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Discovery Centre

Asylum for the criminally insane.

The best way to see and understand J Ward is to join one of the regularly conducted guided tours. Bookings can be made online.

Adults $17, concession $15, under 16 $5, under 5 free. Concession applies to Aged Pensioners, Seniors Card holders and pre-booked groups of ten or more. Tickets can be purchased online (below) or by cash or card on the day.

A normal tour will take 1-1.5 hours . Most of our guides will spend much longer than this with anybody who wants to hear more stories or who has questions to ask. It should be noted that the guides do not have access to records or have knowledge of former patients or medical procedures.

There is so much to see that no two tours are exactly the same. Each of the guides is knowledgable in the history of J Ward but each has a wealth of favourite true stories to tell.

You will see the place where murderers breathed their last. You will see where their bodies are buried in unconsecrated ground, supposedly in unmarked graves. You might hear the story of the notorious Garry Webb or of Bill Wallace who lived here for over sixty years and died in his 108th year. You might hear how the Chapel was built due to the efforts of William Watson Carr. You might hear of escapes or suicides or of twelve year olds incarcerated here.

You might hear none of these. There are so many stories in J Ward that people have been back four and even five times. Hours can be spent in the Museum reading early case histories and gazing in wonder at the equipment of the early days of the hospital and the arts and crafts of the patients.

Monday - Friday

10am and 1pm

Due to limited availability of the volunteer staff admission may not be possible after the tour has started.

Please ensure you bring a hat, some water and some sunscreen!

Saturday, Sunday and Victorian public and school holidays

10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm (except Christmas Day)

Group bookings

Bookings for groups of ten or more can be accommodated at practically any time. Bus tours, schools and clubs etc are all most welcome at J Ward. Although macabre in places the history of J Ward is generally not disturbing because of its simple truth. Many schools come here with each year's new class.

Accessibility

J Ward was built between 1859 and 1861 and disabled access was not considered. There are three main sets of stairs in the buildings.

The first is at the front door. An alternative entrance is available. Speak to the guide or phone the front desk on 5352 2703 for assistance.

There is a stairway to the upper level of the main cell block. Stairways lead to and from the underground kitchen and there are no alternative ways to get to these areas.

J Ward is a Tour Only site, so guides will do their best to give all visitors an interesting experience, keeping in mind these unavoidable restrictions.

A disabled toilet is available at J Ward.

Certified assistance dogs are welcome at J Ward.

There are no refunds for change of mind . You can change the date of your tour with a minimum of 24 hours notice. A new date must be chosen at the time of re-schedule. Your order is voided by non-attendance and late cancellation.

Book a J Ward tour online

Please note: the discovery centre does not include a tour of j ward. the discovery centre includes entry to j ward for the purpose of accessing archived records..

If you book into the Discovery Centre and intend to do a tour, you will be charged the difference in admission price upon arrival.

Adults $5, under 16 free. Tickets can be purchased online (below) or by cash or card on the day.

Unable to make it into the Discovery Centre? Email [email protected] with what you are looking for, and one of our friendly volunteers will be more than happy to assist you.

Saturdays and Sundays

11am - 2pm (except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day)

Due to limited availability of the volunteer staff admission may not be possible after 11am.

J Ward was built between 1859 and 1861 and disabled access was not considered. There are two main sets of stairs in the buildings.

There is a stairway to the Discovery Centre. An alternative accessibility option is able to be provided to ensure access to digitised and physical records is accessible to all.

Our volunteers will do their best to give all visitors an interesting experience, keeping in mind these unavoidable restrictions.

There are no refunds for change of mind . You can change the date of your visit with a minimum of 24 hours notice. A new date must be chosen at the time of re-schedule. Your order is voided by non-attendance and late cancellation.

Book online

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Visits Information

Nationwide Optus Outage: Our phone lines are currently unable to receive calls from the public. ACT Emergency Services Triple-Zero (000) services remain functional, but please call only in an emergency. We apologise for any inconvenience.

Information about visits can be found using the subcategories on the left hand side of the page.

Start Your Visit at the Warder’s Residence

Home of the former prison warder, the warders residence is now the starting point of your pentridge prison tour. collect your ticket, meet your guide, browse the pentridge-related book selection or head to warders upstairs and spend time exploring the exhibition and collection space., visitor information.

• Find us 1 Champ Street Melbourne VIC 3058
• Meeting Point Tours start at the Warders Residence, in the grassed courtyard beyond the Clock Tower. Here you collect your ticket & meet your guide.
• Opening hours Thursday to Monday 10.30am – 4.00pm (last tour at 2:30pm) Saturday & Sunday 10.00am – 6.00pm (last tour at 4:30pm) Closed Tuesday & Wednesday, except during Victorian School Holidays. Closed on Good Friday & Christmas Day.
• Night Tours Thursday, Friday & Saturday 6.30pm & 8.30pm

WARDERS BUILDING

The former Warders’ Residence is the introduction to our tours, containing multimedia exhibits and artefacts as a depictive precursor of what visitors will see and hear. Visitors can browse our gift shop of historical books and souvenirs to mark their visit.

Warders Upstairs Gallery

Warders Upstairs hosts a regular program of exhibitions and installations by local and international creatives who share a connection to Pentridge Prison.

Getting here

• By Car Vehicles can enter Pentridge via Sydney Road, Murray Road, Champ Street and Pentridge Boulevard. Three hours of free parking is available.
• By Train Catch the Upfield Line from Melbourne CBD (Flinders Street, Southern Cross, Parliament, Flagstaff or Melbourne Central Stations) and alight at either Coburg Train Station or Batman Train Station – from there Pentridge is a short walk.
• By Tram Catch the Route 19 tram from Melbourne CBD (Elizabeth Street). North bound from the city, the Route 19 tram runs along Elizabeth Street, past the Queen Victoria Market, along Royal Parade (and past Melbourne University) and then along Sydney Road to Pentridge.
• By Bike Ride along Champ Street and enter Pentridge under the iconic Pentridge Clock Tower. From the south, you can ride into Pentridge via Warden’s Walk or Pentridge Boulevard. There are numerous places to park your bike at Pentridge. We even have a bicycle repair station.

Venue Hire & Group Bookings

Looking to host a unique event, a team building experience for your business or an exciting day out for your group? Or are you a professional photographer, or wish to have professional photos taken? Pentridge Prison Tours is a fantastic location for your next day out, group activity or a picture perfect backdrop.

Get in touch with our bookings team.

Partner Packages & Offers

Unlock exclusive benefits on tours, accommodation and corporate events with our partner packages and offers.

See what’s on offer from our partners.

Pentridge Precinct

Pentridge is Melbourne North’s newest destination, connecting the past with modern entertainment and convenience. There is something for everyone to experience at Pentridge.

Find out more.

National Trust of Australia (Victoria)

The National Trust is the proud operator of Pentridge Prison Tours. Members receive free access to the tours, as well as more than 1000 sites and properties around the world.

Visitor Facilities

• Accessibility Tours have been equipped with ramps and other access points to ensure access for wheelchair users as much as possible. Due to the Heritage nature of the buildings, access to the upstairs of H-Division is by stairs only.
• Parking Three hours of free parking is available in the Pentridge Shopping Centre Complex. Parking Information
• Food & Drink After your visit enjoy a drink or bite to eat at one of the many bars and cafes available at Pentridge. Find out more.
• Weather There are outdoor elements to both H & B Division tours. Please make sure you bring appropriate clothes for the forecast weather. Tours will run on wet days so an umbrella may be helpful.
• Toilets Located within the Pentridge Shopping Complex
• Gift Vouchers Are you giving the gift of experience? A National Trust Gift Voucher for a Pentridge Prison Tour is the perfect way to say thank you, happy birthday or congratulations. Purchase here.
• FAQ Have a question? Click here or get in touch with our team.

Diplomatic Missions Self-Guided Driving Tour

In its role as the national capital of Australia, Canberra hosts diplomatic missions from around the world, all with an official representative of that country in residence. These missions are called High Commissions, if the country is part of the British Commonwealth, or Embassies if they are not. There are 110 countries represented in Canberra, with majority of buildings located in three diplomatic estates – Yarralumla, West Deakin and O’Malley. A few missions are also located in Forrest and Red Hill. This drive explores those that reflect a national building style or have specific architectural interest.

Canberra did not have a diplomatic corps until the 1930s but once the first representatives arrived, it grew rapidly, reflecting Australia’s expanding role in world affairs after World War II. A trend developed, initiated by the United States, to build diplomatic premises in an architectural style reminiscent of the country of origin.

DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS

1. high commission of canada.

150 Commonwealth Ave

Canadian timbers have been used throughout the building, including red cedar eaves, and two Canadian maples planted by the flagpole. The totem pole was carved by Haida artist Clarence Mills for the Canadian pavilion at the 1988 Expo in Brisbane. It represents members of his family. 

The Canadian Flagpole at Regatta Point was presented to Australia in 1957, for more information and background please click here .

2. New Zealand High Commission

140 Commonwealth Ave

Whilst not built in any national style, the interior has been fitted out with New Zealand products and New Zealand plantings feature in the gardens. The Kowai tree (Sophora tetraptera) on the northern side of the building may be the only example of this frost-tender species in this part of Australia. 

3. British High Commission

130 Commonwealth Ave

Canberra’s diplomatic corps began in 1936 with the appointment of the first British High Commissioner. The chancery and residence were built at the same time and cost a quarter of a million pounds – an enormous sum in those days.

4. Embassy of the People’s Republic of China

15 Coronation Dr

Immediately recognisable as a Chinese structure, the embassy grounds contain traditional gardens, including an ornamental lake, waterside pavilion, zigzag bridge and rockeries. The roof tiles were imported from Yixing and craftsmen came from Shanghai to build the roof, rockeries, gardens and internal decoration.

5. High Commission of Papua New Guinea

39 Forster Cres

The building is a Haus Tambaran or Spirit House from the Sepik River. These were meeting places for tribal elders and storehouses for sacred objects. The stylised painted images of clan ancestors and the carved totem poles were created by students from the National Art School in Port Moresby.

6. High Commission of the Republic of Singapore

17 Forster Cres

The sweeping shape of the first floor and roof edges form an arc, suggesting the equatorial circle where Singapore is located. The adaptation of European building styles to Singapore’s climate is suggested in the lattice sunshades, overhanging roofs, double posts and veranda.

7. Embassy of Finland

12 Darwin Ave

The building is named ‘Ilmarinen’, after the armoured Finnish navy vessel sunk during World War II, itself named for the blacksmith hero of Kalevala, the Finnish national epic. Offices sit like cabins lined up along the side of the building, connected by walkways overlooking the atrium spaces.

8. High Commission of Samoa

3 Darwin Ave

Based on a traditional ‘Fale’ or house this building reflects the openness of Samoan life. Houses are usually lashed together with ropes called ‘afa’ in intricate designs. This is represented in the design of the front gates and on motifs on the pillars inside.

9. Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt

1 Darwin Ave

The eclectic design of the Egyptian embassy reflects the diversity of contemporary Egypt, rather than the monuments of the past. The exaggerated proportions of the public areas, including the large barrel vault which forms the entrance, allude to classic Egyptian architecture.

10. Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia

8 Darwin Ave

The embassy’s display pavilion, Wisma Wista Budaya, is built in the style of a traditional Javanese pendopo. The hand-carved Balinese statues beside the steps represent characters from two ancient Hindu epics - the ‘Ramayana’ and the ‘Mahabharata’ – that have been adopted by the Indonesian people.

11. Embassy of Mexico

14 Perth Ave

At the centre of the building there is a model of Tenochtitlan, capital of the Aztec Empire and site of the modern Mexico City.  A massive image of the Mexican national emblem and an Aztec calendar by the main entrance gates on Perth Avenue are distinctive features of the embassy. 

12. High Commission of Malaysia

7 Perth Ave

The chancery and reception hall feature huge sweeping ‘Minangkabau’ roofs, typical of the Malaysian state of Negri Sembilan, and traditional ‘bunga raya’ flower motifs on the walls. The port cochere entrance of the chancery leads to a marble-tiled foyer containing displays of Malaysian craft and Selangor pewter.

13. Embassies of Norway and Denmark

15-17 Hunter St

Although not of architectural significance, this site is interesting due to the dual occupancy. It is unusual for countries to do this but not unknown. Elsewhere in Canberra Cuba and Morocco share a single building and the government of Estonia is contactable through the Finnish Embassy.

14. Embassy of France

6 Perth Ave

The chancery design echoes forts of the French Foreign Legion. The War Memorial in the grounds is a token of gratitude to the Australian soldiers who fought and died in France. The pillar of a gilded bronze sculpture, ‘Winged Victory’, includes the names of battles involving Australian troops. 

15. High Commission of Pakistan

4 Perth Ave

This building is a modern interpretation of the Mughal inspired building style typical of Pakistan, demonstrating the symmetry and balance of that architecture. A striking addition is the mural on the exterior wall by Shehzar Abro depicting two early leaders of Pakistan – Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Iqbal.

16. South African High Commission

2 Perth Ave

This is representative of the Cape Dutch style, with traditional whitewashed walls and a roof gable inscribed with the date of construction. The small windows have teak shutters which can be closed against the heat of the sun. The gardens are extensive and include many plants native to South Africa.

17. Embassy of the Republic of Turkey

6 Moonah Pl

The elongated windows and pillars of the building recall the arrow shoots and turrets of Ottoman castles or ‘hisars’. The garden design drew its inspiration from traditional Ottoman garden design and combines 20 000 tulip bulbs with Australian indigenous plants and trees.

18. Embassy of the United States of America

The lease for this first purpose-built embassy was signed the day of the attack on Pearl Harbour. The residence and chancery are built in colonial Georgian style, inspired by Christopher Wren’s designs for Williamsburg, Virginia. 

19. High Commission of India

3 Moonah Pl

This design was inspired by classical elements of Mughal and Hindu architecture. The mathematical symmetry of the building and the ornate decoration are typical as is the use of a moat. This moat is the culmination of a water feature which flows from the entrance on Moonah Place.

20. Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar

22 Arkana St

Steel columns surrounding the building support distinctive steel lattice work, reminiscent of the woven construction of lattice screening of traditional houses in Myanmar. Extensive use of glass is also a feature of the building.

21. Royal Belgian Embassy

19 Arkana St

Inspired by traditional Flemish architecture, the residence features shutters like those used to protect farmhouses against the bitter cold in winter and the sun in summer. All the furniture in the main rooms was specially designed in Belgium, including the crystal and bronze chandeliers.

22. Embassy of Ireland

20 Arkana St

Although it might not be obvious at first, this group of buildings is evocative of a cluster of low-lying buildings on an Irish farm. The white-washed walls and steep, thatched roofs of traditional Irish farmhouses have here been updated with the use of brick and tile.

23. Embassy of Spain

15 Arkana St

The building incorporates these regional elements: two patios with svelte columns, typical in the south; a façade of glass-covered balconies, typical of the north; and a completely white exterior, like Andalusian buildings.

24. Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany

119 Empire Circ

The buildings reflect the functional style favoured in Germany in the 1950s and 1960s. The colours of the brightly painted exterior are similar to those of the national flag and contrast sharply with the greenery of the garden setting.

25. Embassy of Greece

9 Turrana St

A contemporary mix of classical and Hellenistic Greek architecture, featuring columns of Pentelikon marble from the same quarries used by the ancient Athenians. The design also includes an atrium, traditionally a central garden open to the sun around which the various rooms of a house were built.

26. Embassy of the Republic of Poland

7 Turrana St

The embassy is built of concrete, with a brick building frame and terracotta roof tiles, giving it a solid appearance characteristic of brutalist architecture. Both it and the residence have timber-lined ceilings and timber accents (handrails, desks and doors).

27. Royal Thai Embassy

111 Empire Circ

Traditionally, the height of the steeply pitched rooves lets hot air escape to cool the house while the broad overhangs protect the interior from both sun and rain. The curved roof-ends are symbolic of ‘Naga’ that adorn Khmer temples. The Sala Thai pavilion, for public functions, was added in 1998.

28. Embassy of Japan

112 Empire Circ

The overall design echoes a traditional wooden residence. There is a tea garden, with a tea house, stream, pond, lanterns and pagodas; and a Kare-sansui (waterless stream) garden with white gravel surfaces representing a pool, stream or ocean, and rocks representing islands.

29. High Commission of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka

61 Hampton Circ

The design of this building draws inspiration from a movement known as ‘Tropical Modernism’, where traditional elements are reimagined for modern life. The distinctive red tiled rooves are supported by decorated columns topped with abstract capitals, suggesting palm trees.

30. Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia

38 Guilfoyle St

The design of the embassy is based on the Qasr Al Morabaa Palace (the Square Palace) which was built for King Abdul Aziz Bin Saud, the first monarch and founder of Saudi Arabia. The embassy also includes a central domed roof traditional throughout the Muslim world.

31. Embassy of Italy

The design aims to reflect the ancient tradition of Italian architecture in the modern environment of Canberra. Whilst designing the building, the Italian architect fell in love with a city ‘untouched by ugliness and history’ and now lives in Canberra.

32. Solomon Islands High Commission

1 Beale Cres

A contemporary design echoing both the construction and decoration of traditional wooden buildings. This includes the exposed roof trusses used for strength against cyclones and heavy storms. The various structures surround a central courtyard to give a village-like atmosphere. Timber totems represent each of the nine provinces.

33. High Commission of the Republic of Mauritius

2 Beale Cres

Traditional Mauritian building styles reflect a strong French influence, adapted for a tropical, humid climate. This building echoes that style in the deep, sheltering eaves. Being a single storey it also pays homage to family homes known as ‘Case Creole’ which are now rare in Mauritius.

34. Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

4 Beale Cres

The large, formal entrance suggests the city gates of Ninevah or Herat, including the brick decoration. This leads through to a central courtyard, the heart of an Afghani household. Not visible from the street, the rear of the building suggests a cluster of traditional mud homes, including a watchtower.

35. Embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina

5 Beale Cres

At first glance this seems to be a suburban home but the raised tower represents watchtowers typical of unwalled villages and remote castles. The colouring and mix of building materials honours coastal housing whilst the regularly spaced, small windows across the front are a traditional Bosnian style.

36. Embassy of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste

7 Beale Cres

The construction is a simple design, to inspire affordable community housing in Timor Leste. The roof echoes the colours and patterns of traditional Tais cloth, an important, diverse part of Timorese heritage. Funds to build the embassy were raised by Australian organisations and several firms donated building products.

37. High Commission of Brunei Darussalam

10 Beale Cres

Built in the style of the traditional stilt houses of the Malay Peninsula, this recalls the origins of this island nation and their links to the ocean.

38. High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus

30 Beale Cres

Cyprus is at a crossroads of cultures so buildings there have many influences. However, the pointed arch is a distinctive Cypriot initiative, dating from the Byzantine. The solarium and courtyards create shelter from the sun but allow breezes through, whilst shutters block the sun out of the building.

39. Embassy of Hungary

17 Beale Cres

With a complex history of invasion and change, Hungarian building styles are varied. This design incorporates the arches, balconies and planters common across several eras of dwellings. Traditional red roofing tiles and a broad pitched roof also suggest a Hungarian home, as does the entrance extending towards the visitor.

40. High Commission of the Republic of Fiji

19 Beale Cres

The deeply pitched roof of this building is reminiscent of Fijian ‘bure’, or traditional wooden houses, usually thatched with pandanus leaves. The round timber posts supporting the portico further echo traditional houses, including the design on the upper and lower sections, suggesting typical tapa cloth coverings.

41. High Commission of the Republic of Botswana

130 Denison St

Although not a traditionally inspired building, the vibrancy of the coloured tile pattern on the curved wall at the entrance is striking. The design recalls pattern making on traditional fabric, basketry and pottery.

42. Embassy of the Republic of Croatia

14 Jindalee Cres

The inclusion of a round tower - a modern interpretation of Croatian Renaissance castle buildings (such as the one at Varaždin) gives an indication of the history of the country. The vibrant roof tiles and soft colour of the walls recall buildings on the country’s Adriatic coast.

43. Embassy of the Lao People's Democratic Republic

12 Jindalee Cres

The Chancery is situated with a visual prominence in a landscaped setting to appear both stately and approachable. The Lao architectural form is strongly defined by the detailing of the roof. The roof component of the buildings is constructed in a traditional Lao style, consisting of high pitched roof elements, with the Naga incorporated into the ridge and gutter lines that reflect the architectural style, distinct character and national significance of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Each building is designed and situated to create a corresponding courtyard space to provide outdoor rooms sheltered from the environment and landscaped in accordance with Lao formal planting patterns.

* Embassy of the Federative Republic of Brazil

19 Forster Crescent 

The Brazilian embassy makes excellent use of its site with the design elegantly accommodating the slope of the land. Most windows look out towards either Lake Burley Griffin or the bushland at the rear of the building, resulting in a beautiful views from almost every room.  

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region.

We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.

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 ?

Tunnels Tour

Get into your hardhat, slip into your overalls, lock into the ladder system and descend below the Prison to explore a labyrinth of tunnels built by prisoners.

Feeling adventurous? Get into your hardhat, slip into your overalls, lock into the ladder system and descend approximately 20 metres below the Prison to explore a labyrinth of tunnels built by prisoners.  Discover original blast holes, bores, oil lamp recesses and artefacts from the days when working in the tunnels was hard labour for prisoners.

Guides lead the trek through dry sections of the tunnels on foot, before boarding replica convict punts to explore the submerged passageways accessible only by boat.

Bookings essential.

This tour is not recommended for pregnant women.

Participants must:

• be physically fit and able
• have the ability to climb independently
• have the ability to understand tour conditions and follow staff instructions
• meet physical weight requirements: Min 40kgs (88.5lbs), Max 140kgs (308lbs)
• not suffer from a fear of heights or claustrophobia
• bring or wear socks
• arrive sober (mandatory breath test applies)

Minimum age is 12 years. Children between 12 and 15 must be accompanied by an adult (18+). It is recommended that at least two adults accompany groups of two or more children to ensure an adequate level of adult supervision. Should a child be unable to complete the tour for any reason they must be accompanied by at least one respective parent or guardian. Those aged 16 and 17 must have declaration forms signed by a parent or guardian, but can partake in the tour without an adult present.

Visitors are required to sign the following declaration form before participating in the Tunnels Tour (hard copies available on arrival).

Tour details

Image gallery.

Fantastic tunnels tour, another bucket list item ticked off!

Be sun smart.

You may not know this but summer in Australia can get pretty hot. Stay sun smart on tour by making sure you wear sunscreen, stay hydrated and wear a hat.

