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Ticket

Old Melbourne Gaol: Admission Tickets

Name: Old Melbourne Gaol: Admission Tickets
SKU: 565227-700048
Price: 38 AUD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.48 (73 reviews)

Melbourne, AU

100% of travellers recommend this

Very Good (73 reviews)

Self-guided

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Free Cancellation up to before the experience starts (local time)

Highlights

Explore Melbourne's oldest and most notorious prison
Discover the chilling history of infamous criminals
Experience the haunting atmosphere of executed souls
Engage with interactive displays for all ages
Receive a unique National Trust souvenir keepsake

General Admission Included
Self-guided access
Audio Guide App access
National Trust Souvenir included
Duration: 2-3 hours

At Melbourne’s Old Gaol, history and mystery intertwine within the walls of Australia's oldest prison, established in 1845. Adventurous souls will uncover chilling tales of notorious figures like bushranger Ned Kelly, whose legacy haunts the place. With a self-guided ticket, they can roam through three haunting levels, gaze upon the gallows where over 100 lost their lives, and marvel at Kelly's death mask. Engaging audio guides bring the past to life, while special displays reveal the untold stories of women and children who once inhabited this formidable space. Each visitor receives a unique National Trust souvenir to commemorate their journey into the depths of Melbourne’s criminal history. This is not just a visit; it’s an unforgettable plunge into the shadows of the past, where every corner whispers a story waiting to be discovered.

At a Glance

Free cancellation
2 hours
Instant Confirmation
Wheelchair accessible
Mobile voucher
Audio guide
Family friendly

Featured Reviews

Very Good (73 reviews)

Viator

anneyguk

Feb 24

This was a very entertaining and professional tour with great information into the history of this Gaol. The guide was excellent and very dramatic in the way he put across the stories related to this place. A very good evening out.

Viator

Paul W

Jan 23

What a step back in time - and such a piece of history right in the centre of Australia's coolest and most spectacular city. The tiny cells were a slap in the face of reality for criminals unable to swing a cat. And the gaol was in use until 1994 - at least the remand part with all the associated graffiti still there as though yesterday!! Most of the infamous underbelly criminals such as Carl Williams and Chopper Reed spent time there. The 'sergeant' was hilarious as we were all marched in to be inspected - she really played the part brilliantly and we suspected she may be a stand-up comedian in her other life. If she isn't she should be. Cells, gallows, exercise yard, landings, and all the death masks including that of a beardless Ned Kelly made it a unique experience...

Viator

Kylie W

Nov 20

We did the cluedo experience at Old Melbourne Gaol. Really fun, interesting way to see the gaol and learn about the history at the same time. We then went on the Watch house tour. The staff got into character and it was a good tour.

Viator

619je

Aug 20

Like most of Melbourne's early public buildings, the Old Melboune Gaol is made of bluestone. Bluestone was cheap and durable. The Gaol is still standing; construction began in 1839. Among the many people executed here was Ned Kelly, Australia's most infamous outlaw. It's a spooky place, life was hard for prisoaners in those days. The Gaol is one of Melboure's most popular attractions. There is a fee to enter.. By the way, you can do a self-guided tour or a group tour.

Viator

Rantinrover

May 20

This was a worthwhile visit in our view combining history with a bit of role play. Admission is $28 for adults, $23 for concessions (60 yrs +) with a variety of other options for families. With hindsight we should have taken our National Trust for Scotland membership cards with us - this would have permitted free entry under a reciprocal agreement with National Trust properties worldwide. We spent a couple of hours between the Watch House Tour and the Cell Block self guided tour. However you could easily spend more time if you want to read all the material in both these sites and add on the Court House (which was closed at the time of our visit) and another self guided walking tour which covers the surrounding area (a leaflet is provided). We visited in February 2020, prior to the Covid-19 lockdown. The Watch House Tour was led by a member of staff in character as a desk sergeant who had us all arrested and locked up for a variety of "crimes" all of which we were innocent of save for our bad acting. This was all done in a semi-serious, good humoured way to give a little bit of insight into the criminal system back at the time the jail operated. The jail is not a mock-up, it's the real thing and was still in use up until as recently as 1994 with its padded cell being the only padding evident on what must have been a quite sobering experience (quite literally in some cases) for those locked up. On a serious note, this part of the visit also gave information about the Russell Street bombing from 1986 which was something which we as visitors to the country had never heard of before. A young police woman was killed in the incident just across the street from the jail. Next door is the Cell Block which dates from the mid 1840s until 1924 when it closed, save for a brief spell when it was used again during the Second World War for soldiers who had gone "AWOL" and been caught. The entrance doubles as the ticket office and sells some souvenirs, snacks and drinks. Each cell on the ground floor has stories of inmates, the most well known of whom was Ned Kelly who was hanged at the prison in 1880, aged 25. Although Kelly has gone on to be immortolised in films and books there are many other characters stories which are worth learning about too as you walk between the cells. You are more likely to suffer from overload rather than run out of material. There are a further two levels to explore which amongst other things provide details on the background to prison hangings (the memorabila for which is on display) and the Second World War prison connection. The prison is apparently just as it was when in use although nowadays probably a lot fresher and less dangerous. As such the upper levels seem to be only accessible by metal stairs and therefore these may be out of bounds to less able bodied visitors.

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Included

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Admission Ticket
Other

Audio Guide

Excluded

Other

Transportation to/from attraction
Other

Hotel pickup & drop-off
Other

Food & Drink
Other

Add on tours are able to be purchased on site.

