Fremantle Prison

Overview

Fremantle Prison is a UNESCO World Heritage–listed site and one of eleven convict-built structures recognised as part of the Australian Convict Sites listing. Built by convict labour between 1851 and 1859, it operated as a maximum-security prison until 1991.

Highlights

• Torchlight Tour: A dramatic after-dark tour through the cell blocks, workshops, and gallows by candlelight.
• Tunnels Tour: Descend below the prison into the network of hand-hewn tunnels and underground lake via ladder and boat.
• Convict Art: Remarkable cell-wall artwork and inscriptions left by prisoners over 140 years.

History

Commissioned during Western Australia's convict era, the prison held many notable prisoners including Moondyne Joe, the colony's most famous bushranger. After closure in 1991, it was extensively restored and inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2010.

Visitor Tips

• Book ahead: Tunnels Tours sell out quickly, especially in school holidays.
• Ticket price: From $25 for the Doing Time Tour; Tunnels Tour from $70.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours per tour.