Old Melbourne Gaol Tickets – Book Your Tickets Online
This website offers official tickets for this venue. Please note, however, that it is not the official website of the venue.
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Old Melbourne Gaol visit
Highlights
Experience the original jail with its unique architecture and multiple levels.
Discover the history of Ned Kelly, including his execution and death mask.
Explore exhibits about other notorious inmates and criminal history.
Learn about the experiences of women and children linked to the prison.
Enjoy a downloadable audio guide available in multiple languages.
Old Melbourne Gaol Tickets – Book Your Tickets Online
Discover the rich history of Victoria’s oldest surviving prison at the Old Melbourne Gaol, where notorious criminals like Ned Kelly were once held. Explore original bluestone cells, gallows, and engaging exhibitions that bring the past to life in Melbourne’s vibrant CBD. Plan your visit today and secure your tickets online to experience this unique cultural landmark. Whether you choose a general admission pass or an immersive guided tour, the Old Melbourne Gaol offers an unforgettable glimpse into Australia’s justice history.
About Old Melbourne Gaol
Why Visit Old Melbourne Gaol?
Timings
Opening Hours
Daily: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (hours may vary on select public holidays and for special events).
Last Entry
Recommended no later than 3:30 PM to allow enough time to explore the exhibits fully.
Best Times to Visit:
Weekday Mornings: Explore the historic cells and Ned Kelly exhibitions in a quieter setting before tour groups arrive.
Afternoons: Ideal for combining your Gaol visit with nearby Melbourne CBD attractions; catch late tours or special programs.
Address
- Address
- Directions
Things to Know Before Visiting Old Melbourne Gaol
The Gaol is open daily from 10am to 5pm, except on Christmas Day and Good Friday. Night tours operate on selected dates and require separate tickets.
Expect to spend a few hours exploring multiple levels and exhibits for a comprehensive experience.
Children under 5 enter free; age restrictions apply on certain tours and activities.
Guided tours are available for an additional fee and enhance the visit with detailed historical context.
The venue is located in Melbourne CBD, easily reachable by tram or train; nearby parking is limited.
Photography is allowed, but please respect the solemn nature of the site and refrain from disruptive behavior.
Old Melbourne Gaol – Facilities and Additional Information
- Old Melbourne Gaol – Facilities and Additional Information
- Souvenir Stores
- Special Events
Accessibility Facilities at Old Melbourne Gaol
For visually impaired visitors, the Old Melbourne Gaol provides tactile exhibits and detailed audio descriptions available through audio guides in English and Mandarin. These guides offer vivid narration of key displays and areas within the Gaol, enhancing the visitor experience. To access these services, visually impaired guests are encouraged to request the audio guide at the entry point or inquire in advance when booking tickets.
Visitors with physical disabilities can benefit from step-free access to most exhibition areas and specially designed pathways to navigate the historic site. Wheelchair access is supported at key points, including entrances and restrooms, with parking and drop-off zones nearby in the Melbourne CBD. Prior notice is recommended when booking tickets to ensure any necessary assistance or equipment is arranged promptly.
For those who are hearing impaired, captioned video presentations and written materials accompany many exhibits, providing clear and accessible information. Additionally, guided tours can be supplemented with printed transcripts or sign language interpretation upon request. Visitors wishing to use these services should notify the venue ahead of their visit to facilitate appropriate arrangements.
Which Ticket Should I Buy to Old Melbourne Gaol?
Interesting Facts about the Old Melbourne Gaol
The Old Melbourne Gaol is Victoria’s oldest surviving prison, operating from 1845 to 1924.
It housed both minor offenders and some of Victoria’s most dangerous criminals.
Ned Kelly, the infamous bushranger, spent his last months here before his execution in 1880.
A total of 133 prisoners were executed by hanging during its years of operation.
The gallows were relocated several times, with fixed gallows installed in 1864 below the octagon.
The youngest recorded prisoner was three-year-old Michael Crimmins, detained for disorderly conduct.
The Gaol’s design was influenced by Joshua Jebb, a British prison engineer, and was modeled on Pentonville Prison in London.
During World War II, the site briefly served as a military prison for AWOL soldiers.
In 1978, Ned Kelly’s skull was stolen, though DNA tests later showed it was not actually his.
Today, the site functions as part museum and is integrated with RMIT University buildings.
Visitors can also experience immersive tours, including prisoner processing simulations and historical storytelling.







