Why King William Street is significant

King William Street is a wide boulevard that runs through the centre of Adelaide.

The leafy green trees that sway along the edges of the street contrast to the large skyscrapers of the city. It is a significant street within Adelaide, with a long history, and home to an array of prominent public buildings.

The Street was named after King William IV, by the Street Naming Committee in 1837. It is a large continuous stretch of road, beginning in the inner south side of Adelaide and ending in the North.

In some sections the street holds the name King William Road. The names of the streets that crossed over King William Street were quickly changed as no one was allowed to ‘cross the path of a monarch.’

Trams have been rolling along the street for most of its history. Before the 1960s, King William Street’s tram lines were the major backbone of the network.

What you can do at King William Street?

• Beehive Corner

  The Beehive Corner refers to the corner and building on the north-eastern corner of King William Street and Rundle Street. It is famous throughout Adelaide, dating back to 1849.  Here two drapers named their corner store ‘The Beehive.’ The name referring to symbolise the busy trading centre, hence the reference to bees. They decorated the shop with a beehive like a theme, in gold leaf and honey orange colour.

• Elder Park

  Enjoy the bushland and botanical gardens of Elder Park. Located along the King William Street as well as the Karrawirra Parri River. Whether you choose to visit Elder Park for its flora and fauna, its bike and walking paths, or simply to lounge in the grass to soak up the sun, you will certainly not be disappointed.

• St. Peter’s Cathedral

  Adelaide’s most popular cathedral, St Peter’s Cathedral is a significant historic landmark along the street of King William. Adelaide has the nickname city of churches and St. Peter’s is by far the king of them all. This Anglican church’s architecture is a European style. Admire it’s colourful glass stain windows and narrow roof peaks jutting above the clouds. Visit this stunning structure and join one of the free tours every Sunday and Wednesday.

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.