Old Castlemaine Gaol Tour

A fellow traveller had advised us to take a tour of the Old Castlemaine Gaol while staying in town. This was great advice and our tour commenced at 11 am when we met Christina at the Governor's Cafe (located at the Gaol) to begin our guided tour. Christina is an extremely enthusiastic historian of the Gaol and tells a number of stories about the fast growth of Castlemaine during the Gold rush and then the creation of the Gaol itself.

What a great knowledge of the place, it’s history and inmates.  She took us into cells, showed us where the hangings took place and took into areas used as workshops by male and female prisoners. Some conditions were quite horrific – especially the solitary confinement which was totally dark. You can walk around on your own but I highly recommend the guided tour - some area are locked when not on the tour. 

After our tour with Christina we enjoyed coffee and lunch at the cafe managed by Callum - Governor's Café which has outdoor and indoor seating. One of the indoor rooms has a supply of children’s toys and books and fireplaces for comfort during winter months. You can also organise functions in the old mess hall – what an interesting place.

We had a light lunch so we could enjoy some homemade goodies on offer at the Governor's Cafe - I have never seen a bigger piece of Chocolate Brownie (delicious).