• Discounted packages must be purchased on the day of   first   tour and can be issued as a return pass valid for 30 days
• Prices listed are valid until 30 June 2024

Tunnels & Prison Tour Package Add a Prison Tour for only $10.

Canberra man Donald Morley sentenced to nine years in jail for murdering his elderly wife

Canberra's oldest killer will die in custody after he was sentenced to nine years in jail for the murder of his wife by the ACT Supreme Court on Monday.

Donald Morley, 93, pleaded guilty after suffocating Jean Morley, 92, in her bed in July last year.

It was the last act in a marriage which had lasted 69 years.

The pair had been teenage sweet hearts.

On Monday Justice David Mossop said the couple had lived "the Canberra dream" arriving from England in 1970, where they lived a prosperous and happy life.

Morley was a master tooler at the Royal Australian Mint, and Jean Morley worked for an accountant.

The pair had no children, but owned their own home and led a full social life, which included regular lunches with close friends.

Justice Mossop told the court it was after the couple went out for lunch with friends that the crime occurred.

He said Jean Morley had told her husband she hadn't enjoyed the outing, and he'd agreed with her.

Mrs Morley had been suffering dementia and Morley himself had declining health at the time.

The court heard he told a community worker "we've lived too long".

Morley told police he had gone to bed that night before his wife, and that was when he decided to end both their lives.

Morley had told the court that when Jean Morley came to bed he suffocated her, and then made three attempts to kill himself.

The crime was discovered later by a health worker.

"That's my angel," Morley told the woman about Mrs Morley, before police and ambulance officers arrived.

'Murder remains murder'

Justice Mossop said Morley was not motivated by malice, and noted a doctor's assessment that with both declining in health and Morley struggling to care for his wife he had "been unable to see a way through".

That was despite discussions about home care packages and other help available to the pair.

"[Morley] came to fear the future and believed that this was an acceptable option," Justice Mossop said.

But he said that did nothing to diminish the crime.

"Murder remains murder, notwithstanding the age or infirmity of the victim or the perpetrator," Justice Mossop said.

"Murder is the gravest denial of individual autonomy… all the more so when the victim is vulnerable."

Justice Mossop acknowledged that punishment was not a large consideration, but general deterrence was a factor.

"The forceful murder of one's spouse must be denounced," he said.

The court had earlier heard Morley has between three and six months to live.

He watched Monday's sentencing via video link in a hospice where he is being treated for terminal cancer.

"Any sentence … will effectively be a life sentence," Justice Mossop said.

But he refused to suspend the sentence, saying that would fail to recognise the gravity of the crime.

Morley was sentenced to nine years in jail with a non parole period of four-and-a-half years.

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• Courts and Trials

• Fremantle Prison

Step behind bars and be guided through history

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Fremantle Prison stands as Western Australia’s premier heritage attraction delivering a diverse range of unforgettable visitor experiences. Embark on the Fremantle Prison Art Tour with a passionate guide, or explore the intriguing range of available tours, including True Crime,   Torchlight and the underground labyrinth of Tunnels , among others.

Built by convicts in the 1850s and decommissioned as an operating maximum security gaol in 1991, Fremantle Prison in Perth is the largest convict-built structure in Australia and the most intact convict establishment in the southern hemisphere. In recognition of its heritage significance it is currently the only World Heritage listed building in Western Australia.

Visitors can ‘step inside and do time’ with Fremantle Prison’s experienced Guides on a range of fascinating, educational and entertaining daily tours highlighting the daily life of convicts and prisoners, view museum displays in the Gatehouse complex or visit themed exhibitions in the Prison Gallery.

1 The Terrace Fremantle Western Australia

9.00am – 5.00pm Daily (later on Wednesday and Friday evenings)

Closed Good Friday and Christmas Day

• fremantleprison.com.au/
• +61 8 9336 9200

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.

Discover the convict history of Western Australia’s only World Heritage-listed building.

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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