Built in 1861, the Old Busselton Gaol is one of Busselton’s oldest buildings.

Wander through the cold, dark cell block and imagine being locked up behind one of these heavy wooden doors! On some occasions, inmates spent three to six months awaiting a travelling Magistrate.

The cells were all built with limestone block walls. After a number of escapes, Magistrate J Harris ordered that the cells be lined with Jarrah boards to prevent inmates digging their way to freedom.

Reflecting the time in which the goal was built, the cell at the end of the corridor (Cell 9) with the bars, wood-block floor and shackles was built for Aboriginal prisoners. Records show that Cell 9 was not used post 1940.

The enclosed area at the end of the corridor was used for exercise and toilets. Originally the Exercise Yard had no roof, which led to many escapes, which is why bars were installed.

Discover captivating true stories of prisoners and law enforcement officials in the audio-visual heritage interpretation on display within the cells.

Stories from the Cells features videos, audio stories, and interpretive signage to share true accounts of those who served time within.

Learn about crimes, notorious escapees, and the contrasting fates of convicts – one who became a respectable farmer and another who escaped from Fremantle Prison.

Free to enter.