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Adelaide Gaol: A Journey into South Australia's Grim Past

Explore South Australia's oldest prison: a chilling journey through history, executions, and paranormal mysteries at the infamous Adelaide Gaol.

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Step inside Adelaide Gaol, one of South Australia's oldest public buildings, and journey into a chilling past. Operating from 1841 to 1988, the Gaol housed approximately 300,000 prisoners, including men, women, and children, and witnessed 45 executions. Today, it stands as a museum and tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who once resided within its walls.

A brief summary to Adelaide Gaol

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Bring a jacket, as the Gaol can be cold and drafty, especially in the evenings.
  • Book your tour in advance, especially if you're interested in a ghost tour or a specific guided tour.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the Gaol thoroughly.
  • Check the Adelaide Gaol website for special events, exhibitions, and temporary access changes due to the construction of the new Women's and Children's Hospital.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Adelaide Gaol is located at 18 Gaol Road, Adelaide. Due to construction of the new Women's and Children's Hospital, Gaol Road is closed. Access is via Bonython Park, entering from Port Road. Follow the signs to the Gaol. Free parking is available on-site.

  • Public Transport

    Adelaide Gaol is accessible by bus and tram. Numerous bus services stop at Stop 2 Port Rd, a short 5-10 minute walk to the Gaol. Tram stops are located on Port Rd, Thebarton and at the corner of North Terrace and West Terrace. From the city center, take a tram towards the Entertainment Centre or Hindmarsh and alight at the Thebarton stop. Walk north along Port Road, then turn left into Bonython Park to reach the Gaol. A single trip Metrocard fare is $4.55 during peak hours and $2.60 during off-peak. A day trip ticket costs $12.50.

  • Walking

    From the Adelaide city center, head west along North Terrace. Turn left onto West Terrace and continue until you reach Port Road. Turn right onto Port Road and walk for approximately 15 minutes. Turn left into Bonython Park and follow the signs to Adelaide Gaol. The walk is approximately 3 km and should take around 40 minutes.

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Discover more about Adelaide Gaol

Adelaide Gaol, a relic of South Australia's colonial era, stands as a stark reminder of the state's grim past. Operating as a prison from 1841 to 1988, it housed approximately 300,000 prisoners, ranging from petty criminals to murderers. The Gaol was also home to the mentally ill, highlighting the harsh realities of the 19th and 20th centuries. The Gaol's history is filled with tales of hardship, despair, and, for some, a final reckoning. Forty-five individuals were executed within its walls, their bodies buried in unmarked graves on the grounds. Among them was Elizabeth Woolcock, the only woman ever executed in South Australia. The gallows, both portable and permanent, stand as chilling testaments to this dark chapter. Today, Adelaide Gaol is a museum and tourist attraction, offering visitors a unique and often unsettling experience. Explore the cell blocks, yards, and the chilling hanging tower, each echoing with stories of the past. Interactive exhibits allow you to try on handcuffs and leg irons, offering a visceral connection to the lives of former inmates. Beyond its historical significance, Adelaide Gaol is also known for its paranormal activity. Ghost tours are a popular way to experience the Gaol after dark, with many visitors reporting unexplained phenomena. Whether you're a history buff, a paranormal enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique and thought-provoking experience, Adelaide Gaol offers a glimpse into a side of South Australia that is both captivating and disturbing.

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