jail tours melbourne

• Visit & Contact
• Buy Tickets

Escape Artists Tour

Ghosts what ghosts tour.

• Hangman’s Night Tour
• Old Melbourne Gaol
• Old Magistrates’ Court
• City Watch House
• School Programs

Open 7 Days, 10am to 5pm

Daring Escapes & Untold Stories

Melbourne's Most Spellbinding Venue

Book your next event inside one of the most unique locations..

The Female Ward Tour

Walk in the footsteps of past female prisoners and discover what life was like for women incarcerated in Old Melbourne G..

Daring Escapes & Untold Stories. Discover Old Melbourne Gaol's infamous Escape Artists in this new tour...

Life in the City Watch House

Bring the whole family along and discover what it’s like to ‘have the book thrown at you’ in this interactive expe..

Self Guided Audio Tour

Delve into the highlights and history of Old Melbourne Gaol and enrich your understanding of this significant site. Our..

Women & Children of the Gaol

The second floor now features a suite of cells devoted to the histories of the women & children of the gaol...

Hangman’s Night Tour

Let the Hangman show you around...

Ghosts? What Ghosts!

Brace yourself for the Gaol's most haunted stories...

Tours: Experience More

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.

Let the Hangman guide you through every corner of the Gaol and its disturbing history, with no stone left unturned.

Daring Escapes & Untold Stories. Discover Old Melbourne Gaol's infamous Escape Artists in this new tour.

Take your place in history

Uncover the chilling stories of Victoria's oldest surviving prison.

Plan your visit, open 7 days 10am to 5pm closed christmas day and good friday, old melbourne gaol 377 russell street between victoria & la trobe st melbourne victoria 3000, $35 adult $30 concession $22 child (5 – 15 years) $85 family (2a + 2c) national trust members receive free general admission.

Melbourne’s most haunting and spell binding venue.

Tag your photos #oldmelbournegaol and #nationaltrustvic #ntv.

WARNING: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander viewers are warned that the following website contains images of deceased persons.

• Accessibility

We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woiwurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which the Old Melbourne Gaol is located. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters and communities.

Copyright 2024. National Trust of Australia – Victoria. All Rights Reserved. All images copyright National Trust unless otherwise stated. Website by The Mighty Wonton

Stay in Touch

Be the first to hear about our latest news, get inspiration for great days out and learn about the work done by the National Trust to protect Victoria’s heritage.

• What’s on
• See & Do
• Heritage Festival
• Visitor FAQs
• Custodianship
• Advocacy Blog
• Our Collection
• Explore the Collection
• Collection Highlights
• Donate an Object
• Education Programs
• Primary Education
• Secondary Education
• Professional Development
• Research Services
• Member Events
• Foundations
• Leadership Team
• Branches/Committees
• News & Blog
• Publications
• Annual Report

Old Melbourne Gaol Education Programs

Students learn through the history of the Gaol about the key moments in Melbourne's cultural and social history.

The Old Melbourne Gaol is a former prison that was open from 1845 to 1924, during which more than 50,000 prisoners passed through its imposing bluestone walls, some never to leave. The Gaol was the site of 133 executions, including, most famously, Ned Kelly.   

Students will be transported back in time to witness the harsh day-to-day life of inmates, learning about everything from their food allowances to the rules they had to follow. Students will encounter case studies both devastating and dastardly, with inmates charged with vagrancy (homelessness) being housed alongside bushrangers and murderers. Tailored, curriculum-aligned tours for Levels 5 and up; this is an experience not to miss!  

Levels 5 & 6 History and Civics and Citizenship Education Program

Life was tough in Melbourne in the 1800s, nowhere more than the Gaol ! Focusing on a prisoner’s journey, students will walk in a n inmate’s shoes – learning about the society that condoned a prison like the Old Melbourne Gaol , discovering what crimes warranted a stay in the Gaol , who was housed there (including women and young children), how prisoners were processed, the rules that controlled daily life, the toil and suffering of hard labour , and the atrocious conditions inside the cell block. Students might hear stories of daring escapes or the dangerous landscapes of the goldfields.    

Curriculum Links

Further Program Details

Levels 7-10 History and Civics and Citizenship education program

There has been much change around the Old Melbourne Gaol – from the landscape, the buildings, and the skyline, down to the society that lives in the area and how they perceive concepts such as justice and fairness . Students will be introduced to the notion of justice through the case of a wrongfully convicted man, questioning whether justice was ever served . The Victorian era was tough, desperation was epitomi s ed in the daily new arrivals, locked up for no more than stealing food to feed their families or even just being homeless. Students will embark on a journey of discovery, hearing the stories of those unfortunate enough to be sentenced to time at the Old Melbourne Gaol – including women, and children as young as 6 months old.  

Curriculum Links for Levels 7-8

Curriculum links for levels 9-10.

VCE Legal Studies Education Program

Understanding of justice and criminality has changed a lot over the past two centuries, what was once considered “criminal” is now celebrated, and vice versa . Students will embark on a tour, learning about the cases that led people to be incarcerated at the Old Melbourne Gaol , and the punishments that ensued … The use of corporal and capital punishment alongside the regular prisoner experience will be closely examined by students, focusing on one key question: what was the purpose of the sanction and the outcome?  

Study design links for Units 1-4 Legal Studies

Thematic tours and experiences

The Ned Kelly Experience – Tour and Court Room Drama

We’ve all heard his name , and now students are given the chance to walk in Ned’s footsteps. This program brings the story of the famed bushranger to life! Students will reenact the court trial that saw Ned sent to the gallows at the Former Magistrates Court of Melbourne, dressing up and playing the roles of infamous Judge Redmond Barry, lawyers, police witnesses and Ned himself. Following the trial, students will be guided around the Old Melbourne Gaol , learning of Ned’s last stand at Glenrowan , his time spent at the Gaol and what happened to his body after his death (you might get to try on a suit of armour )!

This experience is one not to be missed!  

FURther Program details

Escape Artists

From the cunning and clever, to the sometimes foolhardy and downright dangerous, Old Melbourne Gaol was the site of many escapes throughout its history. There were upwards of 60 reported escapes from the Gaol  in the 79 years it was open, and several more from the former City Watch House which only closed its doors in 1994.    

Note: This tour takes place outside the cell block . T o   explore the cell block ,   book a Gaol tour or Ned Kelly tour.   

Women's Ward Tour

Plan your visit

377 Russell Street Melbourne VIC 3000

• Parking available
• Walking trails
• Guided tours
• Group bookings

“Our Year 9 students had a wonderful time at the Old Melbourne Gaol Tour. The tour guides were engaging, kind and supportive of our student’s needs. We would 100% book tours again!” Year 9 teacher, November 2023

Call to action section

Book your school program.

