Adelaide Gaol Ghost Tour and Paranormal Investigation

If you’re seeking a night of chills mixed with a dash of history, the Adelaide Gaol Ghost Tour might just be your ticket. This two-hour experience promises a blend of spine-tingling tales, ghost-hunting activities, and insights into one of Australia’s oldest landmarks. But as with all ghost tours, your enjoyment will depend on what kind of experience you’re after.

We’re drawn to the knowledgeable guides, who share stories that feel both authentic and entertaining, and the chance to try out paranormal investigation tools—a real draw for those curious about spirits. On the flip side, some reviews suggest that the tour can feel rushed or more focused on history than actual ghost hunting, which is something to keep in mind if you’re hoping for extended paranormal activity.

This tour will suit anyone interested in history with a spooky twist, especially those who enjoy a mix of storytelling and hands-on ghostly experiences. If you’re a skeptic, you’ll still find the historic details interesting, but if you’re after intense supernatural encounters, manage expectations accordingly.

Key Points

• Two-hour experience combining history, ghost stories, and paranormal investigations
• Knowledgeable guides make the stories engaging and authentic
• Hands-on tools like dowsing rods and spirit boxes add an interactive element
• Historical insights into Adelaide’s past through stories of prisoners and notable figures
• Variable reviews highlight the tour’s strengths and areas for improvement
• Price point of $32.99 offers good value, especially considering the interactive aspects

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting at the Adelaide Gaol

Your ghostly adventure begins in Australia’s longest continuously operating gaol, a building that has watched over Adelaide since 1841. The tour offers an opportunity to walk around the historic site at night, with a knowledgeable guide sharing stories that bring the past to life.

You’ll hear about the ghost of Governor Ashton, whose body was notably dropped through a window, a tale that hints at the gaol’s dark and often tragic history. The link to Sister Mary MacKillop, a revered figure in Australian history, adds a surprising layer of depth, linking religious history with the prison’s stories.

Many visitors note that more than 12 spirits are believed to haunt the site, stemming from the 45 hangings and burial site known as Murderer’s Row. The stories here aren’t just ghostly legends—they’re rooted in the real, often brutal, lives of prisoners and the stark conditions they endured.

The Ghosts and Their Stories

One of the tour’s highlights is hearing about the spirit of South Australia’s most sadistic killer still lurking in the dark corners. The guide’s storytelling is generally praised for being informative and entertaining, creating a genuinely eerie atmosphere.

For instance, some reviews mention the spirit of Sister Mary MacKillop, adding a historical twist that enriches the experience. The legend of Governor Ashton’s ghost, along with tales of prisoners from the past, provides a vivid picture of life and death in this historic jail.

Paranormal Investigation and Equipment

What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to actively investigate paranormal activity. Guests are often given tools like dowsing rods, spirit boxes, or other devices to test for spirits. Several reviews highlight that using the equipment can be a crazy, but fun experience—with some claiming they made actual contact.

One guest shared that they connected with spirits using copper rods, even taking photos that purportedly captured faces of spirits. Others mention feeling presences or sensing spirits at specific spots in the jail, although some felt the activity was brief or inconsistent.

The Lockdown Experience

A unique element is the cell lockdown, where guests are locked inside a cell for a short period as part of the paranormal investigation. This hands-on activity is a favorite for many, offering a sense of genuine confinement and mystery. However, a few reviews mention feeling the activity was too brief or that the timing felt rushed.

Group Size and Atmosphere

The tour is capped at 25 travelers, which helps maintain a manageable group size for both storytelling and paranormal investigations. Some reviews note that larger groups can dilute the experience, especially when trying to use investigation tools or explore in smaller areas.

Weather and Accessibility

The tour runs in all weather conditions, so dressing appropriately is key, especially since parts of the tour happen outside at night. Travelers have mentioned the challenge of poor lighting outside and background noise from planes disrupting the atmosphere, which is worth considering if you’re sensitive to external disturbances.

What Travelers Say: The Real Scoop

The reviews offer a balanced view. Many guests rave about the guides’ knowledge, describing them as friendly, engaging, and well-informed. Several mention that the stories of prisoners and their backgrounds made the history come alive, adding depth beyond just ghost stories.

On the paranormal side, there’s enthusiasm for the tools and the moments of activity some experienced. A guest said, “We made some contact using the investigation tools,” and another called it an “awesome experience,” highlighting how some feel genuine spirits responded.

But not all reviews are glowing. Some found the tour disappointing or too historical, with little time for investigating. Comments like “too much talking and not enough ghost hunting” or “not enough time in cells” are common. Others felt the activity was too brief or that the rushed pace detracted from the experience.

A few guests also pointed out logistical issues such as poor lighting outside, background noises, or feeling a bit rushed at the end. These are worth considering if you’re eager for deep paranormal encounters or a leisurely exploration.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $32.99 per person, this tour offers quite good value, especially given the interactive elements and the chance to learn about Adelaide’s convict past. For those interested in history with a supernatural twist, the cost provides a reasonable way to explore both aspects in a single evening.

The guided storytelling is often highlighted as a strong point, with many reviews praising the entertaining, informative guides. The opportunity to use ghost-hunting devices adds a memorable, hands-on dimension that many find worthwhile.

However, if you’re primarily seeking intense paranormal activity or extended investigation time, you might find the experience a bit limited. Some reviews suggest that more time in investigation and smaller groups could enhance the experience, which could be a consideration when choosing this tour.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Dress warmly, especially if touring outside at night.
• Arrive early to avoid missing the start, as some guests have noted difficulty finding the meeting point or parking.
• Manage expectations: the focus is as much on history as on ghost hunting, and some parts may feel more like a history lecture than a paranormal investigation.
• Bring your own camera or phone to capture potential spirits or anomalies.
• Be prepared for some briefs of activity—not every group experiences dramatic ghost encounters.
• The tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly.
• Minimum age is 12 years, so it’s suitable for families with older children interested in ghost stories and history.

Final Thoughts

The Adelaide Gaol Ghost Tour offers a compelling mix of history, storytelling, and paranormal investigation wrapped into a two-hour evening adventure. Expect a well-informed guide sharing tales of prisoners, hangings, and spirits, with opportunities to actively engage using ghost-hunting equipment. The experience is ideal for those who enjoy learning about the past with a spooky twist and don’t mind a bit of a rushed pace or outdoor darkness.

While some reviews highlight brief investigation periods and rushed segments, many guests find the unique atmosphere and interactive element make it worthwhile. The tour’s affordable price point and small group size mean you’re likely to get an engaging and personal experience.

If you love ghost stories with a historical backdrop or are curious about paranormal activity, this tour will fit your interests well. However, if you’re after longer investigation sessions or a less hurried experience, you might want to look for tours with a focus more on the paranormal aspect.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the minimum age is 12 years, making it appropriate for older kids interested in history and ghost stories.

Do I need to prepare for weather conditions?
Yes, the tour occurs outdoors at night, so dress warmly and appropriately for all weather conditions, rain or shine.

Are paranormal investigation tools provided?
Guests are given tools such as dowsing rods and spirit boxes to facilitate ghost hunting activities.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately two hours from start to finish.

What is included in the price?
The ticket includes a guided tour with storytelling, paranormal investigation opportunities, and entry to the Adelaide Gaol.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The data doesn’t specify accessibility, but since parts of the tour are outdoors and involve walking, it’s best to inquire directly with Lantern Ghost Tours.

Are there any restrictions on group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to a maximum of 25 travelers, which helps keep the experience more personal.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with full refunds.

What should I bring?
Bring your own camera or phone for photos, dress warmly, and be prepared to participate actively.

Will I see or feel ghosts?
While some guests report feeling presences or making contact, paranormal activity varies by group and individual perception.

The Adelaide Gaol Ghost Tour is a solid choice for history buffs and ghost enthusiasts alike. It balances engaging storytelling with interactive investigation, all within a historic setting that’s undeniably atmospheric. For those who enjoy a touch of the supernatural paired with a glimpse into Adelaide’s convict past, this tour provides a memorable night out—just set your expectations for a fun, atmospheric, and occasionally spooky experience.