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Monument · Fremantle, Austrália Ocidental
Round House
Former 1831 gaol, twelve-sided, the oldest public building in Western Australia, atop Arthur Head with views over the harbour and a cannon that is fired daily.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Round House
The Round House was built between 1830 and 1831, shortly after the founding of the Swan River colony, and is the oldest public building in Western Australia still standing. The twelve-sided gaol, with cells around a central yard, sits atop the Arthur Head promontory at the end of High Street, facing the sea.
After it ceased to be a jail, the building served as a police station and a family home. Today it is a small museum run by volunteers, who tell the story of the colony and also the story of the Aboriginal people imprisoned there before being taken to Rottnest Island.
Every day in the early afternoon, volunteers fire a signal cannon and lower the time ball, as was done to set ship clocks. Beneath the promontory runs the Whalers' Tunnel, opened in 1837, which leads to Bathers Beach.
A small donation is requested at the entrance.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
30 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
In the early afternoon to see the cannon firing. At late afternoon the view of the harbour and Bathers Beach is nice.
How to get there
On foot from Fremantle station, about 10 minutes along High Street in the historic centre.
Tip
Walk down the Whalers' Tunnel to Bathers Beach after the visit.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Round House
What is the Round House?
An old twelve-sided gaol from 1831, the oldest public building in Western Australia.
When is the cannon fired?
Every day in the early afternoon, weather permitting. Check the time locally.
Is there an entry fee for the Round House?
A small donation is requested at the entrance.