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Discovery Centre

Asylum for the criminally insane.

The best way to see and understand J Ward is to join one of the regularly conducted guided tours. Bookings can be made online.

Adults $17, concession $15, under 16 $5, under 5 free. Concession applies to Aged Pensioners, Seniors Card holders and pre-booked groups of ten or more. Tickets can be purchased online (below) or by cash or card on the day.

A normal tour will take 1-1.5 hours . Most of our guides will spend much longer than this with anybody who wants to hear more stories or who has questions to ask. It should be noted that the guides do not have access to records or have knowledge of former patients or medical procedures.

There is so much to see that no two tours are exactly the same. Each of the guides is knowledgable in the history of J Ward but each has a wealth of favourite true stories to tell.

You will see the place where murderers breathed their last. You will see where their bodies are buried in unconsecrated ground, supposedly in unmarked graves. You might hear the story of the notorious Garry Webb or of Bill Wallace who lived here for over sixty years and died in his 108th year. You might hear how the Chapel was built due to the efforts of William Watson Carr. You might hear of escapes or suicides or of twelve year olds incarcerated here.

You might hear none of these. There are so many stories in J Ward that people have been back four and even five times. Hours can be spent in the Museum reading early case histories and gazing in wonder at the equipment of the early days of the hospital and the arts and crafts of the patients.

Monday - Friday

10am and 1pm

Due to limited availability of the volunteer staff admission may not be possible after the tour has started.

Please ensure you bring a hat, some water and some sunscreen!

Saturday, Sunday and Victorian public and school holidays

10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm (except Christmas Day)

Group bookings

Bookings for groups of ten or more can be accommodated at practically any time. Bus tours, schools and clubs etc are all most welcome at J Ward. Although macabre in places the history of J Ward is generally not disturbing because of its simple truth. Many schools come here with each year's new class.

Accessibility

J Ward was built between 1859 and 1861 and disabled access was not considered. There are three main sets of stairs in the buildings.

The first is at the front door. An alternative entrance is available. Speak to the guide or phone the front desk on 5352 2703 for assistance.

There is a stairway to the upper level of the main cell block. Stairways lead to and from the underground kitchen and there are no alternative ways to get to these areas.

J Ward is a Tour Only site, so guides will do their best to give all visitors an interesting experience, keeping in mind these unavoidable restrictions.

A disabled toilet is available at J Ward.

Certified assistance dogs are welcome at J Ward.

There are no refunds for change of mind . You can change the date of your tour with a minimum of 24 hours notice. A new date must be chosen at the time of re-schedule. Your order is voided by non-attendance and late cancellation.

Book a J Ward tour online

Please note: the discovery centre does not include a tour of j ward. the discovery centre includes entry to j ward for the purpose of accessing archived records..

If you book into the Discovery Centre and intend to do a tour, you will be charged the difference in admission price upon arrival.

Adults $5, under 16 free. Tickets can be purchased online (below) or by cash or card on the day.

Unable to make it into the Discovery Centre? Email [email protected] with what you are looking for, and one of our friendly volunteers will be more than happy to assist you.

Saturdays and Sundays

11am - 2pm (except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day)

Due to limited availability of the volunteer staff admission may not be possible after 11am.

J Ward was built between 1859 and 1861 and disabled access was not considered. There are two main sets of stairs in the buildings.

There is a stairway to the Discovery Centre. An alternative accessibility option is able to be provided to ensure access to digitised and physical records is accessible to all.

Our volunteers will do their best to give all visitors an interesting experience, keeping in mind these unavoidable restrictions.

There are no refunds for change of mind . You can change the date of your visit with a minimum of 24 hours notice. A new date must be chosen at the time of re-schedule. Your order is voided by non-attendance and late cancellation.

Book online

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J Ward, Ararat’s Old Gaol and Lunatic Asylum

Things to do ararat , ararat , victoria.

Take a guided tour of J Ward, Ararat’s Old Gaol and Lunatic Asylum. Hear stories of murderers, ghosts and mistreatment of mental illness.

J Ward is two and a half hours from Melbourne, close to the Grampians and open daily for tours by passionate Friends of J Ward volunteers. More than 10,000 people visit each year.

Tours run at 10:00am, 11:00am, 1:00pm and 2:00pm each day with extra tours at 12:00pm and 3:00pm on Sundays and Victorian public and school holidays (except Christmas Day).

J Ward started its life as a goldfields prison in 1859. When the gold ran out in the mid 1880s the prison buildings were acquired by the Lunacy Department as a temporary housing for the Criminally Insane. The County Gaol then became a ward (J Ward) of the Ararat Lunatic Asylum where the most depraved and most dangerous men in Victoria were housed in horrific conditions under the highest security.

