Old Melbourne Gaol
Step back in time at the Old Melbourne Gaol, a historic prison turned museum, offering chilling tales of notorious inmates and executions.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, spooky atmosphere
Old Melbourne Gaol
Best Time
Fewer crowds, spooky atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the Old Melbourne Gaol, a historic prison turned museum, offering chilling tales of notorious inmates and executions.
"An unforgettable step back in time — eerie, educational, and deeply fascinating."
Book Night Tours Early
Popular night tours like the Hangman's tour sell out fast! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot. :ticket:
Choose Your Tour
Day tours are self-guided. Night tours (Hangman, Ghost) are guided and immersive. Pentridge is an alternative for a grittier feel. :compass:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ned Kelly's Cell
Prisoner Cells
See where Australia's most infamous outlaw, Ned Kelly, was held before his execution. A chilling glimpse into a legendary past.

The Gallows
Execution Site
Stand beneath the original gallows where 133 people met their end. A somber reminder of the gaol's grim history.

Cell 17
Prisoner Cells
Explore the notorious Cell 17, rumored to be one of the most haunted spots in the gaol, with tales of paranormal activity.

City Watch House
Watch House Area
Experience what it was like to be locked up in the adjacent City Watch House. An interactive and eye-opening exhibit.
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Night Tours
Choose Your Tour Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Night Tours Early
Popular night tours like the Hangman's tour sell out fast! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot. :ticket:
Choose Your Tour
Day tours are self-guided. Night tours (Hangman, Ghost) are guided and immersive. Pentridge is an alternative for a grittier feel. :compass:
Embrace the Dark
Night tours are conducted in complete darkness, enhancing the eerie and historical atmosphere. :flashlight:
Ned Kelly Focus
The Ned Kelly tour is highly recommended for its informative and witty guide, bringing history to life. :star:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Night Tours Early
Popular night tours like the Hangman's tour sell out fast! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot. :ticket:
Choose Your Tour
Day tours are self-guided. Night tours (Hangman, Ghost) are guided and immersive. Pentridge is an alternative for a grittier feel. :compass:
Embrace the Dark
Night tours are conducted in complete darkness, enhancing the eerie and historical atmosphere. :flashlight:
Ned Kelly Focus
The Ned Kelly tour is highly recommended for its informative and witty guide, bringing history to life. :star:
Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the multi-level gaol. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Old Melbourne Gaol for its deeply fascinating and eerie historical experience. The guided tours, especially those focusing on Ned Kelly or the night-time ghost tours, are frequently highlighted for their engaging storytelling and atmospheric immersion. While the subject matter is somber, the gaol is considered a must-visit for those interested in true crime and Melbourne's darker history.
"Spent 2 hours wandering around this history filled jail, had goosebumps for the entire time! Did the extra Ned Kelly tour with our tour guide Tom and I highly recommend as it really brings the jail to life. Highly recommend a visit and I can’t wait to return and do one of the night tours!"
Libby Fletcher
"My partner and I attended the 'Ghosts? What Ghosts?' guided tour, lead by a great storyteller Janette.
I loved the experience and stories told, as well as the images we saw along the way. Loved being guided in the dark, added to the atmosphere.
Overrall very very happy with our experience, loved it!"
Kadence R
"Very interesting. Plenty of history here to see. There are tours available. Plenty of information to see and read. Well worth the visit to see."
Christine Brandt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Melbourne Gaol is conveniently located in the heart of Melbourne's CBD at 377 Russell Street. It's easily accessible by public transport, with numerous tram routes stopping nearby. If driving, there are several parking stations in the vicinity, though they can be pricey. :bus: :train:
Yes, its central location on Russell Street makes it very easy to find. It's a prominent historical landmark in the city. :round_pushpin:
Absolutely! If you're coming from the suburbs, taking a train into Melbourne Central or Flinders Street Station and then a short tram ride or walk will get you there. :train: :tram:
For night tours, public transport is highly recommended as parking can be limited and expensive. Trams run frequently in the city center. :tram: :nightwithstars:
Yes, there are several paid parking stations nearby, such as Melbourne Central and Secure Parking. However, be prepared for city parking rates. :car:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the tour type and whether you're an adult, child, or concession holder. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date pricing for day tours and specific night tours like the 'Hangman's Night Tour' or 'Ghost Tour'. :moneybag:
For day tours, you can often purchase tickets on arrival, but booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak times. For the popular night tours, booking ahead is essential as they frequently sell out. :ticket: :calendar:
A standard daytime ticket typically grants you access to explore the gaol at your own pace, including the prisoner cells, the gallows, and the City Watch House. Guided tours may incur an additional cost or be part of specific packages. :scroll:
Look out for potential discounts on the official website or through third-party ticketing sites. Family passes or concession rates might also be available. :discount:
The gaol is generally open daily, but hours can vary. It's crucial to check the official website for current opening times, especially if you plan to visit on a public holiday or for a specific event. :clock:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic prison cells, learn about notorious inmates like Ned Kelly, see the gallows, and experience the City Watch House. Guided tours, especially the night tours, offer a more immersive and spooky experience. :camerawithflash: :ghost:
Daytime visits are typically self-guided, allowing you to explore at your own pace. However, there are specific guided tours available, such as the Ned Kelly tour and various night tours, which are highly recommended for deeper insights. :walking:
The gaol can be a fascinating educational experience for older children interested in history and true crime. However, some content and the atmosphere, especially on night tours, might be too intense for very young or sensitive children. Parental discretion is advised. :child:
A self-guided day visit can take around 1.5 to 2 hours. Guided tours, especially the night tours, can last between 1 to 1.5 hours. You might want to allocate a bit more time if you plan to read all the exhibits thoroughly. :stopwatch:
While efforts have been made to improve accessibility, some areas of the historic gaol may present challenges for wheelchair users due to the nature of the old building. It's advisable to contact the venue directly for specific accessibility information. :wheelchair:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use in most areas during the day. However, flash photography is usually prohibited to protect the exhibits and maintain the atmosphere. Always check for specific signage. :camera:
Yes, the dimly lit cells, the gallows, and the overall architecture offer many atmospheric and historical photo opportunities. The night tours can be particularly challenging but rewarding for photographers. :iphone: :art:
The corridors with rows of cells, the execution site, and the Watch House cells offer dramatic backdrops. Capturing the eerie ambiance of the night tours can also yield unique shots. :bulb:
Photography during night tours is often restricted or discouraged to maintain the immersive and spooky atmosphere. Flash photography is almost always forbidden. It's best to enjoy the experience without the distraction of taking photos. :noentrysign:
You can find many photos on Instagram by searching hashtags like #oldmelbournegaol, #melbournejail, and #melbournehistory. TikTok also features many visual snippets of the gaol. :globewithmeridians:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, it's important to note that the gaol's subject matter is inherently dark, dealing with crime, punishment, and executions. While daytime visits are generally suitable, parents should use their discretion regarding the intensity of the content for very young or sensitive children. Night tours, with their focus on ghosts and darkness, are likely best suited for older teens and adults.
👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts
The night tours, especially the 'Ghost Tour' and 'Hangman's Night Tour', are designed to capitalize on this eerie reputation. Conducted in darkness, these tours aim to create a chilling atmosphere and may offer opportunities for visitors to experience the gaol's spectral side. Many visitors on Reddit and social media share their spooky encounters, making it a prime destination for ghost hunters.
🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond the Ned Kelly connection, the gaol provides insights into the harsh realities of 19th-century justice. The City Watch House offers a glimpse into policing of the time, and the exhibits detail the social conditions that led to incarceration. Guided tours, particularly those focusing on specific historical figures or periods, are highly recommended for a deeper understanding.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Infamous Ned Kelly
During your visit, you can see the cell where Ned Kelly was held and learn about his trial and execution. The guides often share vivid anecdotes that paint a picture of his daring exploits and the circumstances that led to his downfall. This historical connection makes the Old Melbourne Gaol more than just a prison museum; it's a portal to a pivotal moment in Australian history.
For those fascinated by true crime and Australian history, the Ned Kelly tour is a must-do. It offers a compelling narrative that resonates with many visitors, making the experience both educational and deeply engaging. It's a chance to connect with a legendary outlaw and understand the context of his era.
Haunted History and Night Tours
Several night tours are offered, including the 'Hangman's Night Tour' and the 'Ghost Tour'. These tours are conducted in near-complete darkness, significantly enhancing the spooky ambiance and making for a truly immersive experience. Visitors often describe feeling a sense of unease or witnessing unexplained phenomena, making these tours a highlight for paranormal enthusiasts.
Reddit users often recommend the 'Hangman's Night Tour' as the best, noting that all night tours are designed to be creepy due to the darkness. If you're looking for a thrilling and atmospheric way to explore the gaol's dark past, booking a night tour is highly recommended. Just be prepared for a potentially unsettling but unforgettable evening.
Daytime Exploration vs. Guided Tours
However, many visitors highly recommend opting for a guided tour, especially the specialized ones like the Ned Kelly tour or the night tours. Guides often bring the gaol's history to life with engaging stories and historical context that you might miss on your own. The 'Hangman's Night Tour' and the 'Ghost Tour' are particularly praised for their immersive storytelling and atmospheric delivery.
For a first-time visitor interested in crime and history, a guided tour can offer a richer and more memorable experience. If you're comparing it to Pentridge Prison, another Melbourne jail, the Old Melbourne Gaol is described as more 'kitsch' and focused on the convict era, while Pentridge is grittier and more modern. The Old Melbourne Gaol also includes the City Watchhouse, which offers a cool, interactive element.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit