beechworth jail tours price

Just Me Travel

Solo travel blogger, old beechworth gaol guided tour – an authentic and educational step back in time.

Old Beechworth Gaol – A Horrible History Tour.

The Old Beechworth Gaol guided tour is much more than a walk through a heritage-listed building. It is the perfect way to explore the gaol and have history come alive. Beechworth Gaol is a time capsule that offers an authentic and educational look into the past. Visit the cells that housed notorious bushrangers, learn about convict life, and uncover some of the gaol’s darker history. Step inside and go back in time with an expert guide.

Beechworth is North East Victoria’s best-preserved gold rush town, leaving a legacy of colonial architecture that boasts 32 heritage-listed buildings. Old Beechworth Gaol is one of those buildings, and it is heritage-listed by the National Trust for its historical, architectural, and archeological significance to the state of Victoria.

Getting there

A short drive from Albury (45 kilometres), Beechworth is in my backyard.

For those living further afield, Beechworth is a 3-hour drive northeast of Melbourne (284 kilometres), 4 hours southwest of Canberra (391 kilometres), and about 6 hours southwest from Sydney (593 kilometres).

Don’t have a car? From Melbourne, Canberra, and Sydney, take a train to Wangaratta and then the bus to Beechworth on Wangaratta Coachlines.

Old Beechworth Gaol is located on the corner of Williams Street and Ford Street, Beechworth.

Tours of Old Beechworth Gaol operate daily at 11.00 am and 1.00 pm and take about one hour. You can purchase your guided tour tickets at the Old Beechworth Gaol Cafe located in the gaol wall near the main gates. Alternatively, you can book your tickets in advance online . Please check their Facebook page, The Old Beechworth Gaol , for updates on tours.

Our guided tour of old Beechworth Gaol started with a double vaccination status check. Walking through the main gates, the courtyard provided a venue for Daniel, our tour guide, to give us an overview of the history of Beechworth gaol.

• Taking approximately six years to build, Beechworth Gaol was opened in 1864 and initially housed men and women.
• The outer stone walls are granite.
• The razor wire on top of the gaol’s walls replaced the original barbed wire.
• The current iron gates replaced the original wooden gates in 1879 when there was a suspected prison outbreak.
• Beechworth Gaol was a medium-security prison.
• The prison has a history spanning 140 years, closing in 2004.

From the courtyard, our tour took us to the hard labour yard where male prisoners were put to work crushing granite rocks into gravel for roads and footpaths. The guards in the towers overseeing the hard labour yard worked 12-hour shifts.

The mural in the hard labour yard painted by the inmate, Woodsie

Moving into the cell blocks was like entering a time capsule, where time has stood still since the prison’s closure in 2004. The feeling of being locked in time was confirmed by Daniel when he advised the cells have not been touched since 2004.

A cell on old Beechworth Gaol – a time capsule

In the men’s cellblock, the gallows with the hangman’s noose was visible on death row – the top floor of the men’s cellblock. Eight men were executed in Beechworth Gaol between 1865 and 1881, and they are buried in unmarked graves in the exercise yard against the western wall.

The gallows and hangman’s noose on death row in the men’s cellblock

Daniel regaled us with stories of Ned Kelly’s misadventures (murder, assault, theft, and armed robbery) that landed him in Beechworth Gaol. Daniel was an entertaining storyteller. See below for details of who was Ned Kelly and his connection to Beechworth Gaol.

Effigies of Ned Kelly and the Kelly gang

In the women’s cellblock, cell 10 was the designated mother’s cell with its two doors. One door (the front door) led into the cellblock, and a guard could open the back door to allow the mother to let her children outside to play. Daniel explained that the children were not prisoners but were locked up with their mother.

Cell 10 – the mother’s cell with its double doors

At the end of the women’s cellblock is the solitary confinement cell where a prisoner was locked in the cell 23 hours a day. The prisoner was allowed outside in a caged area for one hour a day.

The prisoner solitary confinement exercise cage

Our final tour stop was the exercise yard, the burial site of the executed men. An empty swimming pool dominates this lawned area.

Old Beechworth Gaol and the Ned Kelly connection

Ned Kelly was Australia’s most notorious bushranger and known for wearing a suit of iron armour during his final shootout with police. He was immortalised in the 1970 Ned Kelly movie starring Mick Jagger in the title role.

For those not familiar with Australian colonial history, escaped convicts who used the bush to hide from authorities were the original bushrangers. By the 1820s, the term had evolved to refer to those who took up armed robbery as a way of life, using the bush as their base.

Ned Kelly first became intimately acquainted with the inside of Beechworth Gaol at the age of about 13. Over the ensuing years, he became more familiar with the gaol on at least two other occasions.

Daniel was a wealth of information about Ned Kelly and his time spent in Beechworth Gaol. He held our undivided attention when telling of Ned’s imprisonment for lewd behaviour and assault when he was 16 years old. According to Daniel, Ned sent a package to a lady containing a man’s testicles and later assaulted her husband. There is great truth in the story as Ned did indeed send testicles to the lady. However, depending on your resource will determine the nature of the testicles. A man’s testicles, a calf’s testicles, two calves’ testicles – believe what you will. I suspect the story has grown legs.

For the lewd behaviour and assault crimes, Ned Kelly received 6 or 8 months (once again, depending on your resource) imprisonment in Beechworth Gaol.

Time for lunch

Whether you do the old Beechworth Gaol guided tour in the morning or afternoon, you must eat in Beechworth.

You are spoiled for choice for places to eat in Beechworth. I have eaten at several places and never had a bad meal.

On the day of my old Beechworth Goal tour, I ate at the Beechworth Pantry Gourmet Delicatessen & Coffee Shop on Ford Street. I ordered the Asparagus, Leek and Cheese Quiche with apple and Pear Salad and couldn’t resist the Hazelnut Meringue with Berries and Cream. I left the cafe very satisfied and with bars of fruit nougat in hand for later enjoyment.

My final review

If you plan to visit Beechworth, do yourself a favour and take a step back in time with a guided tour of old Beechworth Gaol. The tour provides all ages with an authentic and educational experience in which local, expert guides bring a dark history to life. It is a unique experience not to be missed and highly recommended.

The female cellblock in old Beechworth gaol

Disclaimer: This post contains no affiliate links. All views and opinions are my own and non-sponsored. All photos are my own and remain the copyright of Just Me Travel.

© Just Me Travel 2018-2022.

Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. The only other prison tour I have taken was to Alcatraz when I was visiting San Francisco. Where have you taken a prison tour?

Like this post? PIN it for later!

Author’s Note: Please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip, and always follow government advice.

You might also like...

Enjoy a wonderful high tea on a dedicated yarra river cruise [updated 2022], planning a trip get the best world long range city weather forecasts [2022 updated].

Type on the field below and hit Enter/Return to search

Beechworth Lunatic Asylum Ghost Tour

Beechworth, vic.

• Desc ription
• Reviews (0)

As night falls upon Beechworth you will be led though the cold and deserted buildings of the former Mayday Hills Lunatic Asylum.

As you explore the most intact 19th century maniacal wards in Australia we will share with you spine tingling stories of 9000 deaths inside the building. This two hour tour will take you back to a time to when the building housed 1500 patients that were destined to spend eternity within the walls.

From the main roundabout in Beechworth head south east on Camp Street, Continue onto Albert Road and follow to the very end. You will run directly into the grounds of the asylum. Please follow the signs around for the ghost tours to where to meet.

All prices, availability and tour and product information are subject to change without notification, and while every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the prices, availability and tour and product information displayed on this website they are not guaranteed to be accurate.

Ghost Tour Bookings is not a provider of tours, experiences or products and has no responsibility for any tours, experiences or products provided or not provided by the tour operator, supplier or any other party. The tour operators and suppliers provide services and products directly to customers.

back to top

Viewing: Australia

Other Countries

New Zealand

United Kingdom

United States

Information

User Agreement

Privacy Policy

Find us on Facebook

Old Beechworth Gaol

Victorian High Country

In 2016 a consortium of locals banded together to buy the historic 1860 Beechworth prison in order to save it from being developed. Entry to the gaol is only possible by taking a 'Rogues, Rat Bags and Mongrel Dogs' tour, packed with fascinating tales of its most infamous inmates – namely Ned Kelly, his family and sympathisers. There's a good cafe housed in a retro Airstream caravan (open 9am to 2pm), and bikes can be hired from a kiosk just outside.

The jail was used right up until its closure in 2004.

cnr Ford & Williams Sts

Get In Touch

https://www.oldbeechworthgaol.com.au

Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Aboriginal Exhibitions Gallery

24.83 MILES

Opened in late 2017, this Indigenous gallery at Rutherglen Estates presents an ongoing and evolving showcase of work by some of Australia's leading…

Ned Kelly Vault

Within the original subtreasury building (c 1858) where gold was stored is this exhibition space dedicated to Australia's most infamous bushranger, Ned…

Burke Museum

Dating from 1857, when it was the Beechworth Athenaeum, this is one of Australia's oldest museums. It was renamed in 1861 in tribute to the famous…

Bonegilla Migrant Experience

24.78 MILES

For 24 years from the end of WWII, Bonegilla, 10km east of Wodonga, was Australia’s first migrant reception centre, providing accommodation for some 320…

Brown Brothers

16.02 MILES

The region’s best-known winery, Brown Brothers vineyard’s first vintage was in 1889 and it has remained in the hands of the same family ever since. As…

King River Brewing

29.94 MILES

On an old tobacco farm just north of Whitfield is this small brewery with its taphouse set inside a tobacco kiln. It has six beers on tap including an IPA…

Bridge Road Brewers

Beechworth’s gem of a microbrewery produces some excellent beer; our favourites are the Chevalier saison and the Bling IPA. All go beautifully with…

22.93 MILES

Following a $10.5 million makeover in 2015, Albury's art gallery is one of the finest NSW galleries outside of Sydney. Regular special exhibitions present…

Nearby Victorian High Country attractions

1 . Ned Kelly Vault

2 . Beechworth Courthouse

The Beechworth Courthouse is notable for Ned Kelly’s first court appearance; see the cell where Ned was held in the basement behind the Shire Hall. There…

3 . Telegraph Station

You can send a telegram (national/international $2/4) to anywhere in the world from the Telegraph Station, the original Morse-code office. There's a…

4 . Town Hall

Beechworth's grand historic town hall dates to 1858, and today is home to the visitor centre.

5 . Burke Museum

6 . Billson's Brewery

In late 2018 the 1865-vintage Billson's Brewery was rejuvenated and reopened to incorporate a tasting room for Billson's iconic cordials, lemonades and…

7 . Bridge Road Brewers

8 . Chinese Gardens

Down near pretty Lake Sambell you’ll find the pleasant Chinese Gardens, a tribute to the Chinese gold miners. After redevelopment in 2017, it's now a very…

Welcome to Asylum Ghost Tours

Daytime history and night-time ghost tours through Beechworth Asylum, one of Australia's most iconic haunted locations

7 nights a week during holiday periods

Ghost Tours

Historical Tours

Paranormal Tours

Private Tours

Old Beechworth Gaol

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

OLD BEECHWORTH GAOL - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Holiday Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travellers' Choice
• Help Centre

Tour of the Beechworth Jail. - Old Beechworth Gaol

• South Pacific    
• Australia    
• Victoria    
• Beechworth    
• Beechworth - Things to Do    
• Old Beechworth Gaol

We took the guided tour with Peter and he was very impressive he had so many facts in his head, The... read more

It’s local for us and to experience it left us wondering why we hadn’t done it earlier. Graeme was... read more

Tour of the Beechworth Jail.

2 friends and I did the Tour on Saturday, 25th August. It was very interesting and informative. It was well worth the Concession price of $10.

The tour staff were very knowledgeable, far better than the previous self guided tour. Well worth a visit.

This is worth a visit because you can wander through at your own pace. There was no tour guide, however there is much to see and read about along the way. CSNSW vacated the gaol and its as if they could return the next day. Surprisingly there are still names of inmates written on whiteboards, listing where they work etc. we spent quite some time on the "inside".

tour guide a wealth of information. interesting to see and hear the history. to stand where Ned Kelly stood. NOT a reproduction.

The tour of Beechworth prison was fantastic! We had the best guide who was so knowledgable, engaging and funny. The history behind this prison is facinating! A must see. My children ages 6,9,11 loved it!

Having visited J Ward in Aarat, I found that the Beechworth Goal tour to be disapointing. The Guide strictly adhered to a memorized script and planned route. I felt that I was being spoken at rather than spoken to, there was little time for questions and to absorb what was being seen (apart from the jail cells we were hurried along quite quickly). I realize that the Goal has been reporposed and so some areas are unaccessible, however, I sure there are parts of the goal that could also be included in the tour. I would have liked to have viewed the guard towers and given more information on some of the other prisioners apart from the Kellys. Information on changes made during it's history in regards to how the prisoners were treated would have been interesting. If you've never been to a historic goal you would probably enjoy this, if you've been to J Ward in Aarat you probably won't be to impressed.

Hi Toni, Thanks for your feedback. Our guides do stick to a script as our tours are extensively researched and we like to make sure we provide an accurate portrayal of the gaols history. In addition we do actually encourage questions and this is highlighted throughout the tour. We do also talk about Ned Kelly but he is just one of 7 people we speak about on the tour. Not quite sure why you missed this. The tour includes talks about early treatment of prisoners and compares to modern including food, punishment, daily life and many other things. In regards to the guard towers, they were designed for one person in the 1850's so taking a group up there is impractical and potentially dangerous. Toni, I would like to offer you a free tour of the gaol, so you may better understand the tour package we offer.

This Way North, Punching Underwater. On location behind the scenes with OBG.

Reimagining Place, guided by people

Proudly owned by locals, the Old Beechworth Gaol is a vibrant precinct for the social, cultural and economic benefit of the region.

Explore OBG through one of our daily guided tours, historic night tours (winter), school or large group private tours. Soak in the history of this iconic landmark by getting behind the walls, see the cells and excercise yard to learn what it might have been like for a prisoner. See the tours available and purchase your tickets online - there's something for everyone.

Visit our cafe grab a bite to eat and a refreshing iced latte or hot coffee, as you explore the inner sanctum of the OBG. Locals love our cake and locally roasted Sixpence coffee, visitors can't leave without trying our local Silver Creek sourdough toasties - OBG style!

e mountain bikes

Head out on your next cycling adventure with our eMountain Bike hire. Various bike sizes available kids - adult. Choose to ride the world class Indigo EPIC mountain bike trail, the extensive Rail Trail network,  heading to Yackandandah or go on your own adventure.   Our bikes are equipped with a bike lock, spare tube and equipment to change a tyre if needed. Get out there!

Bike Shuttles

Servicing the Beechworth area and nearby surrounds. Choose to ride the world class Indigo EPIC Mountain bike trail, the extensive Rail Trail Network or go on your own adventure -  we have you covered with our Shingleback Trailer and 'Old Mate' Troopy. ‍ (Can take up to 10 passengers at a time) By appointment only. ‍ BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL For enquires and bookings please call 0419 477 637.

What's on

We host a number of live events throughout the year - Pop up Outdoor cinema - Granite Cinema, Workshops, Live Music, Artist Displays. Check out the what's on page to see what's coming up.

Looking for a career to support your passion for regional tourism, hospitality and all things gaols? Head to our careers page to see the latest opportunities with OBG.

ASYLUM GHOST TOURS

Asylum Ghost Tours offers ghost tours, history tours and paranormal investigations, and any combination of these experiences, all held at the historic Mayday Hills Lunatic Asylum in Beechworth, Victoria, in the midst of eleven hectares of heritage gardens.

Let the experienced guides tell you all the secrets of the place.  All tours below can also be booked as private group tours.

History Tours: While the sun shines, learn all about the historic buildings of the former Mayday Hills Lunatic Asylum.

Ghost Tours: After darkness falls, take a tour of the dark and haunted buildings of the former home for the infirm of mind.

Paranormal Investigations: When all is quiet and the dead things open their eyes, take part in a two or three-hour investigation to attempt to find out who or what really does haunt the foreboding asylum.

Photography Tours: Escorted tours through the facility for photographers and film-makers.

Take your time to explore the beautifully-restored gold town of Beechworth and surrounds, and then experience the haunting Beechworth Asylum, one of the last remaining facilities of its kind in the country.

22 Kurrajong Way, within Mayday Hills Village, top of Albert Road, Beechworth, VIC, 3747

Complete this contact form for any enquiries

0473 376 848.

Beechworth Correctional Centre

Table of Contents

Introduction

Located in the picturesque town of Beechworth in Victoria, Australia, the Beechworth Correctional Centre is a significant correctional facility that plays a crucial role in the state’s corrections system. This article explores the rich history, architecture, inmate programs, staffing, community engagement, and future developments of the Beechworth Correctional Centre.

History of Beechworth Correctional Centre

The Beechworth Correctional Centre has a fascinating history that dates back to its establishment in 1854. Originally constructed as the Beechworth Gaol, it served as a key detention facility during the gold rush era. The gaol underwent several expansions and modifications over the years, transforming it into the modern correctional centre it is today.

