Built by convict labour in the 1850s, Fremantle Prison housed convicts, colonial prisoners, Aboriginal people, enemy aliens, prisoners of war and maximum-security detainees in its time. It finally closed for the purpose of holding prisoners in 1991 after a royal commission recomendation.
These days, the imposing limestone structure has transfrmed into an archive of history and memory. Come in for a range of tours, including a 90-minute after-dark guided tour every Wednesday and Friday evening. The torchlight turn about the grounds is scary but compelling, giving you a (dimly lit) glimpse of the kinds of horrors prisoners endured during their captivity. Otherwise, there are seasonal exhibitions collating personal accounts and photographs; art showcases; and more.
If you or one of your group turns peckish on your visit, a café also operates on site – and it promises to be a far cry from prison food.