Simply fill in our online booking form with your details to make a booking request

Student Resources

How was the gaol run.

Scroll through the narrative galleries below to explore how the Melbourne Gaol represented nineteenth century ideas of using punishment as a way of reforming

Who was sent to the Gaol?

Scroll through the narrative galleries below to explore the reasons why many different types of people might end up in gaol in the second half of the

Why was the Gaol built?

Scroll through the narrative galleries below to discover the story of the Melbourne Gaol and where it sits within Victoria’s criminal justice history.

Virtually There 3D Resources

Take a virtual visit of our historic sites using new 3D technology. This application lets you wander around our sites and see them just as though you could

3D Interactive Court Room

Click here to open the Interactive Court Room. The Judge presides over the court and deals with any legal issues that arise during the

Old Melbourne Gaol Program Overview

Related content

• Related Places
• Related Events
• Related Education
• Related Collections
• Related Exhibitions
• Related Initiatives
• Related News
• Related Publications
• Related Services

Term 4 days out at the National Trust

Pentridge Prison Education Programs

Established in 1851 and closing in 1997, Pentridge Prison is a heritage listed former state prison that has

Scroll through the narrative galleries below to discover the story of the Melbourne Gaol and where it sits within

Take a virtual visit of our historic sites using new 3D technology. This application lets you wander around our sites

Education Bookings for Victoria

Former Magistrate’s Court Education Programs

This significant heritage building offers students an engaging and revealing insight into past and contemporary legal

The Old City Watch House

Students actively explore this confronting place and its people from a number of different perspectives through

Pentridge Prison

Established in 1851 and largely constructed in the period 1858 – 64, Pentridge is the largest prison complex

Old Melbourne Gaol

A visit to the Old Melbourne Gaol will introduce you to stories of the many inmates who spent time in its cells,

This navy colt revolver was used in the shootout at Glenrowan in 1880 and a bullet fired from the gun shot Ned Kelly.

Ned Kelly’s death mask

Convicted at Melbourne on 29 October 1880 for murder, Ned Kelly was a well-known bushranger who captured the

Search National Trust

• Amusement & Theme Parks
• Art Galleries
• Parks and Gardens
• Play Centres
• Playgrounds
• Shopping Centres
• Suburbs - City & CBD
• Suburbs - Docklands
• Suburbs - St Kilda
• Swimming Pools
• Trampoline Parks
• Wildlife Parks & Zoos

Melbourne Zoo

Werribee Open Range Zoo

Sea Life Melbourne Aquarium

Melbourne Skydeck

DFO South Wharf

Melbourne Museum

Old Melbourne Gaol

National Gallery of Victoria

• Public Holidays

Australian International Airshow

Equitana Melbourne

Oktoberfest West

Melbourne Moon Festival

AFL Grand Final

Melbourne Royal Show

Melbourne EV Show

Melbourne Day

Affordable Art Fair

Melbourne Science Fiction Film Festival

Melbourne Home Show

National 4×4 Outdoors Show

• Adventure Activities
• Driving Activities
• Joy Flights
• Outdoor Activities
• Water Activities

Melbourne Attraction Pass

Melbourne Cable Park

Escape Rooms

Potion Putt

Great Ocean Road

Horse Carriage Tours

Hot Air Balloons

River Cruises

Horse Riding

Phillip Island

Winery Tours

• Short-Term Rentals
• Boutique Hotels
• Albert Park

East Melbourne

• North Melbourne
• Port Melbourne 

South Melbourne

South yarra, williamstown.

Melbourne CBD

Port Melbourne

• Restaurants

7 Best Family-friendly Attractions in Melbourne that Your Kids Will Love

Top 7 Public Parks in Melbourne

4 Melbourne Microadventures You Can Do Tomorrow

The ultimate great ocean road trip to remember.

Weather Forecast

The Top 10 Melbourne Cafes You Must Visit At Least Once

Melbourne Airport

Spirit of Tasmania

• General Enquiries
• Advertising Enquiries
• Add Your Business
• Add Your Event

At the Old Melbourne Gaol, you’ll get an opportunity to explore a real 19th-century prison – the oldest prison of the city. This historic site was once a part of Melbourne’s law and order system and is home to the city’s oldest prison, a police watchhouse and magistrates court.

Old Melbourne Gaol Ghost Tour Prices, History & Map

Those taking a tour will get the chance to visit the cells of these infamous inmates. General admission tickets offer each guest a chance to explore the entire premises of the gaol and learn more about the history of this amazing area.

History depicts the significance of this Old Gaol. In total, the gaol had 133 hangings; including the famous execution of Ned Kelley. A cast of Kelly’s face was on display at the gaol in the mid-1970s. After its closure and during the renovations, many remains of Ned Kelley were stolen from the gaol.

Those looking for a thrilling experience can take a night-time tour of the Gaol. This guided tour includes an evening or night tour to the Watch House and the trial court. The tour will also take you to all three levels of the execution area; including the display area of Ned Kelly’s Deathmask.

Old Melbourne Gaol Images & Photos

Book your old melbourne gaol online & save with great prices.

The Best Deals & Prices Online

Instant Tickets to Skip The Queues

Great Sales & Zero Hidden Costs

Safe & Secure Booking System

Old Melbourne Gaol Information & Details

Opening hours, phone number, email address, ticket prices / admission, old melbourne gaol area, street & hotel map, vic, other places we recommend.

Cancel reply

Please Enter Your Question Below

Your Name *

Your Email *

Is the jail far from mantra south bank motel

The Old Melbourne Gaol is just a short 2.1km walk (15-20) minutes from the motel.

Regards, Jess

Can I use a companion card?

I am unable to find this information out for you online, so I suggest you contact them directly on: Phone: (03) 8663 7228 Email: [email protected]

However, I do note that the Old Melbourne Gaol is run by the National Trust of Victoria, so I would be very surprised if they did not admit a carer to accompany the person they are caring for for free.

Are there children’s books on Ned Kelly there to purchase?.

Here is a link to the books that the national trust (who run the Old Melbourne Gaol) sell. Not sure if these are all sold onsite, or whether they are only available online. Contact the jail directly on (03) 8663 7228 if you require further information.

Hi, just want to know if you can purchase Entry tickets at the Old Melbourne Goal. I did not want to book online in case my plans change on the day.

Many Thanks, Leanne

Yes, you can purchase tickets at the door.

Enjoy your day in Melbourne! Regards, Jess

Frequently Asked Questions About Old Melbourne Gaol

Upcoming events, victorian seniors festival, melbourne fringe festival, pax australia, wellness walk and research run, dog lovers show, finders keepers market, the spring racing carnival, melbourne marathon, melbourne international jazz festival, oktoberfest in the gardens st kilda.

Old Melbourne Gaol

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 wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travelers

• (0.02 mi) Space Hotel
• (0.03 mi) Carlton - Executive Apartment
• (0.14 mi) Brady Hotels Central Melbourne
• (0.19 mi) Zagame's House
• (0.08 mi) Central Melbourne CBD Apartment with Gym and Pool
• (0.03 mi) Pachanga
• (0.05 mi) Blu Point Cafe
• (0.08 mi) Chinger Biang Biang
• (0.10 mi) Hi Chong Qing
• (0.11 mi) Panda Hot Pot

The Great Ocean Road Collective

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Old Melbourne Gaol

If you’re looking for an interesting and historic place to visit in Melbourne, look no further than the Old Melbourne Gaol. This former prison is now a popular tourist attraction and offers visitors a unique glimpse into Australia’s dark criminal history.

This former prison held some of Australia’s most notorious criminals and many say the building is haunted. If you’re curious about what it’s like to visit, we’ll provide all the information to make your trip to Victoria’s oldest surviving prison a success.

Table of Contents

History of the Old Melbourne Gaol

The Old Melbourne Gaol was in operation from 1842 until 1929. During this time, it housed petty offenders and some of Australia’s most notorious criminals, including the infamous bushranger Ned Kelly, gangster squizzy Taylor and serial killer Frederick Bailey Deeming. The prison was also the site of 133 executions, the last of which took place in 1924.

By the early 20th century, the Gaol had become overcrowded, unsanitary and inefficient, so it was finally closed in 1929. The prisoners who were still being held were then transferred to Pentridge Prison in Melbourne.

The buildings were subsequently used for a variety of purposes, including as an art school and a museum. However, in 1997 the Old Melbourne Gaol was reopened to the public as a museum and tourist attraction. Today, visitors can explore the jail cells, see displays of prisoners’ belongings, death masks and even take a ghost tour for an extra dose of suspense.

Who Was the Most Famous Inmate?

One of the most famous inmates of the Old Melbourne Gaol was Ned Kelly. Born in 1854 to an Irish Catholic family, Ned grew up in Victoria’s Bushrang region. From a young age, he was involved in various petty crimes, and he eventually served three years in jail for the theft of a horse. Upon his release, Ned became a member of the infamous Kelly Gang.

The Kelly Gang became famous for their daring robberies, and their exploits were widely reported in the press. However, in 1880, the gang was eventually captured after a lengthy manhunt and a shootout with police at Glenrowan.

Ned Kelly who was the leader of the gang at that time was tried and sentenced to death here. He was hanged at the Old Melbourne Gaol in November 1880. His story has since become a legend in Australia.

Visiting the Old Melbourne Gaol

Your General Admission Ticket gives you self-guided admission to the City Watch House, Old Melbourne Gaol and Old Magistrate Court.

There are many areas to explore within the Old Melbourne Gaol prison complex including the gallows, prisoner yards and women’s section. However, the most notable is the three-story cell blocks. You can explore the cells yourself and get a sense of what it would have been like to be locked up there.

The City Watch House was built in 1904 and was the holding cell for prisoners awaiting trial or sentencing. It is located on the northern side of the complex and contains the original interiors of this part of the building.

Connected to the City Watch House, is the Old Magistrate Court. This is the site of the former Supreme Court in Victoria and is where prisoners were sent for sentencing and death. It was in operation from 1911 to 1994. However, the Old Magistrate Court is only open during school holidays.

Included in your General Admission ticket is a Self Guided Audio Tour which can be accessed via a QR code. Bring your phone and earbuds to access it. Otherwise, you will have to purchase earbuds above the price of your General Admission.

The Arresting Experience in the Old City Watch House is also included in General Admission. Here the Charge Sergeant will walk you through what it would have been like to process a prisoner. Just be careful they don’t lock you up after! If you have a General Admission ticket, plan to stay for 2-3 hours exploring the complex .

Cell 17 in the Old Melbourne Gaol is one of the original cells and a particularly eerie place. The cell is said to be haunted by the spirit of an inmate who was wrongly convicted and executed for a crime he did not commit. Visitors to the cell have reported feeling a sense of foreboding, as well as seeing strange shadows and hearing strange noises.

In addition, the cell is said to be significantly colder than the rest of the gaol, despite being located in a warm climate. Whether or not you believe in ghosts, there is no denying that Cell 17 has a dark and eerie atmosphere and is a grim place to visit.

Night Tours at the Old Melbourne Gaol

There is a Hangman’s Night Tour and Ghost Night Tour currently being performed at the Old Melbourne Gaol. The tours provide an opportunity for people to learn about the prison’s grisly history and to experience firsthand the places where past prisoners are said to haunt.

Before making your booking, keep in mind that these tours are performed at night and can include confined spaces. You can also make a private booking for your special occasion.

Where is the Old Melbourne Gaol Located?

The Old Melbourne Gaol is located on Russell Street in the city centre. It’s within walking distance of many other popular tourist attractions, but you can also take public transportation. When it was first built it dominated the Melbourne skyline but today many other buildings are taller.

To get to the Old Melbourne Gaol, take the Number 96 tram from Flinders Street Station. The tram will take you right to the front gate of the Gaol. Alternatively, you walk. It is just 20 minutes on foot from Flinders Station.

If you are visiting from elsewhere, plan your trip with Victoria’s Public Transport  here . You can add the Melbourne Gaol as a destination and it will appear in the planner. If you are travelling by car, there is street parking available in the area. Unfortunately, there is no designated parking for visitors at the Old Melbourne Gaol.

What are the Hours and How Much are Tickets?

The Old Melbourne Gaol is generally open from Wednesday to Sunday from 10:00am to 05:00pm for General Admission ticket holders and then from 8:00pm to 9:00pm for Special Night Tours. Admission prices vary depending on which activities you want to do, but start at around $33 for adults and $20 for children. Members of the National Trust of Australia can enter for free.

You can buy tickets at the ticket office when you arrive or buy tickets online beforehand. We recommend buying before if you are sue you are visiting, as they can sell out during the summer. Tours can be booked up to two weeks in advance. For the most up-to-date information regarding hours and to buy tickets, visit the official website .

Tickets are valid for the whole day, and you are granted re-entry with them. The last tickets are sold at 3:00pm each day. There are no food establishments within the Old Melbourne Gaol but there are plenty of places nearby to grab a bite to eat.

Unlimited Melbourne Pass

If you are coming from out of town and plan on doing lots of exploring while in Melbourne, then the Unlimited Attractions Pass might be a good fit for you. The Flexi pass is an affordable way to save on popular attractions within the city. It lets you choose between 3, 5, 7 or unlimited attractions which you can visit on the pass for up to 3 months.

Entry to the Old Melbourne Gaol and the Ghost Night Tour is included in their list of attractions. As are other popular attractions and things to do in Melbourne like the Zoo, Melbourne River Cruise, Healesville Sanctuary, Melbourne Skydeck and more.

Is The Prison Complex Suitable for Children?

The Melbourne Gaol is suitable for families or for anyone interested in Australian history. There are many family-friendly exhibits and it becomes most busy during school holidays.

Children who visit the gaol will learn about the harsh conditions that prisoners once faced, and they will also get a glimpse into the dark side of Melbourne’s past. As long as they are accompanied by an adult and given a brief explanation of what they are seeing, older children may gain something from a visit to the Old Melbourne Gaol.

However, it is ultimately up to the discretion of the parents who should do some research before visiting. One area your kids might want to steer clear of is the night tours. These can certainly be too spooky for some small children.

Places to Stay Near the Old Melbourne Gaol

The Old Melbourne Gaol is located in one of the most desirable places to stay in the city. If you are visiting, consider staying at one of these hotels near the former prison complex.

The Brady Hotels Jones Lane

This modern hotel has clean, crisp interiors and is located just minutes on foot from the Old Melbourne Gaol. The Brady Hotels Jones Lane is great for couples or families who want a comfortable place to stay in the centre of the city.

A select number of rooms have terraces, and all guests are welcome to use the guest laundry and fitness room. Prices start at just $179 per night.

Space Hotel

Across the street from the Old Melbourne Gaol is the Space Hotel . This youth hostel has dormitories and private rooms for rent, as well as a wide range of amenities. For a budget price, you’ll find sweeping views of the Melbourne CBD from the rooftop. It also has a jacuzzi, bar and BBQ area on the roof.

Back inside, you’ll find a shared kitchen, exercise room, and cinema. All rooms are air-conditioned with pricing starting at $99 per night.

The Old Melbourne Gaol is an important part of Australia’s history, and it offers a unique insight into the country’s criminal past. Whether you are visiting from out of town or you have lived in Melbourne all of your life, the gaol is a must-see attraction.

It goes much further than explaining the exploits of dangerous criminals, it goes a long way in explaining the criminal justice system of the past. If you want to see firsthand the conditions the prisoners endured, then start planning your trip to this unique attraction today.

What are you most excited to see at the Old Gaol?

Read Next: Top Things to Do in Melbourne

• Cadet Space Mission
• New York City

• MORE BOOKINGS
• MORE HAPPY CUSTOMERS

Old Melbourne Gaol

377 Russell St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

Nestled on Russell Street, the Old Melbourne Gaol is not just Victoria’s oldest surviving prison but an integral fragment of Australia’s colonial history. A foreboding bluestone building, it transports every visitor back in time, reliving an era when dangerous criminals, including the notorious bushranger Ned Kelly, languished in its solitary confinement cells. A visit to the Old Melbourne Gaol offers a unique opportunity to explore the watch house, gallows, and the myriad stories that echo within its walls.

If the walls of Melbourne’s most famous prison could speak, they would whisper bone-strumming tales of infamous criminals, hard labour, and the grim shadow of the hangman’s noose. As part of the National Trust of Australia, the Gaol is a testament to the transformation of crime and justice in the country.

Constructed in 1839, the Old Melbourne Gaol has seen the likes of notorious criminals, including Squizzy Taylor and Colin Campbell Ross. Yet, it’s bushranger Ned Kelly’s story that resounds the loudest. On 11 November 1880, wearing his iconic metal armour, Kelly met his end at the gallows, forever cementing his place as both a criminal and an Australian folk hero.

Within its bluestone walls, countless stories of theft, vagrancy, and even more sinister crimes unfold. As Victoria’s oldest prison, the Gaol bore witness to over 130 hangings, with Ned Kelly’s being the most renowned. The prison operated between 1845 and its closure in 1924, with the fixed gallows installed below the octagon across the main axis of the prison block, a chilling reminder of its gruesome past.

What Is Old Melbourne Gaol Famous For?

Known to many as the place where Ned Kelly and his gang were incarcerated, the Gaol also offers night tours, including the eerily intriguing tour of the hangman. Inside the Gaol, visitors can explore every corner, from the ground floor to the second floor, unveiling a tale at each turn.

The City Watch House tour offers an immersive experience. Stepping inside, you’ll encounter the notorious City Watch House, where Melbourne’s most dangerous criminals were brought to face justice. Moreover, the Old Melbourne Gaol Tours encompass a ghost tour, promising spine-tingling encounters for those brave enough.

Adjacent to the Gaol, near Melbourne Central, lies the old City Watch House and City Courts buildings, a stark contrast to the Melbourne skyline. They, too, have stories to tell, stories that intertwine with the very fabric of Australian history.

Did You Know?

• The Gaol once housed not only dangerous criminals but also petty offenders, domestic servants, and even children. Female prisoners were part of the mix, showcasing the diverse inmate population.
• The death mask of Ned Kelly, along with many others, serves as a chilling remnant of the phrenological study of hanged felons.
• From 1842, the gaolers and their families lived within the prison compound in a house for the chief warders.

How To Get There?

Enjoy the intriguing history at Old Melbourne Gaol at night. Aside from that, you can take the bus, train, and tram lines to get there:

Bus: 207, 250, 251, 302, 295

Train: BELGRAVE, FRANKSTON, HURSTBRIDGE, MERNDA, SANDRINGHAM

Tram: 1, 16, 3-3A, 5, 6, 67, 72, 86

Nearest Parking and Cost To Visit The Old Melbourne Gaol

The 62 La Trobe St Car Park costs $5 per 30 minutes in online booking while $8 per hour if drive up. While parking in QV – 180 Lonsdale Street offers $25 per hour.

Nearby Attractions – Make A Day Of It!

Exploring Old Melbourne Gaol in Melbourne? Make sure to visit these interesting attractions close by:

• Melbourne Museum

Melbourne Museum is a dynamic, state-of-the-art cultural attraction in Melbourne, Australia, showcasing diverse exhibits from natural history to Aboriginal cultures and located near the historic Old Melbourne Gaol.

• State Library Victoria

State Library Victoria is a historic and cultural landmark in Melbourne, offering a vast collection of books, stunning architecture, and various exhibitions located near the Old Melbourne Gaol.

Top 5 Closest Hidden Gems – Recommended By Adventure Clues

Your hidden gems itinerary.

• Start your day at Old Melbourne Gaol.
• Walk to Coop’s Shot Tower , an iconic historical landmark that stands as a testament to Melbourne’s industrial history.
• Continue with a walk or public transport to Hosier Lane , known for its vibrant street art and artistic atmosphere.
• Explore at Fed Square , a cultural hub where you can experience art, events, and the lively atmosphere of Melbourne.
• Take public transport or walk to the Koorie Heritage Trust Cultural Walk , immersing yourself in the rich Indigenous culture of Australia.
• Head to Ponyfish Island , conclude your day with a unique floating bar beneath the Southbank Pedestrian Bridge, providing a relaxed riverside experience.

Exploring these locations allows you to delve into the city’s rich history, cultural diversity, and natural attractions. Whether you prefer the tranquility of botanical gardens or the vibrant energy of cultural hubs, Melbourne’s hidden gem locations provide a day of exploration and discovery, allowing you to connect with the city’s unique character.

Best Eateries Around

Don’t miss these popular dining spots near Old Melbourne Gaol:

• The Duke of Wellington

The Duke of Wellington is a popular dining spot near Old Melbourne Gaol, known for its traditional British pub fare and extensive selection of beers.

• The Meat & Wine Co.

The Meat & Wine Co. is a renowned dining destination in Melbourne, offering a unique blend of modern and traditional steakhouse vibes with a vast selection of high-quality steaks and an extensive wine list located near the historic Old Melbourne Gaol.

Entry Price

Self-guided entry to two buildings, the Old Melbourne Gaol and City Watch House, has these ticket prices:

• Concessions: $30
• Child (5 – 15 years): $22
• Family (2A + 2C): $85
• Family (1A + 2C): $65
• Extra Child (on Family Tickets): $10

National Trust members receive free general admission.

Final Thoughts

The Old Melbourne Gaol stands as a testament to Victoria’s complex history of crime and justice, encapsulating tales of notorious criminals, evolving penal methods, and the societal shifts of 19th-century Australia.

Old Melbourne Gaol Tours FAQs

Find answers to questions about the Old Melbourne Gaol’s history in this section.

1. What is the Old Melbourne Gaol and its historical significance?

The Old Melbourne Gaol is a former prison and courthouse in the Russell Street area of Melbourne. It is operated by the National Trust of Australia and is one of the city’s most important historical sites. This establishment held some of Australia’s most notorious criminals, such as the bushranger Ned Kelly and underworld figure Squizzy Taylor. Its dark past includes being the site of 133 executions between 1842 and 1929, with the gallows being a grim reminder of its past.

2. Who was Ned Kelly, and what is his connection with the Gaol?

Ned Kelly was an infamous bushranger and leader of the Kelly Gang. Known for his confrontations with the colonial police, his story is deeply interwoven with the Old Melbourne Gaol. He was imprisoned and ultimately executed there in 1880. His death mask is also displayed, providing a chilling experience for those who visit the Old Melbourne Gaol.

3. What is a Watch House, and why is it linked with this Gaol?

A watch house was historically a local lock-up where prisoners were kept before being transferred to a larger jail or before a court appearance. The City Watch House is closely linked with the Old Melbourne Gaol as it served as the Gaol’s remand centre. The Watch House tour gives you the experience of what it was like to be arrested and locked up in late 19th-century Melbourne.

4. What’s special about the Night Tour at the Old Melbourne Gaol?

The Night Tour, or the Hangman’s Night Tour, is an exclusive feature of the Old Melbourne Gaol tours. Visitors confront the Gaol’s ghostly history, including tales of prisoners, infamous criminals and the restlessness of spirits said to still linger inside the Gaol. It brings one step back in time and uncovers the darker side of its history in a spellbinding night experience.

https://www.oldmelbournegaol.com.au/

https://www.nationaltrust.org.au/places/old-melbourne-gaol/

https://moovitapp.com/index/en-gb/public_transportation-Old_Melbourne_Gaol-Melbourne-site_7138829-2803

https://www.wilsonparking.com.au/attractions/vic/old-melbourne-gaol/

https://museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum

https://dukeofwellington.com.au/

Share this article

City secrets from this category.

Discover The Hidden Gems in Your City

Old City Hall Subway Station (NYC)

It's not in operation anymore, but it offers a view of the city's past. The New York Transit Museum offers tours of the station. New York, NY 10038, ...

West Village Neighborhood (NYC)

It's a neighborhood with unique boutiques, cozy cafes, and historic landmarks like the Stonewall Inn. It's a nice place to explore when you're in the ...

Battery Park (NYC)

It's a good spot at the southern tip of Manhattan. You can catch a ferry to the Statue of Liberty or Ellis Island, or just enjoy the waterfront ...

Choose Your Adventure

Barcelona’s Old Town Adventure – Can you Run The Ruins?

Welcome to Run the Ruins, an exciting scavenger hunt adventure in the heart of Barcelona's old town brought to you by Adventure Clues! Are you ready for an unforgettable journey filled with cryptic clues, hidden gems, and the fascinating stories

7 Spookiest Ghost Tours in Melbourne in 2024

Looking for the spookiest ghost tours in Melbourne? A Melbourne local who knows this city well (and who scares easily!), I’ve got you covered with my top picks for tours.

With a rich history spanning centuries, Melbourne is no stranger to the supernatural. The city has had its fair share of eerie tales and hauntings stretching back centuries.

One of the best ways to learn about this spooky history is by taking a ghost tour in Melbourne. These tours take visitors to the most haunted places in Melbourne and tell the tales behind the tragedy there.

Buildings and laneways that look fairly innocuous by day gain a whole new level of spookiness once the sun goes down and you begin to learn about the murderers, heartbreakers and criminals who once strolled these streets.

And even if you don’t see a ghost, you’ll definitely learn a whole lot about Melbourne’s history.

I’ll admit that I’m not the bravest person, but I occasionally enjoy a good scare, and these ghost tours tick that box perfectly. I’ve been on some of these tours and definitely got goosebumps at times!

So, if you’re up for a bit of adventure and don’t mind a few creepy moments, let’s dig into Melbourne’s spookiest ghost tours.

This blog post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you).

What's in this article (Click to view)

My top 3 Melbourne ghost tour picks

Hidden bars & creepy tales tour.

✔️ Great storytelling ✔️ Visit to 3 pubs

Old Melbourne Ghost Tour

✔️ Operator specialises in ghost tours ✔️ Use of ghost-hunting equipment!

Pentridge Prison Night Tour

✔️ Notorious Melbourne prison ✔️ Plenty of stories shared

What to expect on a ghost tour

If you’ve never done a ghost tour before, you can expect a blend of history, horror and often humour. The tour guides are usually excellent storytellers and they really know how to set the mood.

It’s all done with a healthy dose of dramatic flair – think shadows dancing on walls, sudden cold spots and maybe even a ghostly apparition if you’re lucky (or unlucky, depending on how you see it).

Some tours up the ante by offering you the chance to play ghost hunter with some pretty spooky gadgets. One of the Melbourne ghost tours I went on included dowsing rods – a method of divining spiritual energy that dates back centuries. It was very spooky watching the rods move on their own!

It’s one of the more quirky things to do in Melbourne , but it can make for a fun night out in Melbourne .

