City Watch House Tour - Melbourne Crime History

Experience the gripping reality of being 'arrested' in this uniquely immersive tour guided by a 'Charge Sergeant.' From the moment you're taken into custody, you'll encounter the stark and sobering atmosphere of the Old City Watch House.

Operating from 1909 to 1994, the City Watch House served as Melbourne’s primary holding facility for individuals awaiting their court dates. During this near-century-long period, every person apprehended in Melbourne passed through its formidable doors, situated directly across from the historic Russell Street Police Station.

Accompanied by your guide, you'll explore the austere cells and former exercise yards that once held countless detainees. Conclude your journey with a visit to the compelling Bending the Bars Exhibition, and don’t forget to snap your very own mug shot as a memorable keepsake of your time in the Watch House.

Ghost Tour at the Old Melbourne Gaol

Brace yourself for decades worth of bone-strumming tales of unexplained sights, sounds and encounters after dark at the Old Melbourne Gaol. Not for the faint of heart. ‘Ghosts! What Ghosts?’ takes daring participants into the mysterious and supernatural realms that linger within the gaol's cold stone walls. This uniquely haunting experience is led by seasoned guides with an intimate knowledge of the gaol's darker history, bringing forth tales of the unexplained, the eerie, and the haunted. This night tour is conducted in the dark and includes confined spaces, and appropriate footwear is recommended. It is not recommended for children 12 years and under.

Hangman's Night Tour at Old Melbourne Gaol

Let the Hangman guide you through every corner of Old Melbourne Gaol and its disturbing history, with no stone left unturned. What dark and grisly stories will the Hangman uncover? As daylight fades, the gaol becomes dark and atmospheric. The Hangman’s Night Tour delves into the macabre accounts and haunted history associated with the Gaol. Due to the sometimes graphic nature of the tales, this immersive tour is not recommended for children under 16 years of age This night tour is conducted in the dark and includes confined spaces, and appropriate footwear is recommended.

Escape Artists Tour

Step back in time to hear incredible tales of brave and clever escape artists. From Ann Miniver-Davis, who disguised herself as the Prison Governor’s wife, to Ronald Ryan, who spent six hours making a hole in the ceiling, the gaol is filled with fascinating stories of those who dared to break free. Over its 79 years of operation, Old Melbourne Gaol saw more than 60 escape attempts. Even the nearby City Watch House, which only closed in 1994, had its share of thrilling getaways. Join the knowledgeable National Trust guides on this exciting outdoor tour, perfect for all ages. Explore what remains of Melbourne’s Historic Crime and Justice Precinct and hear amazing stories of some of the gaol’s most creative escape artists.

Life in the City Watch House

What's Available

Ghost Tour at the Old Melbourne Gaol

Hangman's Night Tour at Old Melbourne Gaol

Escape Artists Tour

Life in the City Watch House

About

What's Available

Ghost Tour at the Old Melbourne Gaol

Hangman's Night Tour at Old Melbourne Gaol

Escape Artists Tour