The Roundhouse Above
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Whalers Tunnel

4.6
·36 reviews·Fremantle, Australia

Step into Fremantle's past through the historic Whalers Tunnel, a 1837 passage crucial for the whaling industry, now near beautiful Bathers Beach.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for exploration

CrowdMedium
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The Roundhouse Above

Whalers Tunnel

Best Time

Daytime

Best light for exploration

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into Fremantle's past through the historic Whalers Tunnel, a 1837 passage crucial for the whaling industry, now near beautiful Bathers Beach.

4.6
(36 reviews)

"Very cool to walk through and lots of history. Nice beach next to it too."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Explore with Respect

Walk through the tunnel and appreciate its history. Avoid 'urbex' activities that could damage the site.

📚 Read the Plaques

Informative signs detail the tunnel's construction and historical significance.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Whalers Tunnel History

Whalers Tunnel History

Below the Round House

Step back in time through this 1837 tunnel, crucial for the whaling industry's access to Bathers Beach.

Bathers Beach Proximity

Bathers Beach Proximity

Adjacent to the tunnel exit

Enjoy the scenic Bathers Beach right after your historical tunnel exploration.

Informative Placards

Informative Placards

Inside the tunnel

Learn about the tunnel's construction and its role in Fremantle's whaling past.

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Planning Your Visit

Access & Legality

While some explore the Whalers Tunnel for its 'urbex' appeal, remember it's a historical site. Access is generally permitted, but be mindful of any posted restrictions. Respect the history and leave no trace.

History & Context

Built in 1837 by the Fremantle Whaling Company, this tunnel connected the town to Bathers Beach. Understanding its past enhances the experience, especially with informative placards on-site.

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
Best light for exploration
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

solo xplore:) #urbex #tunnelurbex #tunnelexploring #tunnels #tunnelsperth #urbexing #urbexin #urbanexploring #explore #urbexboy #exploring #perthtunnel #perth #fremantle #freo #underperth #urbanvibes #scary #haunted #creepy #eerievibe #creepytunnel #tunnelling #trainedprofessional
@zak._.perth
28.4K likes • 387.6K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore with Respect

Walk through the tunnel and appreciate its history. Avoid 'urbex' activities that could damage the site. TikTok+1

📚 Read the Plaques

Informative signs detail the tunnel's construction and historical significance. Instagram

Come with me to explore abandoned tunnels under Fremantle. #urbex #exploring #perth #perthurbex #urbexing #illegal #adrenaline #urbexworld #fyp #foryoupage #bando #abando #abandoned #tunnels #cave @Galatian1476 @davron
@blixi_urbex
4.8K likes • 68.1K views
Overheard in the Whalers Tunnel: "That's a bird..." "They're freaky!" "That's definitely a cuttlefish" "Humans?!" Observing Stone has seen hundreds walk through the Whalers Tunnel this weekend as kids, families and friends take a guess of which creature had those shapes and colours. The installation is a reflection of the native animals that once lived in and among the limestone you walk throu...
fremantlestreetartsfestival
5 likes • 698 views

🏖️ Combine with Beach Time

The tunnel is right by Bathers Beach, perfect for a combined historical and beach outing. Instagram

🐶 Dog-Friendly Access

Bring your furry friend along for the adventure to Bathers Beach nearby! Instagram

It’s days like these that remind me how lucky I am to have a job that lets me blend work with these mini-adventures in beautiful Freo. 🌊❤️🐶 #DogFriendlyFreo #BringYourDogToWork #BathersBeach #WhalersTunnel #DogAdventures #FremantleExplored #infreo @infreo
bordoodleswa
13 likes • 597 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Explore with Respect

Walk through the tunnel and appreciate its history. Avoid 'urbex' activities that could damage the site. TikTok+1

📚 Read the Plaques

Informative signs detail the tunnel's construction and historical significance. Instagram

🏖️ Combine with Beach Time

The tunnel is right by Bathers Beach, perfect for a combined historical and beach outing. Instagram

🐶 Dog-Friendly Access

Bring your furry friend along for the adventure to Bathers Beach nearby! Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(36 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Whalers Tunnel a cool and historical experience, appreciating its well-preserved state and informative placards. Its convenient location next to Bathers Beach is a significant draw, offering a pleasant combination of history and seaside enjoyment. Some note its brevity, but the historical context and nearby amenities make it a worthwhile stop.

"Very cool to walk through and lots of history. Nice beach next to it too

©DanaCully2025"

Dana

"An interesting experience. A small tunnel that connected two parts of Fremantle needed for the whaling industry. Well preserved with placards about the tunnel."

Sasha Hardman

"Great to come check it out"

Djay Bliztron

What People Like

Historical significance
Well-maintained
Near Bathers Beach

What People Dislike

Short duration

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Whalers Tunnel is located beneath the Round House and near Bathers Beach in Fremantle. It's easily accessible on foot from the Fremantle city center. Many visitors combine a visit with exploring the nearby Round House or enjoying Bathers Beach. Instagram+1

While direct parking at the tunnel is limited, there are several parking lots and street parking options available in Fremantle, particularly near Bathers Beach and the Round House. Instagram

Yes, Fremantle is well-served by public transport. You can take a train to Fremantle Station and then enjoy a pleasant walk to the tunnel and surrounding attractions. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Whalers Tunnel is generally free. It's a historical site open for exploration, though access might be restricted during special events. TikTok+1

Whalers Tunnel is typically accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to check local information or visit when the nearby Round House is open for context. Instagram

The tunnel is generally well-maintained and considered safe for walking through. However, some online content refers to it in an 'urbex' context, suggesting caution and respect for the historical site. TikTok+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside Whalers Tunnel, you'll find historical placards detailing its construction and purpose for the Fremantle Whaling Company. It's a short but historically significant walk. Instagram

Exploring Whalers Tunnel itself is a quick experience, usually taking just a few minutes to walk through. It's often combined with visits to the nearby Round House and Bathers Beach. Instagram

Yes, children can explore Whalers Tunnel. It's a safe and educational experience, especially when combined with the nearby beach and historical sites. Instagram+1

Photography is generally allowed in Whalers Tunnel. It offers a unique historical backdrop for your pictures. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the area around Whalers Tunnel, particularly near Bathers Beach and the Fremantle harbor, offers numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs with a variety of dining options. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The tunnel itself offers a unique historical perspective. The proximity to Bathers Beach also provides opportunities for scenic coastal photography. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Whalers Tunnel offers a brief but engaging historical experience for families. The short walk through the tunnel, combined with the informative placards, can spark curiosity about Fremantle's past. Instagram It's a great way to introduce children to local history in a tangible way. The proximity to Bathers Beach is a major plus, allowing for immediate fun in the sun and sand after exploring the tunnel. Instagram Consider visiting when the nearby Round House is also open for a more comprehensive historical outing. Remember to bring snacks and water, as dining options are a short walk away. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Urban Explorers

For history enthusiasts, Whalers Tunnel is a direct link to Fremantle's whaling industry heritage. The well-preserved structure and informative placards offer a glimpse into 19th-century operations. Instagram While some online content hints at 'urbex' exploration, it's crucial to approach the site with respect for its historical significance. TikTok+1 Combine your visit with the nearby Round House for a deeper dive into Fremantle's colonial past. The tunnel's accessibility makes it an easy addition to a walking tour of historic Fremantle.

🐶 Dog Owners

If you're traveling with your furry friend, Whalers Tunnel's location near Bathers Beach is a significant advantage. The beach is known for being dog-friendly, allowing your pet to enjoy the sand and sea. Instagram While dogs are not permitted inside the tunnel itself, the surrounding area provides ample space for them to explore. It's a great opportunity for a combined historical and recreational outing for you and your dog. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of Whalers Tunnel

The Whalers Tunnel is a fascinating piece of Fremantle's maritime past, constructed in 1837 by the Fremantle Whaling Company. Its primary purpose was to provide a direct and convenient link between the company's operations in the town and their facilities at Bathers Beach. This strategic tunnel allowed for the efficient transport of goods and resources, playing a vital role in the local whaling industry during that era. Instagram

Today, the tunnel stands as a well-preserved historical artifact. Informative placards line the walls, offering visitors insights into its construction, historical context, and the significance it held for Fremantle's early development. Walking through the tunnel offers a tangible connection to the lives and industries of the past, making it a compelling stop for history enthusiasts. Instagram

While some online content touches on the tunnel from an 'urban exploration' (urbex) perspective, it's important to remember its value as a historical site. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate its heritage and ensure it remains in good condition for future generations. The tunnel's accessibility and historical narrative make it a unique attraction in Fremantle. TikTok+1

Exploring Fremantle's Coastal Charm

Whalers Tunnel is perfectly situated to complement a visit to Bathers Beach, one of Fremantle's most popular coastal spots. Just a short walk from the tunnel's exit, Bathers Beach offers a beautiful stretch of sand, clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for a post-exploration stroll or swim. Instagram

The area around the tunnel and beach is also known for its dog-friendly nature, allowing visitors to bring their canine companions along for the adventure. This makes it a great spot for families and pet owners looking for an enjoyable outing. Instagram

Beyond the immediate vicinity, the tunnel's location provides easy access to other Fremantle attractions, including the historic Round House. This combination of historical exploration, beach relaxation, and pet-friendly spaces makes the Whalers Tunnel area a versatile and appealing destination for a variety of visitors. Instagram+1

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