Fremantle Prison is one of Western Australia’s most fascinating and significant cultural attractions. The history of Fremantle Prison dates back to the early beginnings of Western Australia and its role in the development of this State is unparalleled. It is the largest convict built structure in Western Australia and the most intact convict establishment in the nation.
In 2010, Fremantle Prison became the first building in Western Australia to be included on the World Heritage list. Its inscription on the World Heritage list was part of a serial nomination with ten other Australian Convict Sites.
The site is also recognised on the National Heritage List and State Register of Heritage Places. It is classified by the National Trust and is part of the City of Fremantle's West End Conservation Area.
Decommissioned as a maximum-security gaol in 1991, the Prison was continuously used as a place of incarceration for almost 140 years. With death row, solitary cells and gallows, it is a monument to a system of punishment that is uncomfortably recent.
Since opening to the public in 1992, Fremantle Prison has developed into a successful tourist attraction and welcomes thousands of visitors through its gates each year.
Entry to the Gatehouse is free of charge and includes: the Convict Café, Gift Shop, Prison Gallery, Convict Depot and Museum.
Without doubt, the highlight of a visit to the Prison is the entertaining tours conducted by experienced tour guides who bring the rich folklore and stories of the Prison to life. With a choice of intriguing day tours, spine-chilling torchlight tours and ‘extreme heritage’ tunnels tour adventures, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
