Wander the halls of the Old Melbourne Gaol, City Watch House and Gallows to get a sense of what life was like for the prisoners who lived and died here. Built in the mid-1800’s, the prison acted as a home to some of Australia’s most dangerous and infamous criminals including famous bushranger, Ned Kelly until 1929.
Explore a dark piece of Australia's history with a self-guided tour of the prison. Step inside the small, eery cells and get "arrested and processed" by a Charge Sergeant (tour guide) on an interactive City Watch House experience included in all general admission tickets. Old Melbourne Gaol is a fascinating reminder of Australia's penal history and a must visit on your next visit to Melbourne.
Note
- Due to COVID capacity restrictions apply
Inclusions
- Entry into the Old Melbourne Gaol for a self guided tour
- Guided access to The City Watch House
- Access to the Old Magistrates Court (during Victorian school holidays only)
- Audio tour
Exclusions
- Transfers to and from accommodation
- Special school holiday events & activities
Highlights
- Get a first-hand experience of what it was like for people who lived and died at the Gaol between 1842 and 1929
- Enjoy self guided access to the Old Melbourne Gaol & guided access to the City Watch House
- Head into the City Watch House and experience what it is like to be arrested
- Discover the infamous Ned Kelly's death mask, revolver, body bag & noose
- Come across the spine tingling original Gaol gallows
- Encounter the Old Melbourne Gaol collection which is home to over 300 items including; handcuffs, leg-irons, cell door padlocks, lashing collars, leather belts & contraband weapons
Operating Hours
- 10am-6pm Wednesday-Sunday
- Last entry is at 4:15pm
- Closed Monday and Tuesday
- Closed Christmas Day and Good Friday
Duration
Location
- 377 Russell Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Additional Information
- Tickets are valid for 6 months from date of purchase
- Additional child tickets are only valid when purchased in conjunction with a family ticket
- Access to the Watch House runs on a timetable throughout the day, these times vary day to day and are not published. The Gaol component of the tour is self guided
- Tickets are strictly non-refundable and non-transferable
- Parental discretion is advised as the Gaol contains historic material that may be unsuitable for young children
Booking Information
- Confirmation in the form of a tour voucher will be received at time of booking
- Upon completion of purchase, please print the voucher and present on day of the experience
- Mobile Vouchers are accepted! - Vouchers can also be presented on your mobile device for this attraction
- For your information, complete Tour Operator Information including contact details is included on your tour voucher
- Availability was accurate at the time of booking however, is subject to change due to circumstances out of our control
- We strongly suggest reconfirming your booking with the tour operator within 24 hours of making your booking and prior to making other travel arrangements
