Description
A unique port city in Western Australia, serving as the port for major urban centre Perth and home to the iconic Fremantle Prison, Fremantle is famed for its Victorian architecture and unique maritime history – in which it was the primary destination for convicts when Australia was a British penal colony and the largest submarine base in the Southern Hemisphere during World War II. It was also an important trade centre during the Western Australia gold rushes of the early 20th century, something that makes the unique history waiting to be uncovered here even more interesting. Just a short drive into Perth, Fremantle is also home to stunning sandy beaches, the Cappuccino Strip (a hub of chic cafes, pubs, and restaurants), and the impressive Fremantle Markets – among so much more to enjoy.
Read more
Read less
Things to do
Fremantle Prison
Opened in 1855 as the primary destination for convicts transported from Britain before being used as a prison for local criminals through 1886 to 1991, Fremantle Prison is a World Heritage Site steeped in complicated histories of Australia’s colonial past and Fremantle’s developing society. Now a museum and landmark which can be toured, a visit here is an eye-opening experience.
The Round House
The second oldest European structure in Western Australia, this unique building was constructed with the intention of being a prison in 1831. Panopticon-inspired in its design, meaning all prisoners could be observed by one correctional officer, without actually knowing whether they were being watched or not, the Round House housed colonial and indigenous prisoners until 1886, and then became the residence of Fremantle Prison’s chief constable from 1900. It’s now open to the public and hosts numerous events throughout the year, giving visitors another unique insight into the early history of this city.
Oliver Hill Battery
An important defensive fortification on Rottnest Island, which is just a short ferry from Perth, Oliver Hill Battery is a unique World War II installment worth exploring. Here, alongside sandy dunes and a chance to enjoy the warm weather Western Australia enjoys, you’ll have the chance to explore the tunnels under the fortification, see a restored 9.2-inch artillery gun, and learn more about how an installment like this operated.