The original Fremantle prison was built in the 1850s and housed prisoners transported from England and Ireland during Australia’s infamous convict era. By 1886, it has been permanently handed over to the colonial authorities allowing them to imprison locally-sentenced criminals. It finally closed its heavy doors for the last time in 1991, and has since been permanently preserved as a World Heritage Site. Today, visitors can tour the prison and explore cells, underground tunnels and even artwork created by inmates.The former prison is now home to a museum packed with historical artefacts. With its new status as a tourist attraction, there are several tours held here every day. Stroll through the main cell block where you can see the tiny living quarters within which prisoners were confined, as well as some of the conditions they had to endure. There are also experts on hand who are armed with knowledge and who can give a real insight in Fremantle Prison’s harsh past.The last Australian to ever face capital punishment was hanged here. Serial killer Eric Edgar Cooke was executed here 1964, before the practice was discontinued. The grisly place where this happened is on view to visitors along with the original gallows, which have been preserved. During your visit, take the Great Escapes Tour where your guide will recount tales of daring escapes, both successful and otherwise. When you look around, you’ll wonder how it would ever have been possible for anyone to even attempt to escape from this huge fortress.If you’re not averse to confined spaces, the Tunnel Tour gives a fascinating insight into the underground tunnels that provided the prison’s water supply. The tunnels were originally dug by convicts who had been sentenced to hard labour back in the 19th century. Above ground, take some time to follow the Prison Art Tour. The quality of some of the artwork produced by the prisoners is pretty impressive!The Fremantle Prison is located about 22 kilometres south of Perth. It is easily accessible by public transport, and open every day of the year except for Good Friday and Christmas Day.
Fremantle Prison Tours and Activities
Visit Fremantle Prison
Plan a trip to see Fremantle Prison
Novotel Perth Langley
Reviewed on 7 May 2024
Cruises & boat tours
See all 14 activitiesOpens in new tabDiscover Rottnest Island Day Tour from Perth & Fremantle
History & culture
See all 24 activitiesOpens in new tabDiscover Rottnest Island Day Tour from Perth & Fremantle
Tours & day trips
See all 69 activitiesOpens in new tabDiscover Rottnest Island Day Tour from Perth & Fremantle
Water activities
See all 4 activitiesOpens in new tabFrom Perth: Rottnest Island Ferry & Admission
Air, helicopter & balloon tours
See all 17 activitiesOpens in new tabMonkey Mia Dolphins & Shark Bay Air Tour From Perth
Reviews of Fremantle Prison
5/5 - Excellent
Fabulous do the under ground tour.
5/5 - Excellent
Tour guide Brett was excellent and witty
Popular places to visit
Fremantle Markets
During your visit to Perth, you can do some window-shopping at Fremantle Markets. Discover the lively bars in this walkable area or seek out the local tours.
Town Hall
You can find out about the history of Perth with a trip to Town Hall. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
St John's Anglican Church
You can find out about the history of Perth with a stop at St John's Anglican Church. Make time for the shops and local tours in this walkable area.
Esplanade Hotel
Find out about the history of Perth when you spend time at Esplanade Hotel. Make time for the shops and local tours in this walkable area.
University of Notre Dame Australia
Walk around the campus at University of Notre Dame Australia during your stay in Perth. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Fremantle Passenger Terminal
Explore the waterfront in Perth with a trip to Fremantle Passenger Terminal. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this walkable area.
Top Fremantle Prison Hotel & Accommodation Deals
Check availability on hotels close to Fremantle Prison
- Holidays and getaways similar to Fremantle Prison
- Are there hotels near Fremantle Prison?
- Hotels near popular Perth Attractions
- Expedia's Latest Trends
- Hotels near Scarborough Beach
- Hotels near Crown Perth
- Hotels near RAC Arena
- Hotels near Optus Stadium
- Hotels near Elizabeth Quay
- Hotels near Cottesloe Beach
- Hotels near Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre
- Hotels near Kings Park and Botanic Garden
- Hotels near University of Western Australia
- Hotels near Perth Zoo
- Hotels near Royal Perth Hospital
- Hotels near Fiona Stanley Hospital
- Hotels near Murray Street Mall
- Hotels near Perth Mint
- Hotels near Esplanade Hotel
- Hotels near Curtin University
- Hotels near St George's Terrace
- Hotels near Trigg Beach
- Hotels near Fremantle Passenger Terminal
- Hotels near Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital