#4 Culture – arts, history and heritage
Bayswater is full of creatives including musicians, painters, photographers, writers and sculptors, with many of them working professionally on a national and international level. This artistic vibe has infused the town centre, adding to the rich culture of the area.
Located on the Swan River, Bayswater’s history goes back tens of thousands of years as an important site for nourishment and shelter for Whadjuk people. In the early days of colonial settlement, the area was used for agriculture and dairies. Later, soldiers and their families established themselves in the suburb after the First and Second World Wars.
Bayswater’s heritage is visible throughout the town centre, particularly on Murray and Veitch Streets, and in heritage venues including King Somm Bar and King William Antiques. There is also a local museum and the headquarters of the Bayswater Historical Society in the heritage-listed Halliday House Heritage Centre (an early colonial homestead), just a short trip across Guildford Road.
While in the neighbourhood, there's no better place to immerse yourself in the local art scene than Laneway Art Space – an art school, gallery and event space on the laneway off Whatley Crescent. It’s a unique experience for artists and art lovers alike; and the laneway mural by internationally renowned Bayswater artist Graeme Miles Richards truly brings the space to life.