Come on a guided tour to hear stories about law and order in Guildford. The Colonial Gaol was built in stages between 1841 and 1867. It was originally a two-cell lock-up. A Magistrate’s room was added in 1853. In 1868 more cells, and an exercise yard were built. Demolition of some parts of the Gaol started in 1917. Today there are only four cells left.
Visit our museum in historic Guildford, a National Trust town.
Tours of the museum start at the Colonial Gaol. Then a glimpse inside Taylor’s Cottage, a quaint workman’s dwelling once the home of ex-convict Edward Taylor and his large family. Stroll around the prison exercise yard containing farming machinery and a blacksmith’s forge. The tour concludes at a 1920’s wash house, containing a copper, cement troughs, clothes wringer, laundry supplies and irons.
Where:
Meadow Street Guildford – right next door to the Swan Valley Visitors Centre
Tours:
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday
Time:
10AM to 2PM
Cost:
Adults – $5
Children 5-12 Years – $3
Children under 3 – FREE
Groups:
School and community groups must book tours in advance.
Walk in the footsteps of pioneers to see some beautiful houses and commercial buildings in Guildford, reflecting the town’s importance in Colonial times.
Walking tours can be arranged on request.
Day and Time: Sundays, from 10am to 12 noon.
Meeting point: Colonial Gaol on Meadow Street, next door to the Swan Valley Visitors Centre.
Wear comfortable shoes, bring a water bottle, and dress for weather conditions.