Best ghost tours in Melbourne

Here are my picks for the best Melbourne ghost tours, guaranteed to give you goosebumps – and a dose of history.

1. Hidden Bars & Creepy Tales Tour of Melbourne CBD

My top Melbourne ghost tour pick is this Hidden Bars & Creepy Tales Tour of Melbourne . This tour explores the CBD’s famous spots, interwoven with tales of historical intrigue and spectral sightings.

The itinerary includes a stroll past Melbourne’s iconic laneways, Queen Victoria Market, Old Melbourne Gaol (now a top Melbourne museum ) and Chinatown. You’ll also visit lesser-known haunted places such as Pink Alley, the haunting grounds of a child whose murder remains a cold case.

During the tour, you’ll visit three of Melbourne’s most renowned and historical bars. A glass of wine or beer may help calm those nerves!

While there’s no guarantee you’ll encounter a ghost, you will get an engaging mix of ghostly narratives and historical insights into Melbourne.

The tour is run by Drinking History Tours , who have quite a reputation for delivering a potent blend of history and high spirits during their Melbourne walking tours . They’ll leave you with a map of Melbourne’s best bars so you can continue bar-hopping (and ghost-hunting).

Tour groups are small, so you’ll get plenty of opportunities to ask your guide about ghosts in Melbourne.

Note that the tour cost doesn’t include drinks, so you’ll need to bring cash or a card to cover these.

Essential tour information:

• Tour duration: 3 hours
• Group size: 12 people
• Minimum age: 18 years
• What’s included: Map of Melbourne bars, photos from tour, professional guide
• Read reviews

>> BOOK THE HIDDEN BARS & CREEPY TALES TOUR OF MELBOURNE CBD <<

2. Old Melbourne Ghost Tour

The Old Melbourne Ghost Tour is my second choice if you’re looking for ghost tours in Melbourne. I recently did this tour, so I speak from personal experience when I say that you may squeal out loud at times!

Run by the acclaimed Lantern Ghost Tours , this tour is a phenomenal way to get up close and personal with Melbourne’s often macabre history.

Starting at the Young and Jackson Hotel and winding your way to end in Chinatown, this ghostly expedition unravels some intriguing mysteries. Did Jack the Ripper ever prowl these streets? Who murdered that young girl and why?

Our guide was not just a skilled storyteller but also a psychic who shared her experiences of ghostly encounters.

She even brought her dowsing rods along, and it was quite freaky watching the rods move on their own when we were in particularly haunted places.

Others on our tour said they felt chills and hands on them in particular spots.

The tour is billed to last 1.5 hours, but our tour stretched a bit longer, as our group really got invested in the stories.

A word of advice from our guide: come with an open mind. This tour appeals to both sceptics and believers alike, and we certainly had both in our group.

The Old Melbourne Ghost Tour is included in the Melbourne and Beyond Pass , meaning you can save money by bundling it with other attractions. Read my full review of the Melbourne Pass to find out how it works. 

• Tour duration: 1.5 hours
• Group size: 20 people (but our group was a little larger than that)
• Minimum age: 8 years old – if your little ones are brave
• What’s included: Walking tour, local guide

>> BOOK THE OLD MELBOURNE GHOST TOUR <<

3. Pentridge Prison Night Tour

Once a formidable prison and now a site run by the National Trust of Victoria, you can take a peek at Pentridge Prison’s grisly past on the Pentridge Prison Night Tour .

This after-dark tour in Melbourne offers a glimpse into the dark and troubled past of one of Australia’s most notorious prisons. I recently headed to Coburg to take this tour on a Friday evening.

During the tour, you’ll get an insight into life in the notorious H Division – more commonly called Hell Division – which was created in 1958 to deal with the baddest of prisoners. Infamous inmates like armed robber Mark “Chopper” Read, Ronald Ryan (the last person to be executed in Australia) and Shantaram author Gregory David Roberts, who escaped from this prison and fled to India, were all housed here during the almost 40 years it was open.

But this tour isn’t some sort of glorified criminal fan club. The aim is to paint a realistic picture of Pentridge’s brutal history from 1851 to its closure in 1997.

Our guide Michelle told fascinating stories – including her own experience of being at the prison when a prisoner escaped!

The first half-hour of the tour is spent outside learning about the history of the prison before heading inside H Division to explore the fascinating multimedia exhibits that share stories from former prisoners and prison guards.

While the tour isn’t specifically focused on ghostly tales, there are 44 bodies buried at Pentridge – so it’s no surprise that the prison is considered to be haunted. Get ready to be “incarcerated” at Pentridge Prison, home to Australia’s hardest and longest-serving prisoners, some of whom may still roam the corridors…

• Tour duration: 90 minutes
• Group size: 20 people
• Minimum age: 16 years
• What’s included: Guided tour, entry to Pentridge Prison
• There are also daytime tours of both B and H Divisions – book online here

>> BOOK THE PENTRIDGE PRISON NIGHT TOUR <<

4. Spirits and Ales Haunted Pub Walking Tour  

Another tour run by paranormal professionals Lantern Ghost Tours, this spooky Spirits and Ales Haunted Pub Walking Tour combines history, ghosts and pubs for an informative and spooky night out. This is a new offering from the company, so I haven’t tested out the creepiness level of this tour yet.

As you traipse through Melbourne’s shadowy lanes and dimly lit pubs, your guide will bring the city’s past to life.

One highlight of the tour is a visit to a former police station that’s now a haunted pub. Grab a pint and soak in the eerie atmosphere – the venue’s infamous for a chilling murder that remains unsolved.

Later, step into a dark alley where the ghost of a tragic love affair is said to roam.

The tour also includes tales about the Rialto Intercontinental and the Olderfleet Building, as well as the mysteries of one of Melbourne’s most scandalous member clubs.

The journey concludes at the iconic Young and Jackson Hotel, where a young lady is said to haunt patrons, showing off her slashed throat.

Important to know about this tour is that drinks aren’t included in the price, so make sure to bring enough for a pint or two.

• What’s included: Local guide

>> BOOK THE SPIRITS AND ALES HAUNTED PUB WALKING TOUR <<

5. Old Melbourne Gaol: Ghosts? What Ghosts!  

The Old Melbourne Gaol is said to be one of Melbourne’s most haunted places, so it’s no surprise that it offers its own ghost tours.

On this 90-minute Old Melbourne Gaol Ghost Tour , you’ll explore the gaol in the darkness of night and hear chilling tales of prisoners who met their end at the gallows.

Here, petty criminals lived alongside vicious murderers between 1845 and 1929. As the setting for 133 hangings, including that of infamous bushranger Ned Kelly, the gaol’s walls echo with tales of despair and death.

As you wander through the prison’s cold, cramped cells, tales of ghostly sightings and unexplainable occurrences will send shivers down your spine – you’ll definitely be looking over your shoulder!