Architecture and Design

The original construction of the Beechworth Gaol showcases a blend of architectural styles, reflecting the prevailing penal philosophies of the time. With its towering perimeter walls and imposing cell blocks, the design aimed to deter prisoners and maintain strict security. Subsequent modifications and expansions introduced more modern features while preserving the historical integrity of the facility.

Institutional Function

As a high-security correctional centre, Beechworth houses a diverse range of prisoners. The facility implements stringent security measures to ensure the safety of staff, inmates, and the community. It accommodates both remand and sentenced prisoners, with separate areas designated for different levels of security.

Prisoner Programs and Rehabilitation

Beechworth Correctional Centre emphasizes the importance of prisoner rehabilitation. The institution provides a wide array of programs and services aimed at addressing the underlying causes of criminal behavior. Educational opportunities, vocational training, drug and alcohol rehabilitation, and mental health services are integral parts of the comprehensive approach to prisoner rehabilitation.

Staffing and Management

A dedicated team of professionals manages the day-to-day operations of Beechworth Correctional Centre. From correctional officers to administrative staff, each role contributes to the smooth functioning of the facility. Staff members undergo rigorous training and possess specific qualifications to handle the unique challenges associated with working in a correctional environment. The institution promotes a rehabilitation-focused approach that recognizes the potential for positive change in every individual.

Notable Events and Inmates

Over the years, Beechworth Correctional Centre has witnessed several notable events and housed infamous inmates. Escapes and other incidents have shaped the facility’s history, highlighting the constant need for vigilant security measures. Additionally, the facility has accommodated high-profile inmates, drawing attention from the public and the media.

Community Engagement

Beechworth Correctional Centre actively engages with the local community, recognizing the importance of collaboration in successful rehabilitation and reintegration. The facility offers community work programs that allow prisoners to contribute positively while serving their sentences. Partnerships with local organizations and initiatives foster a sense of responsibility and encourage community support.

Impact on Beechworth

The presence of Beechworth Correctional Centre has a significant impact on the town of Beechworth. The facility contributes to the local economy through employment opportunities and procurement of goods and services. Moreover, the relationship between the centre and the community extends beyond economic factors, with social and cultural implications evident in various aspects of daily life.

Criticism and Controversies

Like any correctional facility, Beechworth has faced criticism and controversies. Overcrowding issues and concerns regarding human rights have raised questions about the effectiveness of the corrections system. Advocacy groups and public scrutiny have played a role in driving reforms and improvements within the institution.

Future Developments and Reforms

Looking ahead, Beechworth Correctional Centre has plans for future developments and reforms. Expansion projects aim to accommodate the growing prisoner population while ensuring adequate resources for rehabilitation. The institution continues to explore innovative approaches to better address the underlying causes of criminal behavior and reduce recidivism rates.

The Beechworth Correctional Centre stands as a significant correctional facility with a rich history and a commitment to prisoner rehabilitation. Through its architectural significance, comprehensive prisoner programs, dedicated staff, and community engagement, the centre plays a vital role in the broader corrections system. As the facility continues to evolve, it aims to address challenges, implement reforms, and contribute positively to the lives of inmates and the community.

• Beechworth Correctional Centre can house approximately 300 prisoners.
• Beechworth offers various programs such as education, vocational training, drug and alcohol rehabilitation, and mental health services.
• Yes, prisoners at Beechworth can receive approved visitors during specified visiting hours.
• Currently, Beechworth Correctional Centre does not offer historical tours to the public.
• Beechworth provides employment opportunities in various areas, including correctional officers, administration, and support services.

Similar Posts

Metropolitan Remand Centre

Metropolitan Remand Centre: A Comprehensive Overview Introduction to the Metropolitan Remand Centre The Metropolitan Remand Centre…

HM Prison Tarrengower

HM Prison Tarrengower: An Inside Look The History of HM Prison Tarrengower Establishment and early years…

HM Prison Loddon

HM Prison Loddon: An Overview The world of corrections and penitentiaries may seem distant to many,…

HM Prison Barwon

HM Prison Barwon Introduction HM Prison Barwon is a correctional facility located in Victoria, Australia. It…

HM Prison Dhurringile

HM Prison Dhurringile Location and Historical Background Nestled in the state of Victoria, Australia, HM Prison…

Port Phillip Prison

Port Phillip Prison Introduction to Port Phillip Prison Port Phillip Prison is a remarkable institution, a…