The Round House (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is The Round House?
What makes it 43% Baby-Friendly: Babies are allowed, but prams cannot climb the entry steps, no nursing or change rooms exist, and parents must carry the infant or stay outside on the lawn.
Positives:
- Free entry by donation: You can visit without a fixed fee and donate any amount.
- Volunteer guides: Staff share stories of the site’s history at no extra cost.
Challenges:
- No stroller access inside: Stone steps block prams; only the lawn and tunnel are flat.
- Limited baby facilities: No dedicated change room; accessible toilets have a fold-down table.
What is The Round House?
- A circular limestone edifice erected in 1831 as Western Australia’s first public gaol and execution site
- The oldest surviving public building in the state, featuring a panopticon-inspired layout of eight cells arranged around a central courtyard
- A Fremantle heritage landmark on Arthur Head Reserve that has served as a colonial prison, a holding facility for Indigenous people and curfew violators, and now a preserved historic site
What is so special about The Round House for with baby?
- Spacious lawn area perfect for babies to rest and play
- Daily 1 PM cannon firing you can watch from the lawn
- Flat tunnel path to Bathers Beach for a stroller-friendly beach walk
- Volunteer guides share local convict-era stories for free
- Modest entry donation keeps costs flexible for families
Note: The Round House is 43% Baby-Friendly. You may want to consider other Baby-Friendly Things to Do in Perth for a more suitable experience.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Allows time to explore the cells, watch the cannon firing, and stroll to the beach at a gentle pace with a baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities in The Round House
Arthur Head lawn:
Open grass area overlooking Bathers Beach and the harbour.
Tip: Stroller-friendly and perfect for baby to crawl or rest on a blanket.
Cannon firing at 1 PM:
Watch the daily cannon shot with the time-ball drop.
Tip: Catch it from the lawn to avoid stone steps; bring ear protection for baby.
Whalers Tunnel beach walk:
Short tunnel under the headland leads to Bathers Beach.
Tip: The path is flat and wide enough for a sturdy stroller.
Prison cell view:
See the eight original limestone cells through the windows.
Tip: Stay at the doorway; steps inside make full entry difficult with a pram.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Round House
- Use a baby carrier: Carry your baby to enter the building and move through narrow doorways.
- Arrive before cannon firing: Grab a lawn spot early and settle your baby before the 1 PM shot.
Reviews of The Round House
James Meyer
Only need 30-60mins to experience if you're short on time. Very interesting piece of history. Fantastic view from Arthur Head.
World Explorer
A nice high ground to overlook the ocean and the city. There is a small lookout platform in the back.
Steph
A very interesting historical site that used to function as a prison. I was lucky enough to catch the cannon firing, which was an unexpected and exciting highlight! The guides were friendly, knowledgeable, and made the experience even more engaging.
Carola Galletti
Historically significant building and if you get there at 1pm, they shoot the cannon! You can sign up inside the Round House to be the one to shoot it. The view is breathtaking!
Casandra TP
This is the oldest public building in WA, built in 1830 and was originally a goal. It is free to enter but a donation is expected and they use it to maintain the building. Inside there are volunteers who will answer any questions and were helpful and friendly. You can even take that tacky photo with your head in stocks. At 1.00pm they fire the cannon and lower the time ball so worth visiting aroun...
When is the best time to visit The Round House (Perth, Australia)?
In summer go early or late to avoid heat. In winter bring a windproof layer for the harbour breeze.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Suggested entry donation | AUD 5 |
| Audio tour app | AUD 15 |
| Café snacks | AUD 10 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 30 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of The Round House
Address: 15 Captains Ln, Fremantle WA 6160, Australia
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About The Round House
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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