Keep in mind that the gaol does get chilly at night, so dress warmly. This tour also isn’t recommended for kids under 12, so if you have young ones who are interested in the gaol, it might be better to visit during the day .

• Tour duration: 1 hour
• Group size: 30 people max
• Minimum age: 12 years old
• What’s included: Guided tour, admission to Old Melbourne Gaol

>> BOOK THE OLD MELBOURNE GAOL GHOST TOUR <<

6. Ghosts of Williamstown Guided Ghost Walking Tour  

About 25 minutes southwest of the Melbourne CBD is the bayside suburb of Williamstown. This historic seaport town, once the original capital of Victoria, has a vibrant past teeming with colourful ladies, convicts and drunken sailors, so it has its fair share of stories to tell – including some ghostly ones.

This Ghosts of Williamstown Guided Walking Tour kicks off at the Hobsons Bay Visitor Information Centre and covers about 2 kilometres of walking over 2 hours.

One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to Victoria’s oldest morgue. Here you might meet the ghosts of children and young men believed to still linger in this abandoned place.

Then, step into an opium den straight out of Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries , where you’ll get a taste of 19th-century decadence and decay.

In an interesting twist, the tour also includes a visit to one of the last remaining operational time ball tower, a navigational aid. Here you’ll encounter the spirits believed to protect this important historical monument.

To make your ghost-hunting experience more authentic, you can even use dowsing rods to see if you can detect any paranormal beings on the tour.

To join this tour , you’ll need to make your own way to Williamstown, as the company doesn’t offer hotel pick-ups.

• Tour duration: 2 hours
• Minimum age: 8 years old
• What’s included: Ghost tour with guide, access to buildings not open to the public

>> BOOK THE GHOSTS OF WILLIAMSTOWN GUIDED GHOST TOUR <<

7. Altona Homestead Ghost Tour  

Located to the west of the CBD, the Altona Homestead has a rich past dating back to the 1840s.

During the day, it’s home to the Altona Laverton Historical Society, but at night it’s the paranormal that attracts visitors.

Many visitors and paranormal investigators, drawn by the countless stories of supernatural sightings, have spent nights here.

On this Altona Homestead Ghost Tour , you can step inside each room of this historical home, and you might just meet a ghost or two. While a ghost encounter can’t be guaranteed, given the homestead’s history the paranormal activity level here is high.

The tour doesn’t include transport to Altona, so you will have to make your own way there. But if you’re up for an eerie evening, the trip will be worth it.

• What’s included: Ghost tour with guide

>> BOOK THE ALTONA HOMESTEAD GHOST TOUR <<

Best time to take a ghost tour in Melbourne

Melbourne’s rich history and abundant ghostly tales make any time of the year a great time for a ghost tour.

The darker Melbourne winter months of June, July and August add an extra layer of chill to your ghostly encounters, while the summer months offer milder weather for those who’d rather not bundle up for their paranormal pursuits.

While Australia may not officially celebrate Halloween, the spirit of the spooky season is alive and well, and some might argue that it’s the ideal time to take one of these ghost tours in Melbourne. Some tour companies host special events and activities to coincide with Halloween.

Haunted hotels in Melbourne

Want to spook yourself even more and stay the night in a haunted hotel? Here are some of Melbourne’s most haunted hotels…

• The Hotel Windsor: Known as Australia’s most haunted hotel, The Hotel Windsor has been a hotbed for ghostly encounters, largely attributed to its long-standing history since 1883. Today it’s one of Melbourne’s best 5-star hotels .
• Hotel Sophia: This hotel, located in the heart of Melbourne, is renowned for its chilling tales of spectral guests who have never checked out.
• Adina Apartment Hotel Pentridge: Located in Coburg, this hotel is situated on the former site of Pentridge Prison. The hotel beautifully protects the site’s heritage… and maybe you’ll see a ghost?

Final thoughts: Ghost tours in Melbourne

Whether you’re a supernatural enthusiast, a history buff or a complete sceptic, a ghost tour in Melbourne can be a fun way to spend an evening.

They’re more than just a spooky thrill ride: they offer a unique blend of history and storytelling – and maybe even an encounter with the supernatural.

But even if you don’t see a ghost, you’ll leave the tour with a whole lot of knowledge about Melbourne’s sordid and often tragic history.

And you’ll have a bit more appreciation for the buildings and alleyways you’re exploring during the day. I know I now have a completely different view of the city after going on these Melbourne ghost tours.

FAQs about Melbourne ghost tours

Am i guaranteed to see a ghost on a ghost tour in melbourne.

While the tours are designed to be entertaining and informative, encountering actual ghosts is not guaranteed. Many participants have reported eerie experiences, but the tours are primarily for storytelling and historical exploration. You never know your luck, though!

What should I do if I have a paranormal experience during the tour?

If you have a paranormal encounter during a tour, let your guide or fellow participants know. They’ll be able to advise on what to do and how to document the encounter.

What do I need to bring on a ghost tour in Melbourne?

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. You may also want to bring a camera or recording device if allowed by the tour operator. Some tours provide torches , but it’s always a good idea to bring your own just in case.

Are ghost tours suitable for children?

It ultimately depends on the specific tour and the child. Some tours may have age restrictions, while others may be more suitable for older children. Be sure to check with the tour operator before booking a tour with younger children. Don’t worry, there are plenty of other kid-friendly activities in Melbourne .

Found this article useful? Consider buying me a coffee as a way to say thanks!

Would you take a ghost tour in Melbourne?

Related posts

Before you go… you might like these Melbourne travel posts:

• The absolute best things to do in Melbourne
• 15 awesome walking tours in Melbourne
• The most delicious food tours in Melbourne
• The most haunted places in Melbourne

Best Melbourne resources

• Check out my Melbourne travel guide for everything you need to know about planning a trip to Melbourne
• Look for flights to Melbourne on Skyscanner .
• Book accommodation on Booking.com or Expedia for your Melbourne trip. The Ovolo Laneways Hotel is a good choice in the CBD.
• You won’t really need a car in Melbourne, but if you do want to get out of the city, then rent a car through DiscoverCars .
• Pick up a copy of the Lonely Planet Pocket Melbourne to help plan your trip.

PIN IT FOR LATER

Save this list of spooky Melbourne ghost tours to Pinterest for later!

About THE AUTHOR

I’m Rebecca, a Melbourne local excited to show you the best of Melbourne. I've visited more than 40 countries and have a Master of International Sustainable Tourism Management. After living abroad for 8 years, I’m back home in Melbourne, rediscovering this city that I love and have missed. My aim is to help you find the best things to do in Melbourne.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best of Melbourne for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy Melbourne without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Imagine the Future
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Restaurants & Cafes
• Bars & Pubs
• Theatre & Dance
• Music & Nightlife
• Area Guides
• Competitions
• Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

The spookiest ghost tours in Melbourne

Seek out the city’s supernatural citizens with a guided tour

Look beyond the lush laneways , specialty coffee and hidden bars and you might just see a more sinister side of our city, haunted by days past. Melbourne is brimming with terrifying tales from the distant and not-so-distant past, from the assassination of notorious gangster Squizzy Taylor to the famous opera singer haunting one of our biggest theatres.

Once you start looking, it seems we’re sharing our city with a gaggle of ghosts, so you might as well head on one of these Melbourne ghost tours to get better acquainted with our spooky friends. After all, it’s only polite to get to know your neighbours.

Is it that time of the year? Here are the best things to do for Halloween in Melbourne.

An email you’ll actually love

Pentridge Prison

These days the site is home to apartments, a café and even a cinema, but Pentridge Prison has been part of the Coburg landscape since 1851. The prison was once home to some of Victoria’s most notorious criminals, from Ned Kelly himself to Mark ‘Chopper’ Read. Pentridge was also the site of the last execution in Australia, which was the subject of protests at the time.

With all that dark history, it’s no wonder the prison is haunted. Book the Pentridge Prison D Division Ghost Tour hosted by Lantern Ghost Tours to learn more about the prison’s hair-raising history, with no less than 44 bodies buried on site.

Ghosts of Melbourne: Haunted City

• Things to do
• Walks and tours

Want a spooky experience at your own pace? Ghosts of Melbourne: Haunting Stories & Legends   is a vast self-guided ghost hunt game through the Melbourne CBD. It has all the bones of a classic ghost tour, but with a twist. Think riddles to solve and treasure to hunt. Melbourne has plenty of secrets and it’s safe to say you won’t look at your much-trodden streets the same way after this one.

All you need to do to get in on the spooky action is book your ticket online and download the Questo app, and you can play anytime you want. 

Werribee Park Paranormal Investigation

Put on your thinking cap with the Werribee Park Paranormal Investigation , a mind-bending three-hour experience exploring the original Chirnside homestead. Hidden behind the Werribee Park Mansion by the banks of the Werribee River, this homestead is known for being at the centre of high levels of paranormal activity. 

You’ll explore the stables, blacksmith, coach house and original bluestone homestead, all with guidance from professional paranormal investigators with top-notch equipment. Check out the Twisted History website to book, if you dare. 

Drinking History Tours

For those that prefer their startling tours accompanied by a tipple or two, Drinking History has got you covered. Falling somewhere between a ghost tour and a bar crawl, the Hidden Bars and Creepy Tales Tour puts a chill down your spine and a drink in your hand.

You’ll head to Melbourne’s first graveyard and hear the terrifying tale of the man who may or may not be Jack The Ripper Himself. In true Drinking History Fashion, education is mixed with libation as you visit three hidden Melbourne bars, specially chosen by your guide.

Old Melbourne Ghost Tour

• 31 Oct 2022

We all know the trope of old Melbourne, a marvellous growing city with gardens galore. Yet, a closer examination reveals a second, much spookier side to the Melbourne of yesteryear. It’s this side of Melbourne’s history that the Old Melbourne Ghost Tour is all about.

Meet at Young & Jackson Hotel on Flinders Street, one of Melbourne’s most haunted locations, then you might meet the ghost of a murdered woman from the 19th century. You’ll then meander through the city, letting the spices of Chinatown transport you back to a time when the area was filled with the smoke of opium dens. If you’re lucky, you might make the acquaintance of Federici, the ghost of the Princess Theatre. Book through Lantern Ghost tours.

Old Melbourne Gaol Ghost Tour

Even older than Pentridge Prison, Old Melbourne Gaol has long been one of the city’s most feared sites. The prisoners may be long gone, but those in the know say their spirits have never left. Ned Kelly was hanged here back in 1880, so you can only imagine the supernatural energy that event must have left behind.

Old Melbourne Gaol is holding chilling night tours where you’ll see the gaol like you’ve never seen it before. 

Ghosts of the Old City Williamstown

• 30 Dec 2023

Did you know that Williamstown was actually Victoria’s original capital? A settlement that old is just bursting with eerie stories and scary spirits, especially when you’re on a lamplight tour.

This tour of Victoria’s most history-steeped seaport will take you through abandoned morgues and forgotten burial grounds, as well as streets once frequented by convicts and drunken sailors. These days though, these alleys are home to far more apparitions. Book via Lantern Ghost Tours .

Altona Homestead

The Altona Homestead was once home to the Langhorne family and the spirit of their colourful history is said to remain to this day. This building has seen no shortage of births and deaths, so it’s no surprise the homestead has ended up at the centre of countless paranormal investigations over the years.

This tour run by Lantern Ghost Tours explores the homestead itself and the grounds, and we advise you to steel your nerves before booking a spot.

How many have you ticked off?

101 things to do in Melbourne before you die

Take a look at our ultimate bucket list: 101 fun things to do in Melbourne, plus what makes the city great, from the food to the festivals and everything in between. 

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Acknowledgement of Country
• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Reviews policy
• Competition terms
• About the site
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Report an error
• Time Out Market

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

Man killed in cell fire at maximum-security Melbourne prison

Police are investigating the death of a man after a fire broke out in the cell of a maximum-security prison.

Neo-Nazis’ courtroom win over attack

Controversial second injecting room axed

Driver details horror school bus crash: court

An investigation is under way into the death of a man at a prison in Melbourne's west overnight after a fire broke out in one of the cells.

Police were told the 22-year-old was found unconscious shortly before 9pm after a fire at the Metropolitan Remand Centre in Ravenhall.

Despite attempts by paramedics to revive the man, he died at the scene.

Victoria Police said Brimbank Crime Investigation Unit detectives had attended the prison and the investigation was ongoing.

Located about 20km from Melbourne's CBD, the prison opened in 2006 and is a maximum-security remand facility.

The majority of its inmates are in holding awaiting outcomes to their court cases, waiting to be sentenced or awaiting appeals.

A riot at the centre in 2015 became the state’s largest ever after 400 prisoners attacked guards the day before a statewide smoking ban.

Two neo-Nazis involved in a group attack on “innocent” hikers have had a big courtroom win after prosecutors argued their sentences were inadequate.

Long-running and controversial plans for a supervised injecting room in an Australian capital CBD have been dumped.

A driver injured when his school bus rolled near Melbourne has shared how he pulled children out of the wreck, as the truckie accused of causing the crash faces court.

BOOK HERE →

BOOK HERE  →

Night Tours

PrisonBreak Explorers

Tour packages.

B-Division & H-Division Combined Tours

Dinner & Night Tour

Lunch & H-Division Tour

Gift vouchers available.

Purchase Gift Cards here for B-Division, H-Division and Night Tours.