The Round House (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is The Round House?
What makes it 70% Kids-Friendly: School-age children enjoy firing the cannon, posing in stocks, and exploring tunnels, yet parents must watch steep steps and there are no on-site toilets or cafés.
Positives:
- Interactive history: Kids can touch displays and act out roles in the courtyard.
- Open play space: The central lawn offers safe room for kids to run and play.
Challenges:
- Stone steps: Entrance and rooftop require climbing uneven stone steps.
- Limited shade: Few shaded spots on the lawn and rooftop during hot days.
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 kids?
- Walk through original 1831 prison cells and museum displays
- Join volunteer talks and fire the cannon at 1 PM
- Have fun in the stocks and learn convict-era stories
- Picnic on the lawn with harbour views and safe play space
- Explore the Whalers Tunnel to Bathers Beach for sand play
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 2-3 hour visit lets families explore the cells, join the cannon firing, and picnic without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in The Round House
Explore original prison cells:
Walk through eight limestone cells and see museum displays.
Tip: Encourage kids to count the cells and listen to convict stories.
Join a volunteer-led mini-talk:
Hear stories of early Fremantle life and the panopticon design.
Tip: Arrive 10 minutes early to get front-row spots for kids.
Watch the 1 PM cannon firing:
Hear the daily cannon fire and see the time-ball drop.
Tip: Email ahead to book one child to fire the cannon.
Pose in the wooden stocks:
Take a souvenir photo with your head and hands locked in the stocks.
Tip: Have kids wear bright hats to make photos pop.
Picnic on Arthur Head lawn:
Spread a blanket on the grass with harbour and beach views.
Tip: Pack snacks and bring a ball for kids to play after lunch.
Explore Whalers Tunnel & Bathers Beach:
Walk the 45 m tunnel under Arthur Head to a sandy beach.
Tip: Bring water shoes for rock-pool exploring and sand play.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Round House
- Book cannon slot early: Email at least a week in advance to reserve the child cannon firing slot.
- Download audio guide: Install the walking tour app before arrival to save time on-site.
- Pack a picnic: Prepare snacks to enjoy on Arthur Head lawn and avoid cafe lines.
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, visit early to avoid midday heat and bring sunscreen and hats. In winter, dress in layers as sea breezes can feel cool on the rooftop.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Optional entry donation (family) | AUD 20 |
| Audio tour app (family) | AUD 20 |
| On-street parking (2 hours) | AUD 10 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 50 |
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
+61 8 9336 689710 BEST nearby Activities
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