Old Melbourne Gaol was the site of many escapes throughout its history – from the cunning and clever, to the sometimes foolhardy and downright dangerous. 

From Ann Miniver-Davis who dressed as the Prison Governor’s wife, to Ronald Ryan who spent 6 hours chiselling a hole in the ceiling, the walls of this historic landmark echo with the stories of its many colourful residents who dared to make a break for freedom.  

During its 79 years of operation, there were more than 60 reported escapes from Old Melbourne Gaol, and several more from the former City Watch House which only closed its doors in 1994.    

In this reimagined outdoor tour, National Trust guides give a unique insight into what remains of Melbourne’s Historic Crime and Justice Precinct and tell the fascinating escape stories of some of the Gaol’s most cunning residents.