For almost 80 years, the Melbourne Gaol was a place of punishment and execution, where men, women and children were incarcerated for crimes ranging from murder to vagrancy.
A visit to the Old Melbourne Gaol will introduce you to stories of the many inmates who spent time in its cells, including those incarcerated for minor misdemeanours who were housed alongside the state’s most dangerous criminals.
The Gaol’s most infamous inmate, bushranger Ned Kelly, spent the last few months at the Gaol before going to the gallows.
Construction on the Melbourne Gaol began in 1841, and within six years of its official opening the new Gaol was already overcrowded. The discovery of gold in 1851 triggered a huge increase in population, making law and order difficult to enforce. These factors together with poverty and lack of social welfare meant a larger gaol was urgently needed and expansion began. Completed in 1858, it is this block that remains today.
The Gaol complex continued to expand and by 1864 it spread over two city blocks and included labour and exercise yards, male and female hospitals, a chapel, a bath house and accommodation for staff.
Together with the City Watchhouse, which closed its doors in 1994, and the former Magistrates Court, the legal precinct offers a unique insight into the history of Victoria’s justice system.
Experience the precinct during a day or night tour. Children’s school holiday activities are offered throughout the year.
See & Do
- Explore three levels of the Gaol, including original cells and gallows. Audio guide available in both English and Mandarin.
- Uncover the history of Women and Children of the Gaol Exhibition.
- Add to your experience with themed and interactive tours; ‘Escape Artists Tour’ and ‘Life in the City Watch House’ (extra charges apply)
- Brave the dark and purchase tickets for a Night Tour. Choose from the ‘Hangman’s Tour’ or ‘Ghosts? What Ghosts?’
- Children’s school holiday activities are offered throughout the year.
- Browse the Gift Shop to purchase a memento of your visit.
