freo prison night tour

Fremantle Prison Torchlight Tour

Fremantle, wa.

• Desc ription
• Info rmation
• Reviews (4)

Explore the darker side of Fremantle Prison’s history.

The Prison walls echo with stories of loneliness, pain and suffering, of executions gone wrong, of the innocent unjustly imprisoned and the guilty punished.

Join Fremantle Prison guides in the dark as they entertain you with sordid and ghastly stories.

Be warned - these tours are not for the faint hearted.

• 90 minute ghost tour

Fremantle Prison is one of Western Australia’s most fascinating and significant cultural attractions.

The history of Fremantle Prison dates back to the early beginnings of Western Australia and its role in the development of this State is unparalleled. It is the largest convict built structure in Western Australia and the most intact convict establishment in the nation.

In 2010, Fremantle Prison became the first building in Western Australia to be included on the World Heritage list. Its inscription on the World Heritage list was part of a serial nomination with ten other Australian Convict Sites.

The site is also recognised on the National Heritage List and State Register of Heritage Places. It is classified by the National Trust and is part of the City of Fremantle's West End Conservation Area.

Decommissioned as a maximum-security gaol in 1991, the Prison was continuously used as a place of incarceration for almost 140 years. With death row, solitary cells and gallows, it is a monument to a system of punishment that is uncomfortably recent.

Departs every Wednesday and Friday evening. Tours depart regularly from 6.30pm, with multiple tours throughout the evening In summer months, tours depart from 7.00pm onwards.

Bookings and pre-payment essential.

There are currently no dates listed for this experience. Please make an enquiry by pressing the Send email button above.

Wheelchair access approximately 70%.

Tour bookings are non-refundable and non-transferable.

Family price is valid for two adults and up to three children (aged 4 - 15 years)

Accepted concession cards include: Seniors Card, Pensioner Card, Student Card, Backpacker Card (YHA, VIP, Nomads, Peter Pan). Concession rates are available for holders of valid and current concession cards (with a valid sticker or date). All concession cards must be presented at the time of ticket collection to be eligible for concession prices. Any adult seeking a concession must be the main beneficiary of the concession card.

Prices valid until 30 June 2018.

A good ghost tour. The prison in itself is scary at night. Interesting stories of the spirits that reside at the prison. Captured orbs and mists on the camera. Passionate tour guide. Good history of the prison. Fun night out

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The Fremantle Prison Torchlight Tour: Take It If You Dare

After my not-so-great experience with the Townsville Ghost Tours , I thought it could go either way as either really corny or really exciting. Which way did it go?

Surprisingly it was really good, coming in with a mix of historical facts, ghost stories, a few surprises and an awesome tour guide. Seriously, the tour guide so often has a way of making or breaking an experience, and the tour guides I saw working at the Fremantle Prison were some of the best in the way they told the stories and carried you along from creepy place to creepy place.

That combined with a few people in character in some of the darkest corners around the prison had a way of transporting you back in time.

The Fremantle Prison incarcerated criminals for 140 years until it was decommissioned in 1991. Hundreds of thousands of convicts have passed through those doors during that time, and when you see the facilities of this prison, you will be taken all the way back to the early days during a time of bucket toilets and minimalist security.

So, yes, I would definitely recommend the Fremantle Prison Torchlight Tour . It may cost $25, but it is worth it; you get 1.5 hours of entertainment in this World Heritage listed site , and a good portion of that fee will go to preserve the building itself.

>> Check out things to do in Perth , or read more about Fremantle .

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Freemantle prison torchlight tour... - Fremantle Prison

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Freemantle prison torchlight tour - excellent

We booked for the 8:30 tour to ensure it was pretty dark to get more of the atmosphere. Our guide (Chris) soon had his audience enthralled with his good banter and stories. the tour was about 1 and half hours long and filled with great scary moments, you certainly didn't want to be the last person to leave any of the rooms and sometimes being the first in wasn't good either :) There was plenty of interesting facts and photographs to look at, times were really tough for the inmates Anyway a great experience, well worth the trip and we would certainly recommend. One final thing, I was glad I had the good sense to wear my brown trousers ha ha

In this tour you are kitted up, have abseiling gear on, climb down a series of ladders to the aquifer under the prison and explore on foot and via canoe. Wow! It was awesome, the staff were fantastic and it was reasonably priced! One of the highlights of our trip - we absolutely loved it and it was fantastic value for money!

