Trial Bay Gaol is a fascinating historical landmark located in South West Rocks, Australia. This well-preserved site offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past, with great stories and information that bring the history of the gaol to life. It is a highlight for tourists exploring the area. Notably, Trial Bay Gaol served various purposes over the years, from housing well-behaved prisoners to being used as an internment camp during World War I. The site holds significance for both indigenous heritage and failed public works projects. Alongside the gaol, visitors can enjoy the beautiful beach and park nearby, providing a picturesque backdrop to the experience. The site features a mini-museum and a delightful gift shop, allowing visitors to further immerse themselves in Australia's rich history. Trial Bay Gaol is a must-visit destination for those seeking a taste of Australian heritage and a deeper understanding of the nation's past.
Reviews
I took my 5year old son to explore Trial Bay Goal, and we had such a wonderful time, and we learnt so much about the history. The video was a little long for him to watch, but you can walk around and learn throughout. We finished with going to the bay for a play in the sand, beautiful water and surroundings.
What a wonderful venue to showcase sculptural artworks! A good variety of mixed media and a lot of metal sculptures were on display at 'Sculpture in the Gaol' in September 2023. Would've liked to have seen more clay sculptures. No trouble finding a parking spot and we were treated by the sight of a pod of whales just as we arrived.
A must see place of you are nearby! Wonderful jail with a lot of history. Highly recommend the Twilight Tour (book ahead online). It's 1.5 hour with a very knowledgeable guide. Really explains the full story behind the place. Lots of signs with photos bring the history to life.
Have been here several times over the years and still find something interesting on every visit.
The intro video (continuously running in the room in the right-hand corner after entering the entry gates) gives a great description of the gaol that puts everything into perspective as you walk around.
Signage around the site is pretty informative if you have time to read it. Don't forget to have a look at the museum on the way out (through the left hand door as you exit the gates). It's over 2 levels which may not be accessible to everyone as there is a narrow staircase.
A historical site that Id recommend to visit if in the area. Cool preserved areas with great stories behind them. The watchtower at the back of the site is a great vantage point for a photo.
Wow, what an incredible piece of history! So well preserved. Great stories and information to help imagine the people kept at the gaol. A highlight of our trip to South West Rocks.
Great family experience. There is a 10min intro video with the history. You can enter the cells and lock them etc, they make a great iron clashing sound. There are story boards everywhere as you go, I especially liked the bath house. Parking is direct out the front. Cost was $40 2A1C.
Interesting place - with remarkably no creepy vibes. A beautiful location, with interesting signage and a spectacular campsite below that is worth staying at. The jail was used intermittently as a reform/public works prison for good behaviour prisoners, to an internment camp for well-to-do German / other “enemies of the state” during WW1. Also site of indigenous significance (although not as much mentioned on that). And a failed breakwater project which sits as a reminder of failed public works projects from days of yore.
Location
73 Trial Bay Gaol Access Rd, Arakoon NSW 2431, Australia
Hours
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Monday
09:00 AM - 04:30 PM
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Tuesday
09:00 AM - 04:30 PM
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Wednesday
09:00 AM - 04:30 PM
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Thursday
09:00 AM - 04:30 PM
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Friday
09:00 AM - 04:30 PM
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Saturday
09:00 AM - 04:30 PM
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Sunday
09:00 AM - 04:30 PM
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