Discover what life was really like for British convicts and notorious Australian prisoners during this prison’s 130-year history.
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.