We went on a tour and found it very entertaining. The guide had a great sense of humor and engaged us all. The whole group laughed and participated well and I learned a bit about our history. Worth a visit.

My fiancé and I visited the Fremantle prison a month ago, we went on the general tour of the prison which was very good, plenty of information, great tour guides and a very nice history. We didn't visit the cafe so cannot comment there, however I would recommend using public transport and not driving as parking is paid and a premium.

Disappointing Ghost Tour on a number of levels. -The group size was huge - We could hear one of the two other groups at various points of the tour. - The guide told he didn't believe in Ghosts. This Ghost tour was gimmicky and didn't have the feeling you get on guided tours of smaller groups. You need it quiet to get the spooky feeling that you might see a ghost. Hearing the other group ahead laughing talking ruins that. Since the guide didn't believe it killed the mood within the opening few minutes. They also have a few actors playing prisoners that were good but over the top. You get to keep the little keyring flashlight as a souvenir.

Thank you so much for your feedback and sincere apologies for the delay in responding. I am sorry to hear you found our tour disappointing, we have noted your feedback and have discussed it with our Tour Guides and Actors. I just wanted to take the opportunity to clarify that our evening tour is a Torchlight Tour and not a Ghost Tour. It is not promoted as a ghost tour because our main focus is on the grim and ghastly aspects of Prison life, rather than ghosts. As one of Australia's (allegedly) most haunted buildings we certainly do touch on ghosts and we have had visitors report sightings of ghosts onsite before. Our Torchlight Tour size is the same as our Prison Day tours - we take a maximum of 35 people per tour. If you visited during school holidays or other peak periods you probably had the full 35 on tour. Again, thank you for taking the time to post your review and we hope you make it back to Fremantle Prison one day and have a more pleasant experience the next time around. Thanks, Alana - Prison Marketing

This was a fantastic tour and it was really interesting. We did the doing time tour which took about an hour and a quarter. It was well worth the time and money. I didn't rate Freemantle itself very highly. It looks a little run down.

Welcoming visitors since 1850

Step inside and do time

Get Inside the criminal mind

Explore the darker side of history

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Whats on at fremantle prison.

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Australian Tourism Awards - Cultural Tourism 2021 Gold Winner

WA Tourism Awards - Cultural Tourism 2023 Silver Winner

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Western Australia Expert

Fremantle Tours

Welcome to my guide on tours in Fremantle, affectionately known as Freo to us locals. Fremantle isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience. Its unique blend of the old and the new, the historical and the contemporary, makes it an unmissable part of any Western Australian adventure.

Through my visits, I’ve uncovered the best tours that showcase Fremantle’s diverse charm — from its storied past revealed in the walls of the Fremantle Prison to the culinary delights awaiting in its renowned eateries.

This post may contain affiliate links (of companies I book through). This means I may receive a small commission if you book through them. You can read the disclaimer for more information.

Fremantle Prison Tour s

Fremantle Prison , one of Western Australia’s most iconic heritage sites, offers a variety of tours from spine-chilling ghost tours to an insightful exploration of the prison’s history.

One of the highlights for me was the “True Crime” tour. As our group walked through the gates, our guide, brimming with knowledge, transported us back to the 19th century, when the prison was built by convict labour. We ventured through the cell blocks, exercise yards, and solitary confinement cells. Listening to stories about the daily lives of the inmates and the harsh conditions they endured was both sobering and fascinating.

For those who seek a thrill, the “Torchlight Tour” is a must. Held at night, this tour added an eerie dimension to the already haunting atmosphere of the prison. Armed with nothing but a torch, we explored the darker corners of the prison, and the guide’s tales of ghost sightings and unexplained occurrences had us all on edge.

The most physically challenging, yet incredibly rewarding, tour was the “Tunnels Tour.” This unique adventure required us to don helmets and descend into the labyrinth of tunnels beneath the prison by ladder. We then boarded small boats to navigate the submerged passageways. It was a surreal experience to paddle through the tight spaces where prisoners once toiled in the dark, damp conditions. The sense of history was palpable, and it was a stark reminder of the ingenuity and resilience of those who built and maintained these tunnels.

Convicts, Culture & Street Art Tour

A great walking tour is the Convicts, Culture & Street Art Tour, by Two Feet & a Heartbeat. This immersive tour is a deep dive into the stories and visuals that define Fremantle, from its early days as a penal colony to its current status as a vibrant hub of arts and culture.

As we wandered through the streets of Fremantle, our knowledgeable guide transported us back in time to the days when convicts roamed these very lanes. We visited the iconic Fremantle Prison, where stories of daring escapes and daily life behind bars come alive.

The tour didn’t stop at history; it also celebrated Fremantle’s transformation into a cultural beacon. We explored the thriving art scene by visiting a local gallery and hidden street art that add a splash of colour and creativity to the city.

Our guide also introduced us to Fremantle’s rich cultural heritage, influenced by indigenous histories and the diverse communities that have settled here over the centuries. This blend of cultures is evident in everything from the architecture to the art and even the local cuisine.

The Convicts, Culture & Street Art Tour is perfect for history buffs, art lovers, and anyone interested in understanding the real Fremantle beyond its tourist façade. This tour offers a unique perspective on how the past and present converge in beautiful, unexpected ways, making it a must-do for visitors and locals alike.

Ready to uncover the layers of Fremantle’s past and present? Join Two Feet & a Heartbeat on this captivating journey through time and creativity, and experience a side of Fremantle you never knew existed.

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Food Lovers Tour

Embark on a gastronomic journey through the heart of Fremantle with the Food Lovers Tour, expertly curated by Two Feet & a Heartbeat. This walking tour is perfect for foodies and anyone keen to explore the local culinary scene through a blend of history, culture, and, of course, delicious food.

The tour begins in the charming streets of Fremantle, where your guide will lead you through historic sites, bustling markets, and hidden laneways, while sharing stories of the city’s past and present. But the true stars of the tour are the stops at some of Fremantle’s best eateries, where you’ll taste a variety of local specialties.

Highlights include sampling the catch of the day at a renowned seafood restaurant, sipping on locally roasted coffee, and discovering small bars that offer craft beers and boutique wines from around the region. Each stop is carefully selected to ensure a memorable experience that offers a taste of the local lifestyle and Fremantle’s culinary best.

Suitable for all ages and dietary preferences, this tour is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon discovering the flavours and stories that make Fremantle a unique destination.

Don’t miss this opportunity to eat your way through Fremantle and fall in love with the city, one bite at a time. Book your spot on the Food Lovers Tour with Two Feet & a Heartbeat and prepare to be delighted by the tastes of Fremantle!

Thrill Boat Ride

If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure on your visit to Fremantle, look no further than the Fremantle Thrill Ride, brought to you by Cicerello’s Jet Adventures . This high-speed jet boat experience isn’t just a tour—it’s an adrenaline-pumping journey that combines the rich history of Fremantle with exhilarating speeds and stunning maneuvers on the open water.

Starting from the Fishing Boat Harbour, the Fremantle Thrill Ride takes you on a 25-minute escapade that promises to be as breathtaking as it is unique. As the jet boat roars to life, hold tight because you’re about to zip across the waves at lightning speeds. Feel the wind in your hair and the splash of the sea as you experience thrilling 270-degree spins, fish tails, and power brake stops.

But it’s not all about speed. As you race along the coast, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights about Fremantle’s maritime history and its iconic landmarks. From the mysterious shipwrecks that dot the ocean floor to the storied tales of the old port, this tour offers a perfect blend of excitement and education.

So, are you ready to take the plunge? Book your seat on Cicerello’s Jet Adventures’ Fremantle Thrill Ride and prepare for the ride of your life in the heart of one of Western Australia’s most beloved coastal cities!

4 Hour Adventure Boat Tour

Set sail on a spectacular voyage with the 4 Hour Adventure Tour, by All Sea Charters Whale Watching & Boat Tours. This tour is the perfect way to experience the stunning natural beauty and thrilling wildlife of Fremantle’s coastal waters. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a family looking for an exciting day out, or a photographer eager to capture stunning seascapes, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.

Your adventure begins at Fremantle’s bustling harbour, where you’ll board a comfortable and safe vessel equipped with all the amenities you need for a pleasant journey.

One of the highlights of this tour is the opportunity to witness majestic whales in their natural habitat. Depending on the season, you might spot humpback whales, southern right whales, or even rare blue whales as they migrate along the coast. The thrill of seeing these magnificent creatures up close is something that resonates with all who experience it.

But the wildlife encounters don’t stop with whales. Keep your eyes peeled for playful dolphins, graceful sea birds, and if you’re lucky, a glimpse of the elusive sea lions known to inhabit the area. Each sighting adds another layer of excitement to the tour, making it a true nature lover’s paradise.

In addition to wildlife watching, the tour includes insightful commentary provided by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about marine conservation and the history of the area. They’ll share fascinating facts and stories about the local ecosystem and the efforts to protect it, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of the oceanic world.

Don’t miss this chance to adventure into the blue, where the sea meets the sky, and where every moment is an adventure waiting to happen.

Small Bar Rickshaw Tour

This tour by Peddle Perth is an exceptional way to discover some of the most interesting and intimate bars in the city, all from the comfort of a pedal-powered rickshaw. It’s perfect if you want to experience the local bar scene in a novel and eco-friendly way.

As the sun sets over Fremantle, your adventure begins. You’ll be greeted by your friendly rickshaw guide, who will be your navigator and storyteller throughout the evening. Settling into the comfortable seat of the rickshaw, you’ll be whisked away to a carefully curated selection of small bars that capture the essence of Fremantle’s eclectic and vibrant culture.

Each stop on the tour offers a unique ambiance and specialty drinks. From rustic, hidden gems where the locals gather, to more sophisticated spots boasting artisan cocktails and gourmet small plates, there’s something to tantalise every palate.

Between bars, as you pedal through historic streets and charming alleys, your guide will point out significant landmarks and share anecdotes that enhance the cultural tapestry of the city.

Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple, or a group of friends, this tour promises a memorable night filled with good drinks, great stories, and the joy of discovery. So hop on, hold on, and get ready to explore the best bars that Fremantle has to offer!

Accommodation

Fremantle offers a range of places to stay , from luxurious waterfront hotels to budget-friendly hostels. I’ve found that booking in advance can secure you a spot in some of the quaint, heritage-listed buildings turned accommodations, adding a historical touch to your stay.

Don’t let another moment pass you by. Book your next adventure with us today and dive deep into the rich tapestry that Fremantle has to offer. From convict history to culinary explorations, these tours are designed to cater to every taste and interest, ensuring that your time in Fremantle is not just a visit, but a journey to remember.

Fremantle Prison: Unlocking the Secrets of Australia’s Convict Past

• by Must See Sights

The massive stone walls of Fremantle Prison have always held a strange fascination for me. From the moment you step through those imposing gates, you can almost feel the weight of history pressing down on you. It’s a place of stark contrasts – beautiful architecture built for a grim purpose.

If you’re intrigued by Western Australia’s convict heritage, or fascinated by the sometimes chilling stories of the past, a visit to Fremantle Prison won’t disappoint. I’ve been a few times now, and each tour reveals another layer of the Prison’s history. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

A Prison Shaped by Convicts

Built by convict labor between the 1850s and 1886, Fremantle Prison served many roles over its long and often brutal history. To understand it fully, you need to grasp the basics of the British convict transportation system and the role WA played. The Prison’s official website https://fremantleprison.com.au/ has a great history section. There are stories here that will stick with you – tales of daring escapes, harsh punishments, and the sheer resilience of the human spirit.

