Fremantle Prison Tours and Activities

Photo provided by Tourism Western Australia
Fremantle Prison
Photo provided by Tourism Western Australia
Fremantle Prison
Fremantle Prison


The notorious prison where convicts were transported from Britain since the 1850s before housing local prisoners all the way up until 1991.

Built all the way back in the 1850s, Fremantle Prison has its origins as a gaol built to house convicts transported from England and Ireland. It was not until 1886 that it was handed over to local authorities for home-grown prisoners, with whom it remained until it closed over a century later in 1991. Today the building is a World Heritage Site, housing a museum containing all kinds of artifacts and artwork, and a great place to go and learn more about crime and punishment through history.

"Step inside and do time" with Fremantle Prison’s experienced guides on a range of fascinating tours, including Convict Prison, Behind Bars and True Crime. These Prison Day Tours highlight convict and prison life, daring escapes and colourful characters in tales laced with prison humour.

Visitors with a spirit for adventure can descend 20 metres (65 feet) below the prison to explore a 1 kilometre (0.6 mile) labyrinth of tunnels on foot and by boat on a Tunnels Tour or delve into the darker side of the prison's history at night on a spooky Torchlight Tour.

In addition to its guided tours Fremantle Prison also features an interpretive Visitor Centre, on-site cafe, award-winning Gift Shop and exhibitions in the Prison Gallery.

Located 22 kilometres (13 miles) south of Perth, Fremantle Prison can be reached via public transport. It is open year round except for Good Friday and Christmas Day, but it’s best to plan ahead and check the attraction’s website to find out more about all the tours on offer.

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Top Fremantle Prison Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges

Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges

4.5 out of 5
Cnr Marine Terrace and Essex St, Fremantle, WA
Esplanade Hotel Fremantle by Rydges
Warders Hotel by Garde, Fremantle

Warders Hotel by Garde, Fremantle

4.5 out of 5
19 Henderson St, Fremantle, WA
Warders Hotel by Garde, Fremantle
Quest Fremantle

Quest Fremantle

3.5 out of 5
8 Pakenham Street, Fremantle, WA
Quest Fremantle
Norfolk Hotel

Norfolk Hotel

3 out of 5
47 South Terrace, Fremantle, WA
Norfolk Hotel
Hougoumont Hotel

Hougoumont Hotel

4 out of 5
15 Bannister Street, Fremantle, WA
Hougoumont Hotel
Be. Fremantle

Be. Fremantle

4.5 out of 5
43 Mews Rd, Fremantle, WA
Be. Fremantle
YHA Fremantle Prison

YHA Fremantle Prison

1 out of 5
6A The Terrace, Fremantle, WA
YHA Fremantle Prison
Australia Hotel Fremantle

Australia Hotel Fremantle

2 out of 5
1 Beach St, Fremantle, WA
Australia Hotel Fremantle
New Haus Managed by Hougoumont

New Haus Managed by Hougoumont

3.5 out of 5
22 Bannister Street, Fremantle, WA
New Haus Managed by Hougoumont
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Fremantle Prison

Fremantle Prison offers a range of activities to enhance your visit, including exploring vibrant Fremantle Markets, enjoying live music at local venues, and embarking on the Escape Hunt experience for a thrilling adventure. The area is also perfect for leisurely walks, while its charming spots make it an ideal choice for intimate weddings. Don’t miss out on the unique shopping opportunities nearby to complete your Fremantle experience.

Shopping

Visit Fremantle Markets, a vibrant public market just 322m from Fremantle Prison, where you can find unique gifts and local crafts. If you're up for a drive, check out Claremont Quarter Shopping Centre, located 8.0km away, offering a mix of entertainment and family-friendly shopping.

Recreation

At HBF Stadium, engage in invigorating sports activities that energise your spirit. A short stroll to Fremantle Oval invites you to unwind amidst lush greenery, perfect for relaxation. For golf enthusiasts, the Royal Fremantle Golf Club offers a scenic outdoor experience to enjoy the sport in a tranquil setting.

Adventure

Explore the scenic Allen Park hiking trail, located 8.0km from Fremantle Prison, perfect for outdoor adventure. Embark on the Bushland Nature Trail, 12.9km away, for a serene experience amidst nature. The Kokoda Track Memorial Walk, also 12.9km from the prison, offers a reflective journey through beautiful landscapes.

Nightlife

In Fremantle, immerse yourself in the vibrant theatre scene with His Majesty's Theatre and Crown Theatre Perth, both offering captivating shows and a romantic atmosphere. Also, don't miss the Old Mill Theatre for a more intimate experience, all within a short drive from Fremantle Prison.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Fremantle Prison

When visiting Fremantle Prison, explore nearby attractions like the iconic prison itself and the historic Old Fremantle Prison. Enjoy the vibrant local culture and outdoor experiences at nearby beaches and urban parks. Don't miss the YHA Fremantle Prison for unique accommodation or the fascinating Fremantle Warders, who can share stories about the site's rich history. These offerings make for a memorable visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Cottesloe Beach: Enjoy the stunning sunset and relax on the golden sands of Cottesloe Beach, just 6.4km from Fremantle Prison. This iconic beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and indulging in beachside cafés, offering a quintessential Australian coastal experience.
  • Kings Park and Botanic Garden: Located 12.9km away, this expansive urban park is ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy breathtaking views of Perth's skyline and the Swan River, as well as diverse gardens and walking trails, immersing yourself in nature right in the city.
  • University of Western Australia: A historic college located 9.7km away, this university boasts stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Explore its cultural offerings, including galleries and museums, while soaking in the vibrant academic atmosphere.

Best time to go to Fremantle Prison

The best time to visit Fremantle Prison is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January77.5°F (25.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
February77.4°F (25.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
March73.8°F (23.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
April68.0°F (20.0°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May61.5°F (16.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
July55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
August56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
September58.6°F (14.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
October63.1°F (17.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November68.9°F (20.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
December74.3°F (23.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Fremantle Prison

To save on your trip to Fremantle Prison, consider visiting between June and August for lower accommodation prices, with Monday being the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly options, including Eco-certified hotels, and sort by price to snag the best deals. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities for added savings through package deals. Additionally, take advantage of Perth's public transport system for affordable travel around the area, and explore free activities such as local parks and historic sites to enjoy your holiday without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Fremantle Prison are June to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February and November to December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Fremantle Prison is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Fremantle Prison is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Fremantle Prison hotel stay with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.