Maitland City Council commercial and customer relations co-ordinator Martin Payne said the gaol offered three self-guided tours, each with a different perspective of the stories of life behind bars – the general audio tour, the escapes tour and, especially for the kids, the Snitch the Rat tour.

“Bring the whole family along and learn more about the gaol, the notorious criminals it once housed and daring escape attempts made throughout its 150 year history,” Mr Payne said. 

Self-guided tours are available every day during the holidays.

Each tour is about 90 minutes and there is no need to book in advance. All self-guided tours are $15 for adults and children throughout the school holidays. 

For those who want to explore Maitland Gaol with an experienced guide, the family-friendly Escapes Tour will operate at 11am on September 23, 25 and 30.

“The Escapes Tour provides a great opportunity to learn about the history and operation of the goal and explore the various stories behind some of the documented escape attempts,” Mr Payne said. 

“You will also hear about how the prisoners were treated through various eras of prison management and how the gaol has developed over the years.”

Booking is recommended for this 90-minute tour and can be made on 4936 6482, maitlandgaol.com.au or in person at the gaol. Guided tours are priced $20 for adults and children these holidays.

Maitland Gaol is open 9am to 5pm (last entry is 3.30pm) every day during during the holidays, including the long weekend.