The Round House
WA's oldest public building, a former prison offering historical insights and panoramic views, with a daily cannon firing spectacle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cannon firing & time ball
The Round House
Best Time
Cannon firing & time ball
Highlights
Must-see attractions
WA's oldest public building, a former prison offering historical insights and panoramic views, with a daily cannon firing spectacle.
"A fascinating glimpse into WA's colonial past with stunning views and a daily cannon firing spectacle!"
🎯 Donation Appreciated
Entry is free, but donations are vital for maintaining this historic site. :heart:
🗣️ Chat with Volunteers
Volunteers are knowledgeable and friendly, eager to share stories about the building's past. :speech_balloon:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Historic Prison Cells
Inside The Round House
Step back in time and explore the original cells of this 1831 former prison.
Cannon Firing & Time Ball
Exterior grounds
Witness the daily 1:00 PM cannon firing and time ball drop – a historical spectacle.
Panoramic Fremantle Views
Rooftop
Enjoy sweeping views of Fremantle, the Indian Ocean, and the harbor.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Glimpse into History
Don't Miss the Daily Spectacle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Donation Appreciated
Entry is free, but donations are vital for maintaining this historic site. :heart:
🗣️ Chat with Volunteers
Volunteers are knowledgeable and friendly, eager to share stories about the building's past. :speech_balloon:
📸 Great Photo Spot
The views from the top are stunning, perfect for capturing Fremantle's coastline. :camerawithflash:
⏱️ Time Your Visit
Aim for 1 PM to catch the cannon firing and time ball drop. :stopwatch:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Donation Appreciated
Entry is free, but donations are vital for maintaining this historic site. :heart:
🗣️ Chat with Volunteers
Volunteers are knowledgeable and friendly, eager to share stories about the building's past. :speech_balloon:
📸 Great Photo Spot
The views from the top are stunning, perfect for capturing Fremantle's coastline. :camerawithflash:
⏱️ Time Your Visit
Aim for 1 PM to catch the cannon firing and time ball drop. :stopwatch:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Round House for its historical significance as WA's oldest public building and former prison. The daily 1:00 PM cannon firing and time ball drop are highlighted as must-see events, and the panoramic views from the rooftop are a major draw. The friendly and informative volunteers significantly enhance the visitor experience.
"This is the oldest public building in WA, built in 1830 and was originally a goal. It is free to enter but a donation is expected and they use it to maintain the building. Inside there are volunteers who will answer any questions and were helpful and friendly. You can even take that tacky photo with your head in stocks. At 1.00pm they fire the cannon and lower the time ball so worth visiting around that time. It doesn’t take long when visiting, but definitely add to your list when visiting Fremantle."
Casandra TP
"An iconic bit of Fremantle history..
Built in 1830, it is the oldest building in Fremantle and was originally used as a prison to house convicts. The structure is a unique, circular building built from the abundance of sandstone in the Perth and Fremantle region. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Western Australia's early colonial history.
Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Fremantle, the Indian Ocean, and the harbor from the site, making it a great spot for photos. The Roundhouse is also home to an informative museum, with exhibits about the building's history and the role it played in the region's development.
The site is free to enter, and it's located just a short walk from Fremantle’s city center, making it easy to combine with other local attractions. Every day at 1:00 PM, the cannon is fired, providing an interesting spectacle for visitors.
It was a bit windy when I was there but that’s Fremantle on a good day. WA..(Windy Always)"
Joel Graham
"Absolutely delightful place to visit. There are lots of facts about navigation, and I even got yo fire the cannon. Made my day🤩"
Carol Fryer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Round House is easily accessible on foot from Fremantle's city center, just a short walk from the harbor and other attractions. If driving, there is parking available nearby. Public transport options also serve the Fremantle area.
While the main areas are accessible, some parts of the historic building may present challenges for wheelchairs due to its age and structure. It's advisable to check with the site directly for specific accessibility details.
You can take a train from Perth CBD to Fremantle Station, which is a short walk from The Round House. Alternatively, driving is an option, with parking available in the vicinity.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to The Round House is free, however, donations are gratefully accepted and are used for the building's maintenance and preservation.
The Round House is typically open daily, but it's always a good idea to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date opening hours before your visit.
No, tickets are not required as entry is by donation. You can simply visit during opening hours.
The cannon is fired daily at 1:00 PM, so plan your visit to be there around that time to witness this historical event.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic prison cells, learn about Western Australia's colonial past from informative exhibits, enjoy panoramic views from the rooftop, and witness the daily cannon firing at 1:00 PM.
While there aren't formal guided tours, knowledgeable volunteers are usually present to answer questions and share insights about the building's history.
Yes, photography is generally permitted, especially to capture the stunning views of Fremantle and the harbor from the rooftop.
Yes, The Round House houses an informative museum with exhibits detailing its history and its role in the region's development.
The time ball was historically used to help ships in the harbor accurately set their chronometers, crucial for navigation. Its daily drop is a reenactment of this maritime tradition.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Round House itself does not typically have food or dining facilities. However, it is located very close to Fremantle's city center, which offers a wide array of cafes, restaurants, and pubs.
Picnicking is generally not encouraged inside historic buildings. However, there are many public spaces and parks in Fremantle where you can enjoy your own food and drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
The rooftop offers the most spectacular panoramic views of Fremantle, the harbor, and the Indian Ocean. The exterior of the unique circular building also makes for interesting shots.
Yes, the cannon firing at 1:00 PM is a dynamic event that makes for exciting photographs. Be prepared for a bit of smoke and action.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require prior permission. Always respect any posted signage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that while the site is generally safe, supervision is key, especially on the rooftop. The donation-based entry makes it an affordable outing. Consider combining your visit with a walk along the nearby harbor or a visit to the Maritime Museum for a fuller family day out.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
Take your time to absorb the details within the cells and learn about the building's construction and purpose. The daily cannon firing adds an interactive historical element that brings the past to life. Don't miss the chance to chat with the volunteers; their personal stories can be incredibly illuminating.
📸 Photographers
Don't miss the opportunity to capture the daily 1:00 PM cannon firing, which offers a dramatic and action-filled subject. Experiment with different angles and times of day to make the most of the light and capture the essence of this historic site and its surroundings.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The Round House's History
Today, The Round House is a protected heritage site, meticulously maintained and open to the public. The entry by donation model ensures its preservation for future generations, allowing visitors to connect with this significant piece of Western Australian heritage. The presence of dedicated volunteers further enriches the experience, providing personal anecdotes and historical context that bring the building's stories to life.
Exploring the interior reveals the stark simplicity of the prison cells, while the exterior offers a different perspective on its historical function. The building's strategic location also provides breathtaking panoramic views, making it a place where history meets natural beauty.
Experiencing the Daily Spectacle
Witnessing this tradition is a captivating experience, offering a tangible link to the past. The sound of the cannon reverberates, and the lowering of the time ball provides a visual cue to a bygone era. It's a moment that draws visitors together, creating a shared historical experience.
Pro-tip: Arrive a little before 1:00 PM to secure a good viewing spot and soak in the atmosphere. The volunteers often provide context just before the event, adding to the anticipation.
Photography Opportunities at The Round House
The unique circular architecture of The Round House itself provides interesting angles and compositions. Whether you're focusing on the weathered sandstone walls, the historic windows, or the overall structure, there's a distinct visual appeal. The daily cannon firing at 1:00 PM also presents a dynamic subject, perfect for capturing action shots and the dramatic plume of smoke.
Remember to: Visit during different times of the day to experience varying light conditions, which can dramatically alter the mood and appearance of your photographs. Early mornings and late afternoons often provide softer, more flattering light for landscape shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit