Adelaide Gaol, SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Airing Date: Aug 2nd, 2004
The Adelaide Gaol is a B&B with a difference. The gaol was opened in 1841 and closed in 1988. What you see there today is virtually how it was when the prisoners left the gaol - so now guests can experience what it's like to spend a night in the Big House.
During the 147 years the gaol was operating more then 300,000 men and women did time, and there are plenty of stories about how the prisoners entertained themselves. One day one of the women got up on the landing and did a strip show for the all the prisoners in the yard!
'A' wing was home to the very worst inmates, and is said to be the most haunted part of the gaol. This is due to the 21 hangings which occurred in this area, and ghostly sightings have been recorded.
Elizabeth Woolcock wasn't a prisoner in the 'A' wing, but it's thought she is one of the ghosts haunting the gaol. In 1873, she was found guilty of poisoning her husband and was sentenced to death. Elizabeth was the first and only woman to be hanged in South Australia. Based on the evidence given, a retrial was held this year, at which poor Elizabeth was found not guilty!
Visitors can join a two hour guided tour round the gaol, including the cell blocks, surgery, exercise yards and the hanging tower. The visitor centre also includes a museum housing an interesting array of artefacts dating back to the gaol's early years.
Sleepovers are available for groups of 15 to 45 people. You can stay in genuine prisoner dormitory accommodation with adjacent cooking and dining facilities. You're also welcome to use the BBQ and enjoy outdoor eating within the perimeters of the gaol. A free night tour of the gaol is included in the cost.
If you'd prefer to have your own cell, you can stay with all the comforts of home and a sumptuous breakfast in the morning. BBQ facilities are available along with free parking, shaded picnic areas and conference facilities. To remember your stay pop into the Adelaide Gaol shop, which stocks a wide range of books and souvenirs.
The facts
Guided tours at the Adelaide Gaol run on Sundays and public holidays. Entry costs around $7 for adults and $4.50 for kids. You can also wander through the gaol during the week.
Accommodation at the Adelaide Gaol B&B costs $75 per person per night. This includes a tour of the gaol and breakfast.
Adelaide Gaol Bed and Breakfast
Tel: 08 8231 4062
Qantas flies to Adelaide with one way online prices starting at $141 from Sydney and $211 from Perth.
Qantas
Tel: 13 13 13
Prices correct at 02/08/04
