In Mount Gambier, Australia in 1866 a prison was opened to accommodate the criminal element back in the day, many offenses took place in the prison and who knows how many deaths have actually occurred on the property. The prison itself was finally closed in 1995, and sat vacant for a time before new owners bought the place and decided to make it into a bed and breakfast. That’s right you can stay inside the old prison and experience what it was like to sleep in a cell night after night. (Hopefully you will be able to get out when you choose to though.)
Luckily you are allowed to choose if you would like a cell room or a non-cell room. The Managers, Melissa and James work hard to accommodate all guests no matter the age group and they are both extremely knowledgeable when it comes to the history of the prison. Guests are also allowed access too many areas of the converted prison such as the lounge, library and the prison chapel. These rooms have been turned into common areas for all guests to use and mingle as the areas are equipped with sofas, internet and televisions.
Guests will also be able to have 24 hour access to the common kitchen areas and can store their food items in the communal refrigerator. The bed and breakfast furnishes tea, coffee, sugar and milk. Don’t worry about being bored in this prison though as there are three outside courtyard areas that often have either concerts or other live entertainment scheduled for guest enjoyment.
Also not to be missed are the Sports bar, beer garden, Cafe and meditation areas (some of which are not completed yet) and for those who are looking for a bit more excitement it has been rumored that the converted prison is haunted by many of the old prisoners who either died or were murdered there. So if you are looking for a little paranormal adventure you may just find it here. This unique bed and breakfast offers many activities to their guests and if you are there for only one night you are sure to be ready to book in for more time the next morning. The bed and breakfast also offers their services in hosting an event for you such as a birthday celebration or an anniversary party.
If your journeys take you too southern Australia be sure to look up Old Mount Gambier Gaol as a possible stop on your trip and enjoy wandering the old halls and when else will you have an opportunity to sleep in a jail cell? (Well we hope this is the only opportunity)
“Old Mount Gambier Gaol” Facebook.com
“Australia’s Old Mount Gambier Gaol” Hostelio.com