West Terrace Cemetery
Explore over 185 years of South Australian history at West Terrace Cemetery, from prominent citizens to unsolved mysteries.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Spooky and immersive history
West Terrace Cemetery
Best Time
Spooky and immersive history
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore over 185 years of South Australian history at West Terrace Cemetery, from prominent citizens to unsolved mysteries.
"A fun experience filled with historical facts and loads of entertainment, a definite must experience!"
Book 'Tragic Tales' in advance
These popular night tours sell out quickly! Book your tickets online to avoid disappointment. :ticket:
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ground. Sturdy footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tragic Tales Night Tour
Various locations within the cemetery
Experience historical tales and unsolved mysteries brought to life by actors after dark.
+3Somerton Man's Burial Site
Original burial location (exact spot debated)
Explore the area where the enigmatic Somerton Man was first laid to rest, a site of enduring mystery.
Oldest Military Cemetery in Australia
Dedicated military section
Discover the poignant history of Australia's oldest dedicated military cemetery, honoring fallen soldiers.
Prominent Citizen Graves
Various sections
See the final resting places of influential figures who shaped South Australia's early history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book a Guided Tour for Deeper Insights
+2Respectful Exploration is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book 'Tragic Tales' in advance
These popular night tours sell out quickly! Book your tickets online to avoid disappointment. :ticket:
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ground. Sturdy footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
Download a map or guide
Self-guided walk leaflets are available, or use an offline map app for navigation. :iphone:
Respect the quiet atmosphere
Remember this is a place of remembrance. Keep noise levels down and be considerate of others. :pray:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book 'Tragic Tales' in advance
These popular night tours sell out quickly! Book your tickets online to avoid disappointment. :ticket:
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven ground. Sturdy footwear is a must! :athletic_shoe:
Download a map or guide
Self-guided walk leaflets are available, or use an offline map app for navigation. :iphone:
Respect the quiet atmosphere
Remember this is a place of remembrance. Keep noise levels down and be considerate of others. :pray:
Check for special events
The cemetery sometimes hosts historical reenactments or other community events. :calendar:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the 'Tragic Tales' tour for its engaging historical narratives and theatrical performances, making it a fun and educational night out. Self-guided walks are also appreciated for their historical insights, though some find the signage and plaque accessibility challenging. The cemetery's atmosphere is generally respected, though some desire more detailed information for independent exploration.
"Tragic Tales tour at West Terrace Cemetery Adelaide was a fun experience. If you are a history buff and like a night time walk through a cemetery, then this is for you. Well performed historical tales were told, as we walked with our lanterns. Several characters would appear, is if out of nowhere, and tell us their story arriving and living in Adelaide as free settlers. We loved it!"
Sue
"Much prefer this new venue down at Lizzy Quay for the orientation and access, right next to the Bus Port. Anyone can get in to the garden grounds for nix, where you can sit on the grass, on some tall stools, in the sun or with some shade. There's a bar that is priced at Perth's average (locals will know what I mean, visitors might find the prices a little steeper than they're used to). There are also food vendors, quite good ones, although I am not sure my three pieces of hard plastic in my dish can qualify as good. Put that aside (with the refund duly given) the flavour was lovely and the price reasonable."
Sophie Nguyen
"Great experience. My daughter and really enjoyed our tour, filled with historical facts and loads of entertainment. A definite must experience."
Rebekah kritikos
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
West Terrace Cemetery is conveniently located in Adelaide's CBD. You can reach it by car, with parking available nearby. It's also accessible via public transport, with bus stops located on West Terrace itself. +1
Yes, Adelaide Metro buses frequently service West Terrace, making it easily accessible. Check the Adelaide Metro website for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.
There are several parking options around the cemetery, including street parking and nearby car parks. Be mindful of parking restrictions and fees.
The cemetery is a prominent landmark on West Terrace. Look for the distinctive gates and grounds. Navigation markers are also present to guide visitors.
Absolutely! It's a pleasant walk from many parts of the Adelaide CBD, offering a chance to see the city's parklands.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The grounds of West Terrace Cemetery are generally free to enter for self-guided exploration. However, special guided tours like 'Tragic Tales' require paid tickets.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book tickets for the 'Tragic Tales' night tour in advance, as they can sell out.
The cemetery grounds are typically open during daylight hours for self-guided visits. Specific hours for guided tours will vary.
Yes, you can explore the cemetery independently using free guide leaflets available near the entrance.
While the grounds are generally accessible, it's always best to check for any specific event closures or restricted access times.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the graves of prominent citizens, the oldest military cemetery in Australia, and the site associated with the Somerton Man mystery. +1
Yes, 'Adelaide Cemetery Tours' offers popular 'Tragic Tales' night tours that bring history to life with actors.
The 'Tragic Tales' tour is noted as being suitable for families, offering an engaging way to learn history.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site.
The Somerton Man, an unsolved mystery, was originally buried here. While his remains were exhumed, the site remains a point of interest.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for the intricate headstones, the older sections with mature trees, and the military memorial for atmospheric shots. The 'Tragic Tales' tour also offers unique nighttime photo opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in cemeteries and public spaces. It's best to check with local authorities or cemetery management before flying a drone.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful shadows and highlight the textures of the headstones. Night tours offer a dramatic, moody ambiance.
While generally allowed, be mindful of the solemnity of the location. Avoid intrusive photography of private memorials or during services.
It's best to ask the actors or tour guide for permission before taking close-up photos of them during the performance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+2During the day, encourage kids to look for interesting dates, names, or symbols on the headstones. The vast parkland setting also offers space for a quiet picnic. Remember to emphasize respectful behavior, explaining that it's a place where people are remembered.
👻 True Crime & Mystery Enthusiasts
The 'Tragic Tales' tour also delves into historical scandals and intriguing stories, offering a glimpse into the darker side of Adelaide's past. This makes the cemetery a compelling location for anyone interested in local lore and historical enigmas.
🚶 History Buffs & Genealogy Researchers
Consider joining a guided tour for in-depth historical context, or utilize the self-guided leaflets to focus on specific areas of interest. For genealogy researchers, the cemetery records can provide crucial links to family history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Tragic Tales' Experience
+2This tour is highly recommended for history buffs and those who enjoy a bit of intrigue. It provides a deeper understanding of the lives and challenges faced by those who shaped Adelaide. The theatrical element makes the historical facts more memorable and engaging, turning a visit to a cemetery into an entertaining and educational evening. It's noted as being suitable for families, offering a different perspective on local history.
Booking in advance is crucial as these popular tours tend to sell out. The experience is designed to be respectful yet captivating, offering a glimpse into the 'lies, secrets, and sordid scandals' of South Australia's past.
Unraveling the Somerton Man Mystery
While the Somerton Man's remains were exhumed for further investigation and later reburied elsewhere, the original burial location within West Terrace Cemetery remains a significant point of interest. Visitors can explore the area, contemplating the unanswered questions surrounding his identity and cause of death. The cemetery's historical context adds to the intrigue, making it a poignant stop for those drawn to unsolved cases.
Discussions on platforms like Reddit highlight the ongoing interest in finding definitive answers about the Somerton Man and his resting place. While the exact spot may be debated or lost to time, the cemetery serves as a tangible link to this captivating historical puzzle.
A Glimpse into Adelaide's Early History
The cemetery also boasts the distinction of being home to Australia's oldest dedicated military cemetery. Established to honor fallen soldiers, this section is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made throughout various conflicts. The League of Loyal Women's campaign in the early 20th century for a fitting memorial site underscores the importance of this area in commemorating military service.
For those interested in a self-guided exploration, free guide leaflets are available near the entrance, providing insights into notable graves and historical significance. This allows visitors to delve into the past at their own pace, uncovering the rich tapestry of Adelaide's history etched in stone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit