Melbourne Historical Walking Tour: Crime, Gangsters & Lolly Shops
Melbourne, AU
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Explore Melbourne's underworld c.1870's to 1930's
- Learn about madams who stood their ground against gangsters
- Stop outside buildings which were once brothels and sly grog shops
- Hear stories of shootings, bombings, and robberies
- Gin distillery in a former house of ill repute
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Duration 2 hours
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Expert Guide
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Tour booklet included
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Wheelchair accessible
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Suitable for all fitness levels
Discover the dark and intriguing history of Melbourne on this captivating historical walking tour. Step back in time to the 1870s-1930s and delve into the underground world of 'Little Lon', the city's notorious slum district run mostly by women. Join writer and historian, Michael Shelford, as he takes you on a journey through the era of gangsters and crime syndicates. Outside once-infamous brothels and sly grog shops, hear the stories of shootings, bombings, robberies, and the illegal trades of opium and cocaine. Learn about the fearless madams who stood their ground against notorious gangsters like Squizzy Taylor and an all-female crime syndicate known as 'The Combine'. The tour concludes at the intersection of Lonsdale Street and Madame Brussels Lane, leaving you captivated by Melbourne's hidden past. Don't miss out on this immersive and thrilling experience.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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2 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Wheelchair accessible
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Mobile voucher
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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Adults only
Featured Reviews
Explore Melbourne's dark history of crime and gangsters on a captivating walking tour through its infamous streets.
Included
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A tour booklet featuring photos of the characters discussed along the way.
Excluded
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Please bring along your own food and drinks.
Meeting Point
We meet at the Coopers Inn Hotel, 282 Exhibition St, Melbourne CBD. The Coopers has great food, drink, and a friendly Australian pub atmosphere.
282 Exhibition St, Melbourne VIC 3000 , Australia
End Point
The tour finishes at the corner of Lonsdale Street and Madame Brussels Lane.
36 Lonsdale St, Melbourne VIC 3000 , Australia
What to expect
Little Lon Distilling Co.
Little Lon Distilling Co is a Gin Distillery which operates from Melbourne CBD's only surviving single story cottage. It also happens to be a former house of ill repute. You will hear stories of the cottage's former inhabitants, sourced from original police files.
10 minutes
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
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Wheelchair accessible -
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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Service animals allowed
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
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All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Children must be accompanied by an adult
What our experts say
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Try the Coopers Inn for lunch! -
Visit Little Lon Distilling Co. nearby.
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Bring a camera for great photo ops.
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
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Check public transport options ahead.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Discover the intriguing and hidden history of Melbourne on the Melbourne Historical Walking Tour: Crime, Gangsters & Lolly Shops. This immersive tour takes you back in time to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when the city's downtown district, known as 'Little Lon', was a bustling hub of crime, gangsters, and secret underground activities. Led by renowned writer and historian, Michael Shelford, this tour offers a unique glimpse into Melbourne's underworld during this era.What to expect?
During this 120-minute walking tour, you can expect to explore the dark and mysterious side of Melbourne's past. Hear captivating stories of infamous gangsters like Squizzy Taylor, who ruled the streets with fear, and get an insight into the fierce battles for supremacy among the city's criminal underworld. Visit former brothels and sly grog shops, hidden hotspots where illegal activities thrived. Learn about the strong and determined women who ran these establishments and even established their own all-female crime syndicate known as 'The Combine'.Who is this for?
This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, curious travelers, and anyone interested in exploring the hidden stories behind a city's façade. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this experience will reveal a side of Melbourne that is often overlooked. Don't worry if you're not well-versed in the city's history; Michael Shelford's engaging storytelling will captivate and entertain audiences of all levels of knowledge.Why book this?
Step into the shoes of a 1920s detective and immerse yourself in the intriguing stories and legends that have shaped Melbourne's history. This tour offers a unique perspective on the city's past, allowing you to walk the streets where notorious criminals once roamed and experience Melbourne's darker side firsthand. Led by an expert guide, you'll gain deep insights into the city's history, its legendary gangsters, and the powerful women who defied societal norms. This walking tour is not just an informative experience, but a thrilling journey through time.Good to know
The tour begins at the charming Coopers Inn Hotel, where you can enjoy great food and drinks before embarking on your historical adventure. Along the way, you'll pass by the Little Lon Distilling Co, a gin distillery housed in a former brothel. Delve into the world of these mysterious former inhabitants through original police files. The tour concludes at the corner of Lonsdale Street and Madame Brussels Lane, leaving you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for Melbourne's captivating past.Reviews
Participants on the Melbourne Historical Walking Tour have praised the tour for its captivating storytelling and engaging presentation of Melbourne's hidden history. Travelers have described it as a unique and eye-opening experience that unveils a side of the city they never knew existed. They were impressed by Michael Shelford's extensive knowledge and ability to bring the stories to life, making the tour both educational and entertaining. If you're looking for a memorable and immersive exploration of Melbourne's fascinating past, this tour comes highly recommended.
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