First time visiting the J Ward Lunatic Asylum in Ararat, Victoria? This guide covers opening hours, ticket prices, parking, accessibility, and how to get there.
History and overview of J Ward Lunatic Asylum
J Ward, located in Ararat, Victoria, began life as the Ararat County Gaol in 1861.
In 1887, it was repurposed by the Lunacy Department to house Victoria’s “criminally insane”.
The facility remained in use until 1991 and today operates as a museum run by the Friends of J Ward.
On guided tours visitors can explore the main cell block, the exercise yard, the kitchen, the gallows and other sections — learning about both its prison and asylum history.
How to get to J Ward Lunatic Asylum
The address is 1–7 Girdlestone Street, Ararat, VIC 3377.
Transport options:
- By car: Ararat is about 2.5 hours’ drive from Melbourne via the Western Highway.
- Coach / Drop-off: There is coach parking and a car park on-site.
- Walking: The site is within walking distance of Ararat town centre.
Opening hours and ticket prices
Tours: Guided tours run daily. Tours depart at 10am and 1pm on weekdays, and 10am, 11am, 1pm and 2pm on Saturdays.
Ticket prices: Day tour prices: Adults A$17, Concession A$15, Ages 5–16 A$8, under-5s free.
There’s also a “Discovery Centre” option for A$5 (under 16s free) for those who wish to access archives but not take the full building tour.
Ghost tours: Paranormal / ghost tour experiences are offered by Lantern Ghost Tours and Ararat Asylums. Prices start at A$41 for a nighttime ghost-tour including museum access.
Parking and accessibility
Parking: There is a car park on-site, with coach-size vehicle access.
Accessibility: The building was constructed in the 1860s, so accessibility is limited.
There are three main sets of stairs in the building (front door, cell block, underground kitchen), which may not be accessible to everyone.
A disabled toilet is available and certified assistance dogs are welcome.
For more information, visit the J Ward website.
Best times to visit and tour tips
If you prefer smaller crowds, aim for weekday tours at 10am or 1pm.
Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for narrow stairways and old cell blocks. Guides are very knowledgeable and tend to share vivid stories — tour length is typically 1 to 1.5 hours.
If you’re interested in the paranormal side of J Ward, book ahead for ghost-tour nights (typically Fridays and Saturdays).
Nearby attractions to combine with J Ward
While in Ararat, you might also explore:
- Aradale Asylum: The nearby former asylum is open for tours, with links to J Ward’s history.
- Langi Morgala Museum: Local historical society museum in Ararat.
- The Grampians region: Use J Ward as part of a broader heritage and nature itinerary.
FAQ: Practical visitor information for J Ward
Can I take photos?
Yes — photography is generally permitted on tours, but always check with your guide if there are restricted areas.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes — children aged 5 and up are welcome on day tours. Under-5s go free, but check with tour staff.
How long does a tour take?
A typical guided tour lasts between 1 and 1.5 hours, depending on the guide and visitor questions.
Are there public toilets?
Yes – toilet facilities are available on-site, including a disabled-access toilet.
Can I book a ghost-tour?
Yes — there are evening ghost tours offered by Lantern Ghost Tours and Ararat Asylums, usually on weekends.
Is there wheelchair access?
Access is limited due to historic stairs; inform staff at booking and they’ll help you identify accessible areas.
Disclosure: This guide contains affiliate links. Book through them, and I earn a small commission.
More Victoria travel
Other Victoria travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- On the Ned Kelly Trail in Victoria’s High Country.
- Discovering Australia’s immigration history at the Bonegilla Migrant Experience.
- A series of wildlife encounters on the Great Ocean Road.
- Planning a visit to the Healesville Sanctuary.
- Why it’s worth visiting Cactus Country in Strathmerton.
- What to expect at Deep Blue Hot Springs in Warrnambool.
