Adelaide Gaol

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●   #9 Rank
●   Museums
●   Museums

The Adelaide Gaol, with its weathered sandstone walls and stern architecture, commands attention and invites you to step back in time. Originally established in 1841, the Adelaide Gaol served as a place of punishment and incarceration for over a century. As you approach this formidable edifice, you first observe its thick walls and sturdy iron bars of tiny cells that encase countless individuals. The narrow corridors, dimly lit by flickering gas lamps, create an atmosphere heavy with the weight of past sorrows.


Today, it serves as a captivating museum, offering you a glimpse into the hardships, struggles, and triumphs of those who once called it home. Guided tours lead curious souls through the corridors of the past, unraveling the complex stories woven into the Gaol's very foundations. The prison's chapel, with its simple wooden pews and muted stained glass windows, provided solace to those seeking spiritual solace in their darkest hours.


How to explore Adelaide Gaol?

  • Take a guided tour of the Adelaide Gaol, immersing yourself in the rich history and captivating stories that unfold within its walls.
  • Explore the cellblocks, gaining a firsthand experience of the harsh living conditions endured by the prisoners of the past.
  • Visit the gallows, where public and private executions took place, and reflect upon the weighty consequences of one's actions.
  • Wander through the museum exhibits, delving deeper into the Gaol's past through photographs, artifacts, and interactive displays.
  • Attend special events and exhibitions held at the Gaol, offering unique perspectives on its history and significance.
  • Join a ghost tour, venturing into the eerie depths of the Gaol at night, listening to spine-chilling tales of paranormal encounters and unexplained phenomena.
  • Capture stunning photographs of the Gaol's striking architecture and atmospheric interiors, preserving its haunting beauty for posterity.
  • Attend educational programs and workshops, engaging in hands-on activities that shed light on the daily lives of prisoners and the workings of the Gaol.
  • Spend a moment of reflection in the Gaol's chapel, contemplating the resilience and redemption sought by those imprisoned within its walls.
  • Visit the gift shop for an array of historical souvenirs, books, and mementos related to the Gaol and its stories.
  • imageDuration Required
    3 hours

Address of Adelaide Gaol

Old Gaol 18 Gaol Rd, Adelaide, South Australia 5000 Australia

Opening & Closing time of Adelaide Gaol

  • Monday
    10:00-16:00
  • Tuesday
    10:00-16:00
  • Wednesday
    10:00-16:00
  • Thursday
    10:00-16:00
  • Friday
    10:00-16:00
  • Saturday
    10:00-16:00
  • Sunday
    10:00-16:00

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