heritage building, accessibility is limited. Large prams, wheelchairs and bulky bags can’t be taken through the rooms, and the National Trust asks visitors to get in touch ahead of time to discuss any accessibility needs. If you have a baby or toddler, a baby carrier may be easier than a large pram for the indoor part of your visit.
For families seeking something a little different from the usual Playground or cafe outing, Samson House is a wonderful way to introduce children to local history in a tangible, hands-on way. With its mix of historic interiors, engaging stories and pretty gardens, it makes a charming stop on your next Fremantle adventure.
Samson House
Address: 61 Ellen Street, Fremantle WA 6160
Opening hours:
Pre-booked guided tours on the first Sunday and third Wednesday of each month, with 30-minute sessions between 10.30am and 12.30pm (bookings essential; closed Christmas Day and occasionally over peak holiday periods – check ahead).
Official website: https://www.ntwa.com.au/places-to-visit/samson-house/
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Jennie McNichol is on a mission to prove there is always something fun to do in Perth. After 11 years in London working in the television industry for the BBC, Jennie moved to Perth in 2010 and founded Buggybuddys to silence the “nothing to do” crowd. Fifteen years later, it is the city’s number one guide for families, packed with daily inspiration and a huge focus on free local activities.
As a mum of two daughters, Jennie has evolved the site right alongside her own family—growing from a toddler-focused resource into a guide that supports parents through every stage, from the early years through to the teens. A passionate advocate for the WA lifestyle, Jennie loves helping families discover the best playgrounds, hidden gems, and budget-friendly days out in the most family-friendly city in the world.
