Old Melbourne Gaol

Since 1845 until its closure in 1924 the Old Melbourne Gaol has held Melbourne's most dangerous criminals.

Step back in time to Melbourne’s most feared destination since 1845, Old Melbourne Gaol. Shrouded in secrets, wander the same cells and halls as some of history’s most notorious criminals, from Ned Kelly to Squizzy Taylor, and discover the stories that never left.

Day and night tours, kids activities throughout school holidays and a chance to explore to the infamous City Watch House, the Gaol remains Melbourne’s most spell-binding journey into its past. To receive free admission to the gaol, learn more about the benefits and become a National Trust member.

Night Tours

Join us on a chilling night tour, if you dare!

Hangman’s Night Tour

What dark and grisly stories will the hangman tell you? Join this exclusive guided tour through every corner of the Gaol with the master of the rope, and hear bone-strumming tales straight from the gallows, with no stone left unturned. Book the Hangman’s Night Tour, and stay brave.

This night tour is conducted in the dark and not recommended for children 16 years and under. Appropriate footwear is recommended.

Ghosts? What Ghosts?

This gaol is a grim place with a dark history. Stories of the unexplained have been gathered over the years from visitors and staff alike. None have been proven, yet. Join this chilling night time gaol tour — if you dare!

This night tour is conducted in the dark and includes confined spaces. Appropriate footwear is recommended. This night tour is not recommended for children 12 years and under.

Place Details

Open Wednesday to Sunday

From 10am to 5pm

Open 7 days in School Holidays

FREE National Trust Members
$33 Adult
$28 Concession
$20 Child (5 - 15 years)
$77 Family (2A + 2C)
$55 1 Adult Family (1A + 2C)
$8 extra child

A Virtual Reality headset is available for mobility challenged visitors courtesy of the State Trustees Australia Foundation.

377 Russell St (between Victoria Street and La Trobe Street), Melbourne

Wurundjeri Woiwurrung Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Victoria and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay respects to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.

PURCHASE TICKETS

More Information

Visit the Old Melbourne Gaol Website

Purchase Old Melbourne Gaol Tickets

Book an Old Melbourne Gaol Night Tour

View Showtime Event Group Brochure

"Ah, I suppose!" - the last words of Ned Kelly as he stood on the gallows at the Old Melbourne Gaol, 11 November, 1880

School Programs

The Gaol offers challenging and engaging programs for junior and senior secondary levels in humanities and legal studies. Four Court Room Dramas encourage students to analyze text and evidence. Gaol and Watch House tours offer introductions to Melbourne's colonial history and concepts in crime and punishment.

Night Tours

Try one of three different night tours at Australia's most feared destination. Our night tours include taking you to the place of real ghost sightings, a tour of the Gaol with the hangman, and an introduction to the criminal underworld in the notorious City Watch House.