Albany Convict Gaol and Museum

Albany Convict Gaol and Museum offers a fascinating look back to the era of convicts in the mid-1800s. Wander through the cell blocks reading the plaques about the colourful history of the gaol and gain an understanding of the difficulties experienced by the early settlers. Pay attention to the timber-lined cells which were used to house Aboriginal prisoners in the 1870s. They contain various carvings which are said to be Australia's oldest Aboriginal cell art. For the courageous, book yourself onto the night tour and keep an eye out for a ghost or two, who are said to haunt the gaol. The Albany Convict Gaol and Museum underwent an extensive restoration to return the buildings to their original appearance. It is now home to artefacts from the original settlers of Albany and the region's Aboriginal people, as well as relics from the First and Second World Wars. The museum is located in Albany, a 4.5-hour drive south of Perth. The historic coastal town offers a multitude of attractions, historical sites and a spectacular coastline to explore.