Go directly to Gaol, half price on History Day

06 May 2025
3 min read

On Sunday 18 May, as part of South Australia’s History Festival, tickets to historic Adelaide Gaol are half price and there’s extra for all the family to learn and enjoy.

Adelaide Gaol is one of South Australia’s oldest buildings, full of fascinating tales and even a few ghosts. History Day at the gaol brings the History Festival’s 2025 theme of ‘Decisions’ to life through a self-guided tour, activities and informative talks, revealing how decisions shaped the lives of prisoners and guards.

True crime stories, eerie presences and fascinating relics

Located in the north-western corner of the Adelaide Parklands, Adelaide Gaol operated from 1841 to 1988. Its long history includes several stages of building, numerous notorious criminals and 45 hangings. The site is very popular with ghost hunters, many of whom report paranormal sightings of the gaol’s colourful historic characters.

Alongside the rich history of the gaol itself, archaeological digs have revealed evidence of earlier use of the site. You can view the excavations and many items discovered including First Australians tools and weapons, and relics from the camp site of South Australia’s first white settlers.

A father and child explore the Adelaide Gaol — Family-friendly fun and learning

Guest speaker talks

Entry on History Day includes admission to two special guest talks.

11:00am - Alice Neikirk of University of Newcastle presents ‘Pleading the Belly: Juries of Matrons and Pregnancy in Prison’, focusing on the story of inmate Elizabeth McGree.

1:00pm - author Alan Atkinson will discuss his latest book, The Trials of Billy Freeman, which tells the true tale of a child convict.

Additional special History Day talks on hangings, executions and the buildings will occur across the day and can be booked for a small additional fee.

Aerial view of Adelaide Gaol buildings in 1945 — Adelaide Gaol aerial view 1945 (State Library archive)

Enjoy some prison food

Hungry for more than history? There’ll be a sausage sizzle on the day as well as the gaol’s own Mugshots Café, serving hot and cold drinks, pastries, sandwiches and hotdogs.

Getting there

Due to construction of the new Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Gaol Road is currently closed. Access to the Adelaide Gaol is via Bonython Park, entering off Port Road, close to bus and tram stops. There’s a helpful map and video on the gaol’s website. Limited disability permit parking only will be available, so using public transport is highly recommended.

Book online now

Tickets for History Day at the Gaol, Sunday 18 May, 10:00am – 4:00pm: Adult $8.50, Concession $7.00, Child $5.25 (under 4 free). History Day at Adelaide Gaol is always popular and we recommend you book online to make entry easy.