Jailhouse Accommodation (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Jailhouse Accommodation?
What makes it 84% Solo-Friendly: The low-cost dorms, fast Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, and quirky prison setting give solo travellers budget beds, social contact, and city access without major comfort or safety drawbacks.
Positives:
- Historic setting: The hostel sits in a restored Gothic prison built in 1874.
- Central location: A 3-minute walk from The Court Theatre and 8 minutes to Hagley Park.
Challenges:
- Shared dorms: Dorm rooms can get noisy; bring earplugs or choose a private cell.
- Towel hire: Towels cost NZ$4; pack your own to save on fees.
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 solo trip?
- Stay in a real Gothic-style jail cell.
- Meet fellow travelers in the game room and lounge.
- Enjoy free high-speed Wi-Fi and a coffee bar.
- Explore Hagley Park and the Avon River nearby.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 days
Why 1-2 days visit duration is ideal for solo trip: One night for the jail stay and a day to explore nearby gardens and river trails.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Jailhouse Accommodation
Sleep in a real cell:
Book a bed in the Backpacker Dorm or a Double Cell to experience the Gothic prison design.
Tip: Reserve online early to secure the cheapest dorm beds from NZ$25.
Relax in the game room:
Play pool or darts next to historic prison displays.
Tip: Bring change for the arcade machines and invite fellow guests to join.
Stream in the Netflix lounge:
Unwind on comfy sofas with Netflix or Disney+ on the big screen.
Tip: Download shows at the hostel’s free fibre Wi-Fi before peak hours.
Stroll Hagley River Walk:
Walk or jog the 2.2 km flat loop beside the Avon River.
Tip: Start early in the morning for quiet paths and river views.
Take an Avon River punt tour:
Enjoy a 30-minute guided punt ride to learn city history from the water.
Tip: Book in advance; tours run hourly and cost NZ$42.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Jailhouse Accommodation
- Book early: Reserve your bed online at least a week ahead in peak season.
- Pack essentials: Bring a towel and lock for lockers to avoid onsite charges.
Reviews of Jailhouse Accommodation
Rich Bell
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
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
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
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
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)?
In summer, join the free 1:30 pm Botanic Gardens tours (Oct–Apr). In winter, use the heated common areas and game room to stay warm.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Dorm bed (1 night) | NZD 25 |
| Coffee at jail café | NZD 4 |
| Punt tour | NZD 42 |
| Christchurch Tram hop-on/hop-off | NZD 40 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 111 |
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
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
+64 3 982 7777Explore Popular Things to Do
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