Disabled Assistance

Tour prices: adults $15, concession $13, under 16 $5

Nearby Things to Do

Ararat Asylums

J Ward, Ararat’s Old Gaol and Lunatic Asylum

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Dobie, Ararat

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Aradale Lunatic Asylum

Also in this location.

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Book your visit

Accessibility.

• Discovery Centre

Lunatic Asylum

Friends of J Ward volunteers conduct tours each Sunday and Wednesday at 10am . Group bookings can be made by special arrangement.

Due to the Health and Safety Policy of Melbourne Polytechnic all day tours of Aradale will be cancelled on a day of Total Fire Ban in the South West Fire District. If this eventuates, the Friends of J Ward will notify all online customers and also refund the cost of the ticket.

• Approximate duration: 2 hours
• Tours commence from the Grano Street entrance
• Due to the walking involved, parental discretion is advised when taking young children
• Accessibility – stairs, no wheelchairs
• Toilets – available during the tour
• Photos – yes
• Participants will gain a greater understanding of the history of Victorian Mental Health System.
• Please ensure you bring a hat, some water and some sunscreen!

Tickets can be purchased online (below), by cash or card on the day.

• Concession $18
• Child (16 and under) $5
• Family (2 adults, 2 children) $50

Group tours can be organised. The cost is $18 per head for minimum of 10 people.

There are no refunds for change of mind . You can change the date of your tour with a minimum of 24 hours notice. A new date must be chosen at the time of re-schedule. Your order is voided by non-attendance and late cancellation.

Discovery Centre - located at J Ward

Please note: the discovery centre does not include a tour of j ward. the discovery centre includes entry to j ward for the purpose of accessing archived records..

If you book into the Discovery Centre and intend to do a tour, you will be charged the difference in admission price upon arrival.

Adults $5, under 16 free. Tickets can be purchased online (below) or by cash or card on the day.

Tea, coffee and soft drink are included in the admission price.

Unable to make it into the Discovery Centre? Email [email protected] with what you are looking for, and one of our friendly volunteers will be more than happy to assist you.

Saturdays and Sundays

11am - 2pm (except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day)

Due to limited availability of the volunteer staff admission may not be possible after 11am.

J Ward was built between 1859 and 1861 and disabled access was not considered. There are two main sets of stairs in the buildings.

The first is at the front door. An alternative entrance is available. Speak to the guide or phone the front desk on 5352 2703 for assistance.

There is a stairway to the Discovery Centre. An alternative accessibility option is able to be provided to ensure access to digitised and physical records is accessible to all.

Our volunteers will do their best to give all visitors an interesting experience, keeping in mind these unavoidable restrictions.

A disabled toilet is available at J Ward.

Certified assistance dogs are welcome at J Ward.

There are no refunds for change of mind . You can change the date of your visit with a minimum of 24 hours notice. A new date must be chosen at the time of re-schedule. Your order is voided by non-attendance and late cancellation.

Book online

J Ward Museum Complex

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J Ward Lunatic Asylum Ghost Tour

As the moonlight casts eerie shadows over the looming stone walls of J Ward Lunatic Asylum, whispers of ghostly tales echo through the night. Visitors on the ghost tour are drawn into a world where the past seems to linger, and the line between reality and the supernatural blurs.

The air is thick with anticipation, and every creak and rustle seems to hold a hidden message from beyond. Join the journey into the unknown, where the spirits of the asylum’s past inhabitants await to share their untold stories with those brave enough to seek them out.

• Guided tour with live commentary and included food and drinks
• Hotel pickup and drop-off services provided for convenience
• Positive reviews with an overall rating of 4.5 stars based on 17 reviews
• Full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance for flexibility

Tour Details

Exploring the J Ward Lunatic Asylum Ghost Tour provides visitors with a unique and immersive experience led by a local guide, offering live commentary , complimentary food and drinks, and convenient hotel pickup and drop-off services.

The tour delves into the historical significance of J Ward, once a mental asylum that housed some of Victoria’s most notorious criminals and patients. Visitors have reported chilling paranormal encounters during the tour, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the experience.

The guide shares stories of the asylum’s past, including its transformation from a goldfields prison to a mental health facility. With a mix of history and ghostly tales, the J Ward Lunatic Asylum Ghost Tour offers a memorable and spine-tingling journey into the eerie past of this iconic location.

Visitors embarking on the J Ward Lunatic Asylum Ghost Tour can expect seamless logistics beginning with the designated meeting point on Girdlestone Street in Ararat, VIC 3377 , Australia. The tour commences at 08:00 PM and concludes at the same meeting location. For convenience, participants can enjoy a full refund if cancellations are made 24 hours prior to the tour.

