fbpx
Old Melbourne Gaol
Old Melbourne Gaol
Old Magistrate’s Court

City Watch House

From 1909 until 1994, the former City Watch House operated as Melbourne’s central custody centre or ‘holding place’ for people arrested and awaiting their court date. For almost a century, every person arrested in Melbourne was lodged in the City Watch House opposite the Russell Street Police Station. 

The Watch House was built in 1909 and its original interior is complete in every respect.

 

Pack headphones and be QR Code ready!

Entry to the City Watch House includes access to QR codes which are scattered throughout the building.

To enjoy the trail, make sure you bring your own smart device with a functioning camera or reader app to scan the QR Codes located around the Watch House. We also recommend headphones so you can be fully immersed.

  • Old Melbourne Gaol
    377 Russell Street
    Melbourne VIC 3000
    03 9656 9889
    bookings@nattrust.com.au

    • We acknowledge the Wurundjeri Woiwurrung people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which the Old Melbourne Gaol is located. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters and communities.

    Copyright 2024. National Trust of Australia – Victoria. All Rights Reserved. All images copyright National Trust unless otherwise stated. Website by The Mighty Wonton