J Ward Lunatic Asylum Ghost Tour

J Ward Lunatic Asylum Ghost Tour

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About This Tour in Ballarat

Dare to enter the dark heart of Australia’s criminal past at J Ward Lunatic Asylum—the notorious home for the criminally insane. Once housing Victoria’s most dangerous men, including infamous figures like Chopper Read, Gary Webb, and William Wallace, this forbidding institution hides a legacy of madness, murder, and misery within its cold blue-stone walls. Creep through the governor’s private bathroom, stand beneath the hangman’s gallows, and feel the chill of the original kitchen and shower block where whispers of the past still echo. Venture through the haunted West Wing, the eerie J Ward Block, abandoned exercise yards, and shadowy grave sites—where prisoners lie buried beneath unmarked soil. This is not just a tour… it’s a descent into Australia’s most haunted asylum, where the line between the living and the dead is terrifyingly thin.

Why Visit Ballarat?

Ballarat, Australia offers a wealth of attractions, cultural experiences, and activities for visitors. From historic landmarks to modern attractions, Ballarat provides an unforgettable travel experience with something to discover around every corner. Explore local cuisine, discover unique culture, and create lasting memories in this remarkable destination.

Getting to Ballarat

You can reach Ballarat, Australia by air, train, or road depending on your starting location. From the airport, you can take airport shuttles, taxis, rideshare services, or public transportation to reach the city center. Rental cars are also popular for exploring the surrounding areas.

What's Included

  • Live commentary
  • Local guide

What's Not Included

  • Food and drinks
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Additional Information

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Minimum age is 12 years
  • Children 12 and over must be accompanied by a supervising adult ticket holder
  • Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended
  • The 2-hour tour is mostly indoors with moderate walking and some steps
  • Tours take place in wet weather; in the case of extreme weather, the local tour operator will contact you directly to offer alternative options

Customer Reviews

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Meeting and Pickup

Meeting Point

Visit Australia's home to the criminally insane, J Ward Lunatic Asylum

Please meet at JWard Old Gaol , Girdlestone Street Ararat Victoria

End Point

Please meet at JWard Old Gaol , Girdlestone Street Ararat Victoria

Pickup Information

Pickup Option: All travelers must meet at start point

Itinerary

Tour Itinerary

Visit Australia's home to the criminally insane, J Ward Lunatic Asylum 2 hours

Visit Australia's home to the criminally insane, J Ward Lunatic Asylum. Explore the museum followed by a ghost tour of the home of notorious criminals including Chopper Read, Gary Webb and William Wallace. Explore the governor's bathroom, hangman's gallows, original kitchen, showerblock, grave sites, West Wing, J Ward Block, exercise yards and grounds in search of the souls that still linger. Learn of governors whose spirits are still lurking, prisoners buried in the grounds and the many souls trapped within these walls.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cancellation policy?

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

How do I book this tour?

Click the "Book Now" button on this page to complete your reservation through Viator's secure booking platform. You'll receive instant confirmation via email.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?

Please check the age requirements and physical fitness level requirements listed in the tour details above. Some tours may have age restrictions or require a certain level of physical fitness.

Book Your Experience

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