• Tour timing : Begins at 08:00 PM
• Meeting location : Girdlestone Street, Ararat VIC 3377 , Australia
• Cancellation policy : Full refund available if canceled 24 hours before the tour

Customer Reviews

The J Ward Lunatic Asylum Ghost Tour has garnered a commendable overall rating of 4.5 stars from 17 reviews by Viator travelers, showcasing a range of experiences and feedback. Visitors have shared their encounters with the paranormal and insights provided by the tour guides. Here is a glimpse of the ratings and comments left by participants on the tour:

Additional Information

Amidst the array of details provided for the J Ward Lunatic Asylum Ghost Tour, prospective participants can access captivating traveler photos and reach out to the Viator Help Center for any inquiries they may have. For those intrigued by the paranormal encounters and historical significance of the asylum, the additional information adds depth to the experience.

Some key points to note include:

• Traveler photos available for viewing
• Viator Help Center for any questions
• Product code : 6024P6

These details, coupled with the tour’s historical significance and the potential for paranormal encounters, offer a well-rounded understanding for those considering this unique and thrilling adventure.

Booking Information

For those eager to secure their spot on the J Ward Lunatic Asylum Ghost Tour, booking can be easily done through the Viator website or app. The tour offers ticket availability for individuals or groups looking to explore the eerie halls of the asylum. Group discounts are available for those planning to experience this haunting adventure with friends or family. To make the booking process smoother, here is a simple breakdown of ticket options:

Common questions

Are there age restrictions for the j ward lunatic asylum ghost tour.

Age restrictions may apply for certain activities. Parental supervision might be required based on the nature of the tour. It’s advisable to check with the tour provider for specific guidelines regarding age limitations and supervision requirements.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

When attending a ghost tour, one can enhance the experience by dressing in costume suggestions or ghostly attire. Paranormal fashion or spooky dress can add an extra layer of fun and immersion to the supernatural adventure.

Are There Any Physical Requirements or Restrictions for Participants?

For the tour, there may be physical restrictions or health concerns to consider. Participants should check for any specific requirements to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. It’s important to prioritize safety and comfort during the activity.

How Long Does the Tour Last?

The tour duration varies based on the specific experiences offered, ranging from 1-3 hours. Participants may encounter paranormal activities or sightings during the tour. It’s important to be prepared for an immersive and potentially eerie adventure.

Is There a Maximum Group Size for the Tour?

For the tour experience and group dynamics , safety measures are crucial. Tour logistics like group size restrictions ensure a quality experience. Adhering to safety protocols, maximum group sizes are often set to enhance the tour’s overall quality.

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Don’t miss out on the spine-tingling experience of the J Ward Lunatic Asylum Ghost Tour.

With a knowledgeable guide, complimentary food and drinks, and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour offers a thrilling adventure for those seeking a paranormal encounter.

With rave reviews and transparent pricing, this tour is a must-do for anyone intrigued by the supernatural.

Book now and prepare to uncover the mysteries lurking within the haunted walls of J Ward.

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J Ward Museum Complex

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

J WARD MUSEUM COMPLEX: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• (0.31 mi) Acacia Caravan Park
• (0.30 mi) Ararat Colonial Lodge Motel
• (0.51 mi) Southern Cross Motor Inn
• (1.01 mi) Ararat Motor Inn
• (0.33 mi) Leopold Hotel
• (0.11 mi) Gardens Lake Cafe
• (0.30 mi) Foragers Cafe
• (0.39 mi) Fred & Bet's
• (0.32 mi) Ararat Noodle Bar
• (0.37 mi) The Ararat Hotel Cafe Bistro

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Awesome and interesting - J Ward Museum Complex

• South Pacific    
• Australia    
• Victoria    
• Grampians    
• Ararat    
• Ararat - Things to Do    
• J Ward Museum Complex

The J Ward Complex is one of the most disturbing places to see in Victoria, but it remains... read more

We did a tour of J ward with Nola. Such a fascinating tour and Nola was so knowledgeable. The fact... read more

Awesome and interesting

Loved our tour guide. He was a little, quietly spoken chap who had worked in the J Ward for years. He had known alot of the patients and the reasons they were there. It has a sad and disturbing history but we are better for knowing it. The place is run by volunteers and they have done an amazing job. Do your favour and visit J Ward if ever down that way.

Our visit to J Ward was incredible ! Our guide John was a wealth of knowledge who kept us entertained and well informed of the Bizzare life "lunatics" experienced behind the high blue stone walls following the footsteps of those never to exit its gates . There were numerous times I felt spooked by the baren cold cell walls and could not help wondering and wanting to unfold their secrets ! If the walks could talk !! Very eerie and sureal especially watching the dvd of the Inmates after the tour ... Well worth the visit

We did the hourly tour and had Doug as our guide. He was superb. A very knowledgeable local that is very passionate about the J-ward. He regaled us with both J-Ward's histories as a gaol and a ward for the criminally insane. Doug also showed us some paranormal photos and shared some of his own personal 'spooky' experiences. It's definitely an interesting place that has a fascinating history full of colourful characters that once resided within its walls.

