Richmond Gaol Tasmania
Australia's oldest intact gaol, built in 1825, offering a powerful glimpse into convict life and history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Richmond Gaol Tasmania
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Australia's oldest intact gaol, built in 1825, offering a powerful glimpse into convict life and history. 
"A must-visit piece of Australian history! Incredible to think this place was a private residence. "
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush; soak in the history and explore the town too.
🚶♀️ Explore the town
Combine your gaol visit with Richmond's historic bridge and church.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Gaol Cells
Inside Richmond Gaol
Step into the cells where convicts lived and worked. Feel the weight of history in this remarkably preserved site.
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Convict Stories
Throughout Richmond Gaol
Informative plaques detail the lives of men and women who passed through these walls.
Richmond Bridge
Adjacent to the Gaol
Australia's oldest convict-built stone bridge, a testament to early colonial engineering.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Step Back in Time
+1Beyond the Bars
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush; soak in the history and explore the town too.
🚶♀️ Explore the town
Combine your gaol visit with Richmond's historic bridge and church.
👻 Haunted history
Some visitors report eerie feelings; embrace the stories!
🥧 Snack nearby
A great pie and pastry shop is just outside the gaol.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow ample time
Don't rush; soak in the history and explore the town too.
🚶♀️ Explore the town
Combine your gaol visit with Richmond's historic bridge and church.
👻 Haunted history
Some visitors report eerie feelings; embrace the stories!
🥧 Snack nearby
A great pie and pastry shop is just outside the gaol.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Richmond Gaol's historical significance and excellent preservation, often highlighting the friendly and knowledgeable staff. While some find it a bit pricey for the experience, most agree it's a must-visit for its powerful glimpse into Tasmania's convict past and well-maintained grounds.
"It was truly excellent. Rod, the staff member, was incredibly friendly, professional, and full of helpful information. The goal is breathtaking, with stunning displays that really wow you, and the condition of the building is impressive. We've driven past many times and are so glad we finally stopped to explore. The informative plaques inside beautifully tell the stories of the men and women connected to this place. The gift shop is packed with a wide variety of products—you'll love browsing through it. I’m not posting too many pictures because you really need to experience it for yourself. Keep up the fantastic work maintaining this gorgeous building and its grounds!"
Matuka
"A must-visit piece of Australian history!
I’m so glad the public can now access Richmond Gaol—it’s incredible to think this place was a private residence for so long. The site is beautifully preserved, offering a powerful glimpse into Tasmania’s convict past.
The lady at the entrance was especially lovely and helpful—she shared some fascinating details about Richmond’s history that really enriched our time exploring the area.
There were also some great activities for my 8-year-old to do while we walked through the jail—she had fun spotting things and ticking them off her scavenger hunt, which made the visit even more enjoyable for her.
And just outside the jail, we found an excellent pie and pastry shop—perfect for a snack before or after your visit. Highly recommended stop if you’re in the area!"
Daniel Ryken
"The oldest existing Gaol in Australia and it has been well preserved. Would have preferred a tour guide or maybe an audio tour but still thought it was worthwhile."
Donna Day
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Richmond Gaol is about a 30-minute drive northeast of Hobart, Tasmania. You can rent a car or take a bus. Many visitors combine it with a day trip to the region.
Yes, there is parking available near the gaol and in the surrounding town of Richmond.
Many Tasmanian tours include Richmond Gaol as a stop, especially those focusing on convict history or day trips from Hobart.
Walking is ideal for exploring Richmond's historic streets, including the gaol, bridge, and church.
While public transport options exist to reach Richmond, they may be less frequent. Driving or joining a tour is often more convenient.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply for entry to Richmond Gaol. Prices can vary, so it's best to check their official website or inquire upon arrival. Some visitors found it a bit pricey for the experience.
Richmond Gaol typically operates during daylight hours, but it's advisable to check their current opening times before your visit, as they can change seasonally.
Booking in advance is generally not required for individuals, but it's always a good idea for larger groups or during peak tourist seasons.
While formal guided tours might not always be available, the staff are very friendly and knowledgeable, offering insights. Informative plaques also provide details.
Information on discount codes is not widely available. It's best to check directly with the attraction or look for package deals if visiting multiple historic sites.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic cells, holding rooms, and yards, and learn about convict life through informative displays and staff interactions. +1
Yes, there are activities like scavenger hunts that can engage children, making the visit more enjoyable for them.
A visit can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your interest in history and whether you explore the surrounding town.
Many visitors report an eerie atmosphere and some have shared stories of unusual experiences, adding a layer of intrigue to the visit.
The gaol is impressively well-preserved, offering a powerful glimpse into Tasmania's convict past.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside Richmond Gaol, but it's always good to check for any specific restrictions. Some visitors choose not to post many photos to encourage others to experience it firsthand.
The historic cells, the exterior architecture, and the surrounding convict-built structures offer great photographic opportunities.
Yes, the Richmond Bridge is a picturesque landmark and a popular spot for photos, especially with the gaol in the background.
Lighting inside the gaol can be dim due to the historic nature of the building. Consider using a camera with good low-light performance or your phone's night mode.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historic sites and populated areas. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with a walk across the convict-built Richmond Bridge and perhaps a stop at a local bakery for a treat.
👻 History & Ghost Enthusiasts
Beyond the spectral, the gaol's historical significance as Australia's oldest intact prison is a major draw. Learning about the lives of the convicts through detailed plaques and staff anecdotes offers a powerful and often moving experience.
🚗 Day-Trippers from Hobart
It's often combined with visits to other historic sites in the area, such as the Richmond Bridge and St. John's Church, creating a rich historical itinerary. +1 The town itself is charming and offers opportunities for a leisurely stroll and a bite to eat, perhaps at the well-regarded pie shop nearby. Allocate a few hours for the gaol and the town to make the most of your visit. Parking is generally available, making it a convenient excursion.
This trip provides a fascinating glimpse into Tasmania's convict era without requiring an overnight stay. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Convict Life
+1 Visitors can walk through the original cells, holding rooms, and yards, gaining a visceral understanding of the harsh conditions faced by those incarcerated. The site is remarkably well-preserved, allowing for an immersive experience that transports you back in time. The informative plaques scattered throughout the gaol are crucial for understanding the stories of the individuals who lived and worked within its walls. These narratives bring the cold stone to life, detailing the struggles, punishments, and daily routines of convicts.
Beyond the gaol itself, the surrounding town of Richmond is a treasure trove of convict-built heritage. The nearby Richmond Bridge, constructed by convicts in 1823, is Australia's oldest stone bridge still in use.
+1 St. John's Church, also with convict involvement in its construction, adds to the historical ambiance of the area. Exploring these sites together provides a comprehensive picture of life in early colonial Tasmania. Visiting Richmond Gaol: What Travelers Say
However, some visitors have expressed a desire for more structured tours, such as guided or audio tours, to deepen their understanding of the site.
For families, the gaol offers engaging elements like scavenger hunts that can keep younger visitors entertained.
Social
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