Established in 1850, as a penal stockade, the prison was largely constructed in the period 1858–64, Pentridge was the largest prison complex constructed in Victoria in the 19th century and operated as the central establishment in the wider prison system, which included the Melbourne Gaol, from the early 1860s.
The complex of buildings, which remain on site, demonstrate a number of phases in the development of the penal system, including the ‘separate system’, which dominated penology in Victoria in the 19th century.
The 19th century prison buildings at Pentridge have a monumental scale and austere style, expressive of the requirements of containment and order. The front entrance gate was designed like a medieval fortification. Constructed from ashlar bluestone, much of it quarried on site, the building was imposing and grim – intimidating in scope and severe in purpose.
Now open for tours, visitors will be able to explore the former H Division.
H-Division Tour: Thursday – Sunday
Adult: $38
Concession: $35
Adult: $28
H-Division Night Tour: Thursday – Saturday
Adult: $45
Concession: $40
The Night Watch: Saturdays
Adult: $45
Concession: $40
Prisonbreak explorers 2 Family Tour: Sundays
Adult: $25
Child: $20
Family (2A + 2C): $80
$10 Per Extra Child
FREE for NTV Members
1 Champ Street, Coburg VIC 3058
Wurundjeri Country
Closed:
Good Friday and Christmas Day.
