One of the city’s most arresting historic sites is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne’s Central Business District. Old Melbourne Gaol was built in the mid-1800s and operated until 1929 before being converted into a museum dedicated to sharing its rich stories of crime and punishment.

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Stepping inside Old Melbourne Gaol eerily feels like slipping back a century, surrounded by cold walls and narrow cells. It’s a must-visit for history buffs and curious travellers alike, stretching three levels with stories of some of Australia’s most infamous prisoners.

If you’re exploring Melbourne and looking for an atmospheric and immersive experience, Old Melbourne gaol is one of the most compelling stops to make. The museum is tightly curated and packed with spooky artifacts, stories and interactive experiences.

Old Melbourne Gaol
Old Melbourne Gaol
Old Melbourne Gaol

The Cellblock

Take a walk through the biggest drawcard of the Gaol, the three-level cellblock. This is the beating heart of the gaol where the bluestone walls and towering hall set the creepy mood. The cellblock was built for isolation, discipline and punishments, now allowing visitors to step inside individual cells which house their own mini-exhibits. Uncover the daily routines of the prisoners, stories of notorious criminals, early policing, and how crime was understood in the 1800s.

The Ned Kelly Exhibit

You can’t visit Old Melbourne Gaol without diving into the story of Australia’s most iconic outlaw, Ned Kelly. This is a substantial section of the museum which highlights Ned Kelly’s final days and offers some of the museum’s most popular features and information.

Collection of Death Masks

A well-known and discussed display is the Gaol’s collection of death masks – a number of plaster casts that were taken from executed prisoners. A memorable aspect of the visit, this highlighted experience provides ample information for history buffs.

The Gaol at Night

For those chasing something even spookier, night tours and ghost tours are available. These tours add an extra layer of atmosphere, allowing visitors to explore the Gaol in low light with added suspense.

A solid option for travellers into Australian history, crm stories and immersive museum experiences, Old Melbourne Gaol is packed with surprises and suspense. For more information, connect online at https://www.oldmelbournegaol.com.au/.