Meeting Point

377 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000 , Australia

End Point

377 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000 , Australia

What to expect

Old Melbourne Gaol

The Old Melbourne Gaol is Melbourne’s home of crime since 1845 and the city’s most feared destination. A place of more than 130 executions — including infamous bushranger’s Ned Kelly — visitors can learn about the site’s rich criminal history, experience what it was like for the men and women held there, and discover the stories that never left. With your ticket, explore the three levels of the original gaol, see the gallows where over 100 people met their fate, and discover Ned Kelly’s death mask. Learn about the Women and Children of the gaol with special displays tracing their history. General Admission to the Gaol includes self guided access to the Gaol, access to download the Audio Guide App and a National Trust Souvenir, which could consist of a tote bag, keyring or stuffed toy dependent on availability.

Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The Gaol offers partial wheelchair accessibility, but please note that some areas, such as stairs and upper levels, may limit access.
Wheelchair accessible

Provided by National Trust of Australia (Victoria)

What our experts say

Take the free City Circle Tram nearby.
Visit nearby Melbourne Central for lunch.
Check out the special displays for women.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring levels.
Plan to spend 2-3 hours for a full experience.

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More About this Experience

Introduction

Step into a world of intrigue and dark history with the Old Melbourne Gaol: Admission Tickets. This iconic landmark, dating back to 1845, was once the most feared prison in Australia, housing notorious figures like bushranger Ned Kelly and gangster Squizzy Taylor. A visit to the gaol is not just an outing; it's a journey through time where the echoes of the past resonate within its stone walls. With your admission ticket, you gain access to three levels of this historic site, including the chilling gallows where over a hundred executions took place. Discover the depth of the gaol's history through intimate displays that reveal the lives of women and children who were held within its confines. The experience is enriched with an audio guide that brings these stories to life, making it perfect for history buffs and casual visitors alike. Don't miss the chance to explore a place steeped in tales of crime and punishment, where every corner has a story to tell.

What to expect?

When you book your admission to the Old Melbourne Gaol, prepare for an immersive experience that delves deep into the city's criminal past. Expect to wander through the original gaol, exploring its three atmospheric levels and absorbing the haunting history that surrounds you. Your ticket grants you access to an audio guide app, allowing you to learn at your own pace, whether it’s hearing about the infamous gallows or the chilling details surrounding Ned Kelly’s death mask. There are also special exhibits focusing on the stories of women and children who experienced life behind bars, which adds a unique perspective to your visit. As a delightful keepsake, you’ll receive a National Trust souvenir, which varies from tote bags to keyrings, making your experience even more memorable. The gaol is conveniently located just a short walk from Melbourne Central Station, making it easy to include in your itinerary.

Who is this for?

The Old Melbourne Gaol: Admission Tickets are perfect for a wide range of visitors. History enthusiasts will revel in the rich narratives woven throughout the gaol, while those with a flair for the macabre will find the stories of executions and infamous prisoners absolutely captivating. Families with children will appreciate the accessibility options available, allowing everyone to partake in this educational adventure. Even if you’re not a history buff, this experience offers a unique glimpse into a pivotal part of Melbourne’s past that everyone can appreciate. The self-guided nature of the tour means it can fit into anyone's schedule, whether you are a solo traveler, a couple seeking a unique date idea, or a family looking for an engaging outing. It's an experience that invites curiosity and wonder, making it an enriching stop for all visitors to Melbourne.

Why book this?

Booking a visit to the Old Melbourne Gaol is not just about stepping into a historic building; it’s about immersing yourself in a captivating narrative that shaped the city. This experience differentiates itself with its combination of rich storytelling, interactive displays, and the chilling ambiance of an actual prison. Each ticket is an invitation to explore the lives of those who walked these halls, to stand where history was made, and to absorb the stories that linger long after the last person has left. The accessibility of the site ensures that everyone can engage with its history, while the audio guide app allows for an enriched learning experience tailored to individual preferences. Plus, the inclusion of a National Trust souvenir adds a personal touch to a day filled with exploration. The Old Melbourne Gaol isn’t just a visit; it’s a memorable encounter that deepens your appreciation of Melbourne's unique heritage.

Good to know

Before you embark on your journey into the depths of history at the Old Melbourne Gaol, here are some essential details to keep in mind. The gaol is easily accessible via public transport, located just a short walk from Melbourne Central Station or reachable by the free City Circle Tram. Visitors of all fitness levels can enjoy the site, though it’s important to note that some areas may have limited wheelchair access due to stairs and upper levels. Families traveling with infants or small children can bring strollers for convenience. While your ticket covers admission and the audio guide, food and drink options are not included, so be sure to plan accordingly. Make the most of your visit by allowing two to three hours to fully explore the gaol and absorb its haunting tales. With these tips in mind, you are set for an unforgettable experience at one of Melbourne’s most historic locations.

Reviews

Visitors to the Old Melbourne Gaol rave about their immersive experiences, highlighting the depth of history and the engaging narratives presented throughout the tour. Many appreciate the self-guided format, which allows them to explore at their own pace, making it an ideal outing for families and solo travelers alike. The audio guide is frequently praised for its captivating storytelling, enhancing the overall experience by bringing the gaol's past to life. Guests often mention the chilling atmosphere, especially when standing in the execution area, which adds a layer of authenticity to their visit. The opportunity to learn about the lesser-known stories of women and children held in the gaol has also resonated well with visitors, offering a more rounded view of the history. Overall, the Old Melbourne Gaol is celebrated as a must-visit attraction for anyone seeking to uncover Melbourne's intriguing past.