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New Zealand/Things to Do in Christchurch, with kids

Jailhouse Accommodation (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Jailhouse Accommodation?

61%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 61% Kids-Friendly: A family room, arcade games, and free parking suit school-age kids, but no playground, shared showers, and a rule against children in dorms reduce ease and entertainment on site.

Google
Reviews4.5/ 5
(from 841 reviews)

Positives:

  • Unique Ambience: The Gothic-Revival cellblocks offer a one-of-a-kind stay kids will remember.
  • Family Amenities: Free WiFi, game room, Netflix lounges and self-catering kitchen cater to all ages.
  • Central Location: Walk to Hagley Park, Botanic Gardens and local playgrounds in under 10 minutes.

Challenges:

  • No Baby Cots: The hostel does not supply cots or high chairs; bring your own or contact ahead.
  • Shared Bathrooms: Families share bathroom facilities; expect waits during morning and evening peaks.
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🏖️ Explore Jailhouse Accommodation with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Jailhouse Accommodation. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Jailhouse Accommodation?

  • A hostel housed in a 19th-century Gothic Revival former prison in central Christchurch
  • Private "cell" rooms and shared dormitories preserve original stone walls, cell doors and vaulted ceilings
  • Communal facilities include a coffee bar, games room and a fully equipped guest kitchen, all housed within the historic prison interior

What is so special about Jailhouse Accommodation for with kids?

  1. Sleep in a real former jail cell for a fun family adventure
  2. Enjoy free game room, Netflix lounge and on-site cafe
  3. Use the guest kitchen to save on dining with kids
  4. Walk minutes to Margaret Mahy Playground and Hagley Park
  5. Affordable family rates and free stay for one child under 2

Recommended visit duration: 1-2 nights

Why 1-2 nights visit duration is ideal for with kids: 1–2 nights give families time to enjoy the unique rooms and nearby parks without rushing.

(View Jailhouse Accommodation on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Jailhouse Accommodation

Stay in a Family Room:

Sleep in an authentic former jail cell fitted with one double and two single beds.

Tip: Request a top-floor room for quieter nights away from the common areas.

Play in the Game Room:

Challenge each other at pool, darts, and arcade games in the hostel’s own recreation area.

Tip: Visit after breakfast to beat the after-school crowd.

Relax in the Netflix Lounge:

Curl up as a family to watch movies on large screens with free streaming services.

Tip: Bring your kids’ favorite snacks to make it a mini movie night.

Grab a Treat at the Coffee Shop:

Taste local pastries and barista-made coffee just steps from reception.

Tip: Order iced drinks in summer and hot chocolate for the kids on cooler days.

Cook in the Guest Kitchen:

Use the fully equipped kitchen to prepare family-friendly meals at your own pace.

Tip: Buy fresh produce at the Addington local market nearby to save on dining out.

Walk to Margaret Mahy Playground:

Let the kids explore slides, flying fox, and water play at New Zealand’s largest free playground.

Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid peak crowds and snag the best parking near the gate.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Jailhouse Accommodation

  1. Book Early: Reserve the Family Room in advance, especially during school holidays.
  2. Bring Basic Gear: Pack your own portable cot or booster seat to avoid extra rental hassles.
  3. Plan Park Visits: Visit nearby parks in the morning for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
🏖️ Tour Jailhouse Accommodation like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Jailhouse Accommodation. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Jailhouse Accommodation

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Rich Bell

Rich Bell

Nov 2025

Fantastic hostel! Has lots of character, very clean, good facilities and beds were comfortable. The app based key locks worked very well. As the rooms are former cells you don't get much room but it adds to the experience! The No 7 bus stops about 300m away and is a short ride from the city centre.

Justine Lapert

Justine Lapert

Nov 2025

We had a great stay at Jailhouse Accommodation in Christchurch. The staff were kind, helpful, and friendly. It’s honestly one of the cleanest hostel I’ve ever stayed in. The common areas were spacious, practical, really comfortable to use and not too busy. Everything went smoothly, and the two cats at the entrance were such a lovely bonus! We loved the fun cat-themed touches around the place. High...

Piet

Piet

Oct 2025

The accommodation was fantastic! I stayed here for 2.5 months and it was a really good stay. The hostel is clean, the staff is nice and the prison theme is really cool. If you want a special hostel experience, this should be your choice in Christchurch.

Greta Divander

Greta Divander

Oct 2025

Quite a long walk from the city, but if you don’t have anything against that I would recommend it! Nice kitchen and common areas, and the room’s are clean. Most of the staff stayed at the hostel as well, so we got the feeling that they were a had become a big friend group who were a little bit hard to talk to. Other than that it was a nice hostel for a good price!

maxime van strijp

maxime van strijp

Jul 2025

Really friendly staff! Such a cool and unique experience staying in a former jailhouse. It’s a bit outside the city center, but there are a few places to eat nearby. The kitchen is well-equipped, and the bathrooms are clean. There are two TV rooms, and you can also do your laundry here. I’d definitely recommend staying!

When is the best time to visit Jailhouse Accommodation (Christchurch, New Zealand)?

Summer (Dec–Feb) brings mild days perfect for park visits; in winter (Jun–Aug), pack warm layers and enjoy cozy indoor games.

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Explore These Activities

Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Family Room (per night)NZD 92
Coffee & Snacks (per day)NZD 30
Margaret Mahy PlaygroundNZD 0
Family Avon River punt tourNZD 130
Total EstimatedNZD 374

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Jailhouse Accommodation

Address: 338 Lincoln Road, Addington, Christchurch 8024, New Zealand

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About Jailhouse Accommodation

Opening Hours

Monday:Open 24 hours
Tuesday:Open 24 hours
Wednesday:Open 24 hours
Thursday:Open 24 hours
Friday:Open 24 hours
Saturday:Open 24 hours
Sunday:Open 24 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 Website

Phone Number

+64 3 982 7777

Average price

US$ 54
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Average price

US$ 54
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