If you thought Beechworth was just about an untouched gold rush streetscape, fabulous local produce and boutique shops & accommodation then think again!
'Beechworth Gaol Unlocked' reveals Beechworth's less well known history, one that's rich with tales of great escapes, betrayal and even romance – all within the walls of the gaol.
The site has been used as a place of incarceration since 1855, continuing until the closure of HM Beechworth Prison in 2004. The Gaol is now open to the public revealing a time capsule – allowing the buildings to tell their story.
Our costumed prison warder guides reveal the site's colourful past through three different 60 minute walking tours as you...
Gaoler's Tour
Take the place of remand prisoners for a welcome tour of the gaol
Get introduced to life in gaol in the 1860-70's
Climb one of the four guard towers and take in views over the gaol & Beechworth
Visit Ned Kelly's cell
Walk the condemned man's walk & hear about the eight men who dropped to their death on the gallows
Kelly Tour
Visit Ned Kelly's cell
Visit Ned's mothers cell
Enter the Gaol kitchen
See secret exercise yards
Hear about Kelly family inmates
Meet Ned's Executioneer
Night Time Turnkey's Tour
Experience the Gaol by night if you dare!
Join our in-character tour guides & visit cells protected by the spirit of lost souls, encounter ghostly shadows, solitary confinement cells, the gallows which saw the demise of 8 men & autopsy tent as well as other well hidden parts of the gaol.
Hear stories of the 4 executioneers who plied their trade here as you help our Gaoler lock down the Gaol for the night.
Gain access to areas not seen on other tours of the Gaol.