We visited J Ward on a whim one day while touring the Grampians and were very glad we did. The history lesson from the guide was fascinating and we really enjoyed the tour, more because we were grateful that our experiences in life have been so different from the ones experienced by the inmates here in the bad old days! The forbidding bluestone walls have an effect on the visitor as well. We talked about the tour for hours afterwards. Highly recommended.

We didn't really know what to expect from this tour but were so glad we took the time to visit. We had a wonderful guide who told us many stories about the history of the gaol and asylum, while walking us through. It was a gaol/asylum we had not heard of before, so everything about it was interesting. The tour and the condition of the gaol is a credit to the volunteers who 'man' it and care for it. An amazing but probably little known piece of Australian history.

The guide on this occasion let down the tour – he was unsure of some information & at times gave differing information as to what was on the information boards. Most people in the tour felt the same way so preferred to read the stories themselves. The tour ends with a short DVD showing some early footage from inside J Ward. Putting the tour guide aside, J Ward offers an introduction into the history of Ararat & the uses of J Ward in this time. It gives a good insight to the mental health system in Victoria over the years, some of which is quite disturbing. The Friends of J Ward volunteers have done a wonderful job in preserving these buildings, keeping the grounds immaculate & keeping the history of J Ward going. It’s a shame that there are limitations with doing the same at Aradale (day tours also run through Friends of J Ward). Check out the J Ward website for a list of tour times (http://www.jward.org.au/index.html).

Enter the Lunatic Asylum, Ghost Tour - JWard

Prepare yourself for an evening of horror and history as you are taken back in time and through the doors of the infamous J Ward Division of the Ararat Mental Hospital.

Description

• Two hour tour of the J Ward including access to the cells
• Professional, local guide
• Museum entry

The J Ward began as a prison for the goldfields in 1859 and when the gold ran out in the 1880s it was taken over by the Lunacy Department to house the criminally insane. Over the following century it was home to some of the most dangerous men in Victoria.You will even be able to enter their cells if you dare.

Experience Details

Fitness and experience.

• This is a 2 hour ghost tour and some areas are only accessible by steep stairs.
• Wheelchair access is limited
• You must be at least 12 years old to go on the late tour

What to Bring/Wear

• Please wear comfortable walking shoes
• Bring a torch, umbrella and your camera
• Don't forget your Adrenalin Booking Confirmation

What is Supplied

• 2 hour tour of the J Ward in the Ararat Mental Hospital
• Professional, local tour guide
• Access to the cells - if you dare!

More Information

PLEASE NOTE: To access J Ward venue you must have completed double COVID-19 Vaccination, show card and photo ID at the door.

Cancellation Policy

• Change your booking up to 48 hours before the start time of your experience
• Changes are not permitted within 48 hours of your experience
• Late arrivals or no shows may result in you forfeiting your experience

  Available Dates

Ararat (Melbourne)

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  J WARD LUNATIC ASYLUM

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J Ward Lunatic Asylum Ghost Tour

Ararat, vic.

• Desc ription
• Info rmation
• Reviews (0)

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

Explore the museum followed by a 2 hour 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, shower block, grave sites, West Wing, J Ward Block, exercise yards and grounds in search of the souls that still linger.

Learn of governors who have murdered inmates, prisoners buried in the grounds and the many souls trapped within these walls.

• 2-hour ghost tour
• Museum entrance

Meet at J Ward, Girdlestone Street, Ararat, Victoria. Allow 2.5 hours drive from Melbourne.

Tours run every Friday and Saturday nights at 8:00 pm.

• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024

Children must be aged 12-16 years and accompanied by a supervising adult ticket holder.

Tours run in all weather

Mainly indoors. Moderate walking, some steps.

Tickets are non refundable and not transferable to other persons or dates.

All prices, availability and tour and product information are subject to change without notification, and while every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the prices, availability and tour and product information displayed on this website they are not guaranteed to be accurate.

Ghost Tour Bookings is not a provider of tours, experiences or products and has no responsibility for any tours, experiences or products provided or not provided by the tour operator, supplier or any other party. The tour operators and suppliers provide services and products directly to customers.

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J Ward Museum Complex

Top ways to experience nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Also popular with travellers

J Ward Museum Complex - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

• (0.50 km) Acacia Caravan Park
• (0.48 km) Ararat Colonial Lodge Motel
• (0.82 km) Southern Cross Motor Inn
• (1.61 km) Ararat Motor Inn
• (0.53 km) Leopold Hotel
• (0.18 km) Gardens Lake Cafe
• (0.48 km) Foragers Cafe
• (0.62 km) Fred & Bet's
• (0.51 km) Ararat Noodle Bar
• (0.60 km) The Ararat Hotel Cafe Bistro