Fremantle Prison: A Unique Stay in History
Not everyone can say they went to jail without being arrested!
When I first learned about the opportunity to stay at Fremantle Prison, a place that uniquely combines history and adventure, I was immediately intrigued. The idea of spending a night in a place that housed some of Australia's most infamous criminals over 140 years was both thrilling and a bit unsettling. After all, a prison isn't the most conventional or comfortable setting. I wondered if it would feel oppressive or claustrophobic. Would I be able to sleep in such a place? These questions only added to the sense of adventure.
But after a bit of research and some nudging from friends, I decided to take the plunge and booked a stay at the Fremantle Prison YHA. As soon as I arrived and settled in, my initial reservations began to fade. I discovered something interesting and even calming about being in such a historic space. The energy of the prison hostel isn't oppressive or dark; it's thought-provoking and rich with history. The blend of old prison architecture with modern hostel amenities created an intriguing and comfortable environment.
And, in case you are wondering, this hostel is open to all travelers - backpackers, couples, seniors and families.
A Brief History of Fremantle Prison
Fremantle Prison's story began in 1855 when it was constructed using limestone quarried on-site. Initially, the prison was built to house convicts brought from Britain to help build the infrastructure of Western Australia. The prison's design was influenced by the prison systems of the time, with high walls, watchtowers, and heavy gates to keep prisoners in and the public out. For almost 140 years, the prison served as both a maximum-security prison and a place for transportation of prisoners to remote areas of Australia.
In addition to housing criminals, the Fremantle Prison also played a pivotal role in the development of Western Australia. Many of Fremantle's early buildings and roads were built by convict labor. The prison, also built by convicts, was integral to the colony's expansion in the region.
In the 20th century, Fremantle Prison became a site for high-profile inmates and some of Australia's most notorious criminals. The prison remained operational until 1991 when it was decommissioned after the government decided to close it down. In 1992, Fremantle Prison was opened to the public, and in 2010, it became a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its significance in Australian and convict history.
Location of Fremantle Prison
Fremantle Prison is located in Fremantle, a vibrant port city in the greater Perth metropolitan area. It's situated on The Terrace, a prime location close to the Fremantle city center. The prison is easily accessible via public transport, and it's just a short distance from Fremantle's popular attractions like the Fremantle Markets, the WA Maritime Museum, and Fremantle's lively café and arts scene. Plus, Fremantle is the port for cruise ships departing from the Perth area, making it a convenient choice for travelers.
Despite its historic past, Fremantle is a lively and modern city, making it a great base for exploring the surrounding area. However, even though the city has evolved into a trendy, hip destination, Fremantle Prison remains a powerful reminder of the past, standing tall amid the modernity around it.
The YHA Takes Over Part of the Prison
While Fremantle Prison was once home to hardened criminals, it has since been transformed into something quite different. The YHA (Youth Hostels Association) took over a portion of the prison in the mid-1990s and turned it into a unique hostel experience. This innovative use of a historical space is truly inspiring and adds a layer of fascination to the experience.
The conversion of the prison into a hostel happened gradually, with specific areas designated for hostel accommodation, while others remained dedicated to the public for history and guided tours. The YHA took over the part of the formerly women's prison, which was notably different from the men's section in terms of its layout and conditions. The women's prison was smaller and more isolated, adding to the unique atmosphere of the hostel.
Facilities at Fremantle Prison Hostel
As a hostel, Fremantle Prison YHA may not have the luxurious amenities of a five-star hotel, but it offers everything you need for a comfortable stay.
The hostel offers both dormitory-style and private rooms, and while the accommodations are basic, they are comfortable and clean, perfect for a backpacker or a history enthusiast looking for something different. The cleanliness and comfort of the rooms provide a reassuring sense of modernity amidst the historical setting. Some even retain the original cell doors, giving you a sense of what it might have been like for the prisoners who once occupied the cells.
The highlight of staying here is the immersive experience. The walls, corridors, and even the cell doors have a distinct charm—an authenticity that makes the history of the place feel alive. Plaques and murals adorn the common areas to highlight the history.
Facilities at the hostel include a communal kitchen, which is ideal for cooking your own meals if you want to save money or enjoy the experience of preparing food in a historic setting. There's also a lounge area to relax and meet other travelers.
Before I arrived, I was a little apprehensive about staying in such a historical and somewhat intimidating environment. But as I entered the hostel, it became clear that the experience was far from frightening. The staff at the hostel were friendly and helpful, and their passion for the history of the prison made the experience even more engaging. Plus, the hostel is equipped with modern security measures, ensuring your safety and peace of mind during your stay.
In addition, like other hostels I stayed recently, there are enforced quiet hours between 11pm and 7am making noise not a problem.
Nearby Fremantle Prison Tours
The most memorable part of staying at the hostel was its proximity to the prison. Exploring the nearby prison during the day was a highlight of my time in Fremantle. I opted for the "Behind the Bars" tour, which provided a deeper insight into the prison's dark history and took you through the old cells, gallows, and exercise yards. The eerie atmosphere, especially in the cells, made me imagine what life was like for the prisoners.
In addition to several day tours, night tours and ghost tours allow you to explore the prison under cover of darkness. I opted against this option since I don't think I would be able to sleep knowing about the paranormal activity within the prison walls.
If you do decide to take a tour, the tour guides take their job seriously and act as though they are prison guards. Each sector of the tour is unlocked as you enter and relocked once you move to the next section. There are several times the tour guide needs to ensure no one is left inside a section. Even though it is no longer a prison, the facility's interior is still kept under lock and key. Furthermore, you cannot go inside the jail without a guided tour.
Conclusion
Staying at Fremantle Prison Hostel was an experience I'll never forget. While I was initially unsure about staying in a former prison, I quickly discovered that the experience was far more enriching than I had imagined. The chance to sleep within the walls of a building that has witnessed so much history was truly unique, and the blend of comfort, history, and adventure made for a memorable stay.
So, if you're looking for something different, where history, culture, and adventure collide, a stay at this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is definitely worth considering.
For me, Fremantle Prison was more than just a quirky place to rest. It provided insight into a world most will never see.
What a remarkable place! So much history! And that cell is tiny! That's incredible to get a chance to see inside a facility like that, and get a sense of what it must have been like for those who once resided there. It really is like stepping back in time... 😎
Claustrophobic!