Your Visit: Planning the Perfect Prison Trip

Fremantle Prison offers several incredible tour options. The “Behind Bars” tour is a classic, showing you the cellblocks, yards, and gallows. If you’re feeling adventurous, the Tunnel Tour takes you through a labyrinth of escape routes dug by prisoners under the complex. Night owls will love the spooky Torchlight Tour – I heard some pretty creepy stories on that one!

No matter which tour you choose, booking in advance is essential, especially during peak season. You can easily get to the prison by public transport from Perth, or there’s limited parking on site. Check their website for all the logistical details.

Hidden Gems, Insider Tips & Things to Know

Don’t miss the Prison Gallery, showcasing incredible artwork by former and current inmates. You can even purchase pieces to support the artists. I was really moved by the stories behind the art. The Chapel with its stained glass windows is another surprisingly peaceful spot.

Fremantle Prison can get busy, so early morning or late afternoon visits tend to be quieter. Also, while the site is largely accessible, it’s best to contact the Prison in advance if you have mobility concerns. Keep in mind that some of the stories and exhibits might be a little intense for young children.

My Connection

I’ve always loved history, the stranger the better! I think that’s why I keep coming back to Freo Prison. It’s more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a stark and beautiful time capsule reminding us of a different era in Western Australia.

Have you visited Fremantle Prison? What was your most memorable experience? Let me know in the comments!

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Honest tourism information about Australia

What can I see on the Fremantle Prison tunnels tour?

• David Whitley
• Attractions

The Fremantle Prison tunnel tours go into the convict-dug tunnels below the historic, World Heritage-listed prison building. There’s a boat cruise through the Fremantle tunnels after an 18 metre ladder descent.

Fremantle Prison is one of the most important historic buildings in Australia. When convicts arrived in Fremantle , Western Australia in the 1850s, one of the most pressing tasks was to build a prison they could be locked away in.

Book your perfect Fremantle accommodation .

When convict shipping from the UK stopped, the Fremantle Prison housed the general population . By the time the prison closed in 1991 it was dangerously outdated and completely unsuited to task. The Fremantle Prison is now a World Heritage site, open to the public for a variety of tours. These are themed on prison life and escape attempts.

Fremantle Prison tunnels tour: Under the prison

The Fremantle Prison tunnels tour, however, goes deeper. Literally deeper – it takes visitors into the network of tunnels under the prison.

These underground passageways were dug out in order to tap into a fresh water supply. This was used first for the prisoners, and then for the whole of Fremantle.

The tunnel water is still used for the prison gardens, but the tunnels themselves are now a tourist attraction. Participants don paper suits, harnesses and helmets, then clip themselves to a safety ladder system.

The initial 18 metre descent on the Fremantle tunnels tour is down a series of ladders. This seems scary enough when you’re clipped on, but the original convicts just had a basic ladder and no safety equipment.

Things to book in Fremantle before you arrive

• Your Rottnest Island ferry tickets and bike hire .
• A best of Fremantle two hour walking tour .
• Whale-watching cruise tickets .
• A street art and beer tour .
• A half day sailing cruise to Carnac Island.
• A sunset sailing cruise .
• A four venue Fremantle bar tour .

How convicts dug the Fremantle Prison tunnels

Under the prison is a kilometre-long network of tunnels. Most of this was dug out by hand. Astonishingly, doing the digging for eight hours a day, six days a week, was seen as one of the better jobs. As long as the prisoners worked hard, they would be given time off their sentence in return. Far worse was standing at the top of the shaft, manually pumping out water all day long.

Once inside the tunnels, there’s a lot of bending over to do. They are not high. Tree roots sneaking through show that the tunnels go outside the prison boundaries.

DON’T MISS OUT! 9 fabulous Perth experiences to book today ✅

• ✅ See the Rottnest Island quokkas the smart way – with a ferry and bike package .
• ✅ Be amazed by the abundant wildlife – on a dolphin, penguin and sealion cruise .
• ✅ See clear night skies in a moon-like desert – on a Pinnacles stargazing experience .
• ✅ Indulge in chocolate, cheese & premium wines – on a Swan Valley food and wine tour .
• ✅ See the city sunset from the water – on a Swan River dinner cruise .
• ✅ Watch gold being melted and poured – on a Perth Mint gold tour .
• ✅ Combine nature with imperious city views – on Kings Park Segway tour .
• ✅ Face your fears and get the thrill of your life on a – on a 15,000ft skydive .
• ✅ Find all the best hidden hangouts – on a small bar and street art tour .

Fremantle Prison boat tour

Given that only around a quarter of the tunnel system is walkable, much of the tour is conducted by boat. Participants are loaded into a series of little wooden boats, only big enough for one or two people.

The paddling is self-propelled, and the boat ride goes past spider webs, well shafts and timber supports. It’s a disorientating experience, as there are no landmarks to go by and no maps to read. The lack of things to see make the tour so atmospheric, however. It’s a claustrophobic, underground experience that majors on the weirdness of the location.

The Fremantle Prison tunnels tour must be booked in advance.

The Fremantle tunnels tour costs $65 and lasts around two-and-a-half hours.

5 great day trips from Perth – make your visit special

• Rottnest Island ferry transfer – with bike hire and snorkelling gear. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
• The Pinnacles desert – with koalas 🐨 and sandboarding.
• Wave Rock day tour – with wildflowers & Aboriginal culture.
• Margaret River wineries experience 🍷 – with tastings, caves & Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse.
• Full day Swan Valley wine tour 🍷– with lunch.

The prison is a 24km drive or taxi ride from Yagan Square in Perth CBD . A visit can easily be combined with a browse around the WA Shipwrecks Museum and the Roundhouse , or dining at Bread In Common .

Other Fremantle activities include taking a ride on the Fremantle ferris wheel , going for a sunset cruise and a street art and beer tour by bike.

Fremantle accommodation recommendations

The best Fremantle accommodation options are:

• For distinctive character and a sense of history: Hougoumont Hotel .
• For gorgeous apartments: West End Warehouse .
• For location and cool factor: Warders Hotel Fremantle Markets .
• For a decent pool: Pier 21 Apartmentment Hotel .       
• On a budget: Fremantle Prison YHA .

More underground adventures

The show homes of Coober Pedy , South Australia .

Caving tours at Giants Cave, Margaret River .

More heritage buildings

What heritage buildings in Adelaide are worth seeing?

Explore the castle in the rainforest at Paronella Park near Innisfail .

Which are the best historic buildings on Collins Street , Melbourne ?

Fremantle Prison Behind Bars Tour: What To Expect

Doing a tour at the Fremantle Prison is an absolute must when visiting Perth. It’s the perfect afternoon activity that combines history and a unique location with an interactive experience. This is definitely not a traditional museum and even if you usually don’t enjoy historic sites this one will not disappoint.

Make sure to put Fremantle Prison on your bucket list for visiting Perth and don’t forget to check out our public transport guide to find out how to get there for free.

While there are quite a lot of tour options to choose from the  Behind Bars Tour  gives you a great insight into what life in this prison used to be like. Keep reading to find out exactly why you should choose this tour when you visit the Fremantle Prison and what to expect when you go.

Don’t forget to check out this incredible road trip from Perth to Albany if you want to see more of Western Australia.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we’ll receive a commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep My Australia Trip free and provide high-quality content for you. Please read the full disclaimer for more information.

Table of Contents

FREMANTLE PRISON

Construction of the prison began in 1850 and carried on until 1859 when the initial buildings were completed. Since then the prison has undergone numerous alterations and renovations, many of which were conserved and can be seen by visitors today. The first convicts arrived at the Fremantle Prison in 1855. It was never a peaceful location. Uprisings, hangings, murder and extreme levels of discrimination were a norm at the prison largely due to the horrific treatment of indigenous inmates.

The prison had both male and female inmates and acted as a maximum security facility. There are numerous escape stories from over the years, some of which were mentioned during the tour. Read some of them  here .

