J Ward, Ararat's Old Gaol and Lunatic Asylum
Highlights
- Explore the chilling history of J Ward, where tales of murderers and ghosts come to life.
- Join passionate volunteers for guided tours, uncovering the dark past of Ararat's Old Gaol.
- Wander through the historic site, showcasing the transformation from goldfields prison to asylum.
- Enjoy convenient access with ample parking, making your visit to this haunting attraction effortless.
Take a guided tour of J Ward, Ararat’s Old Gaol and Lunatic Asylum. Hear stories of murderers, ghosts and mistreatment of mental illness.
J Ward is two and a half hours from Melbourne, close to the Grampians and open daily for tours by passionate Friends of J Ward volunteers. More than 10,000 people visit each year.
Tours run at 10:00am, and 1.00pm Monday to Friday: 10.00am 11:00am, 1:00pm and 2:00pm on Saturday and Sundays and Victorian public and school holidays (except Christmas Day).
J Ward started its life as a goldfields prison in 1859. When the gold ran out in the mid 1880s the prison buildings were acquired by the Lunacy Department as a temporary housing for the Criminally Insane. The County Gaol then became a ward (J Ward) of the Ararat Lunatic Asylum where the most depraved and most dangerous men in Victoria were housed in horrific conditions under the highest security.
Images and Video
Accreditations
- Australian Museums and Galleries Association
Features
Tags
Disabled access available, contact operator for details.
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