The Fremantle Prison is Western Australia’s only world heritage-listed building. It became a tourist attraction in 1991 when it was officially closed as a penitentiary. Since then restoration works have made it possible for the prison to become a wedding and event location and, of course, act as a museum and educational site for visitors.

It is one of the largest historic prisons in the world.

CAN YOU VISIT THE FREMANTLE PRISON WITHOUT A TOUR?

The main part of the prison is only accessible via the paid tours such as the  Behind Bars Tour  described in this post. However, you can visit the Gatehouse which is the prison’s entrance building for free and without a tour. It is not very large but still nice to see if you don’t want to commit to paying for a tour. This area includes the visitor’s centre, the prison gallery and museum, a little tourist shop and a cafe.

However, you won’t be able to access any of the cells or prison buildings without a guided tour. The prison complex is very large and it’s definitely worth seeing.

THE BEHIND BARS TOUR

The  Behind Bars Tour  aims to give you an insight into prison life. It guides you through the prison as if you were an inmate yourself and shows you all parts of a prisoner’s daily routine. By showcasing different time periods visitors can truly see how the prison changed over the years and what convicts were subject to.

Most of the tour takes place in the cellblocks and you get to see the prison kitchen, recreational areas, cells and yards. You can see both the male and female prison facilities as well as the areas of racial segregation.

This tour also takes you to the execution chambers of the prison where many inmates were hanged over the years. It is definitely not for the faint of heart, however, you can choose to opt-out of seeing these places if you wish.

HOW MUCH ARE THE TICKETS?

A regular adult ticket for the  Behind Bars Tour  costs $22 AUD. A concession ticket or a group ticket for more than 10 people costs $19 AUD. A ticket for children under 15 years old costs only $12 AUD. Family tickets are available for $62 AUD which includes 2 adults and 3 children.

If you show a valid student ID you can get a student discount so you only have to pay $10 AUD for a ticket.

There are combination tickets available for multiple tours which will make prices cheaper. Check the prison’s website for  more information.

SHOULD YOU BOOK IN ADVANCE?

It’s usually sufficient to book a tour at the Fremantle Prison a few days in advance. You can also book tickets on arrival, however, since tour spaces are limited you might not be able to get on the tour you want. Try to book online if you’re visiting on a weekend since the tours will be significantly more popular then. Usually, it’s harder to get tickets for the afternoon tours than the morning options.

If you want to visit the prison on a specific day with a time constraint then book your tickets online or over the phone in advance.

WHEN DO THE BEHIND BARS TOURS RUN?

The  Behind Bars  tour runs every hour from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM. The prison is closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day.

HOW LONG ARE THE FREMANTLE PRISON TOURS?

The Behind Bars tour lasts for around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

WHAT TO BRING

The prison offers lockers where you can leave any items and bags that you do not want to take with you into the prison. This is optional, however. You should definitely bring your camera on the tour as well as a water bottle. Anything else is not really necessary to bring.

WHAT’S THE BEST WEATHER TO GO?

The majority of this tour takes place inside, although there are some parts where you will be standing in the various prison yards. While it is still enjoyable to do this tour during a rainy day it will be a better experience when the weather is dry so you can take a better look at the outside areas of the prison.

ACCESSIBILITY

The  Behind Bars  tour is 100% wheelchair accessible.

MY EXPERIENCE: THE FREMANTLE PRISON BEHIND BARS TOUR

At the beginning of the tour, you are welcomed at the reception of the prison where inmates would first arrive and be registered. You are lead through the prison showers, the kitchen and offices which were all conserved to show exactly what prison life was like. With original artefacts such as cooking equipment or office documents, this area was really interesting in my opinion. There are little gadgets such as original soundscapes from the dining hall which make the experience truly come alive.

Next, you get to see two different prison yards where the inmates spent most of their time. In the past, these yards were racially segregated and it was powerful to see the paintings made by aboriginal inmates who were often incarcerated unfairly.

THE CELLBLOCK

After seeing the yards we were lead into the cellblock itself and could look at a variety of cells from different points in time. It was fascinating to see how these cells changed over time. Some only had a makeshift hammock while others were equipped with TVs, toasters and even bathrooms.

The tour guide was very knowledgable and did their best to engage the audience by asking questions and giving small interactive tasks. The stories of prison uprisings and how they were started were especially popular.

One of the most fascinating parts of this tour were the paintings in many of the cells in my opinion. Some inmates were allowed to paint the interior of their cells and the artwork was stunningly beautiful but also disturbing. Again I appreciated the acknowledgement of the suffering of aboriginal inmates.

The tour lead its visitors to the execution rooms of the prison at which point we had the choice to opt-out and skip this part. It was a disturbing experience but conducted in a respectful and educational manner.

Afterwards, we were lead to a more modern cellblock as well as the prison cinema which showed videoclips of actual prisoners exercising in the room. This was another favourite of mine as it gave you real-life impressions to take away from the experience.

Lastly, we visited the women’s quarters of the prison. It was shocking to see the differences between male and female treatment at the time. Again, I was pleasantly surprised at how the tour made sure to highlight these disparities.

The tour ended at the prison courtyard where visitors could see the impressive exterior of the cellblocks and chapel.

OTHER TOURS AT THE PRISON

If you want to see more of the prison you can opt to take other tours while you are there. These include the  Convict Prison Tour  which focuses on individual prisoners’ stories and the prison’s history or the  True Crime Tour  which highlights escape stories and legendary inmates. Lastly, the prison offers special  Tunnels  and  Torchlight Tours  which let you visit the prison’s impressive tunnel system or see the facility at night.

WHAT TO DO AFTER THE TOUR

If you haven’t done a lot of exploring yet you need to see more of Fremantle. This little town may or may not be the best part of Perth and there is so much to do. Don’t miss out! You’ll love the unique things to do in Fremantle we collected in this post.

If you’ve already seen Fremantle why not check out Rottnest Island? Find our complete backpacker’s guide  here .

Camping in Australia? Find out all you need to know  here .

Did we miss anything? If you have any questions or feel like something is missing from this post please leave a comment below or  contact us .

About The Author

How To Get Around Perth – Public Transport Guide

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Rottnest Island Backpacker & Camping Guide

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Enquire about Fremantle Prison tours

Fremantle Prison offers a variety of tours that show the history of Fremantle Prison, Western Australia's first World Heritage building.

Bookings are essential and conditions apply on some tours.

If you are a school or group wishing to visit Fremantle you can read about how to plan your visit and tour options on the Fremantle Prison website .

You can also telephone the ticket office on 61 8 9336 9200.

Related services and information

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Acknowledgement of Country

The Government of Western Australia acknowledges the traditional custodians throughout Western Australia and their continuing connection to the land, waters and community. We pay our respects to all members of the Aboriginal communities and their cultures; and to Elders both past and present.

• Convict Prison Tour
• Experiences

Discover the history of Fremantle Prison from its construction in the 1850s until the end of the convict era in 1886.

Find out why almost 10,000 men were transported from Great Britain and Ireland, how they built their own prison and helped shape the future of Western Australia.

Guided tour.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

Full terms and conditions will be provided during the booking process or upon request.

Fremantle Prison 1 The Terrace Fremantle Western Australia

Public tours depart daily every hour, from 10:00am– 5:00pm. Exclusive group tours are available at 9:45am, 10:15am, 10:30am, 11:45am, 1:00pm, 2:15pm, 3:30pm, 4:45pm and 5:15pm (subject to availability). Public tours 1.25 hours / Private tours 1 hour.

Adult $22.00 / Child $12.00 (aged 4–15)

Min 1 / Max 35 (Min 10 for private tour bookings)

This is a premium experience developed with Cultural Attractions of Australia in mind.

Discover 140 years of prisoner art and explore the Fremantle Prison Collection.

Do time and explore Fremantle Prison’s history as a maximum-security prison.

Explore the darker side of Fremantle Prison’s history.

Get inside the criminal mind.

Descend 20 metres below Fremantle Prison to explore a labyrinth of tunnels built by prisoners.

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