The Justice & Police Museum in Sydney offers a compelling look into the city’s criminal history, police work and legal heritage. Located in historic courthouse and police station buildings, this museum provides an immersive experience of law, crime and punishment in New South Wales. This guide outlines key practical details, such as opening hours, ticket prices, parking, accessibility and planning tips, to help you prepare appropriately.
History and overview of the Justice & Police Museum
The museum occupies heritage buildings including a former Water Police Station, Police Court (circa 1885) and historic Sydney holding cells used for officers and prisoners in the 19th and early 20th centuries. These sandstone structures once formed part of Sydney’s active legal precinct at Circular Quay.
Inside, the museum’s galleries trace the development of policing, crime investigation and justice from early colonial times through to modern methods. Exhibits include mug-shots, forensic evidence, trial photographs and displays about bushrangers, razor gangs and other aspects of Sydney’s underworld past.
The museum also highlights social history, including how law enforcement, immigration, maritime crime and policing intersected with the growth of Sydney and the harbour. For example, the Sydney Water Police Court gives visitors a vivid taste of justice in action during the 19th century.
Today, the Justice & Police Museum is part of Museums of History NSW and sits in a prominent location overlooking Circular Quay at the corner of Albert Street and Phillip Street. Its central city position means it’s easy to combine with other Sydney attractions.
Five great things to do while you’re in Sydney
- Take a small group tour to the Blue Mountains – with a Parramatta River cruise thrown in.
- See the landmarks and secret beaches – on a Sydney Harbour cruise.
- Discover Sydney’s most historic neighbourhood – on a Rocks walking tour.
- Go on a whale-watching cruise – and admire migrating humpbacks.
- Learn to surf at Bondi Beach – with beginner surfing lessons.
Opening hours for the Justice & Police Museum
The museum is open on Saturday and Sunday from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm. During New South Wales school holidays it is open daily 10.00 am to 5.00 pm. It is closed on Christmas Day.
Ticket prices for the Justice & Police Museum
Justice and Police Museum tickets are free.. Visitors are encouraged to pre-book their visit online.
How to get to the Justice & Police Museum and parking
The museum is located at Corner Albert Street and Phillip Street, Sydney NSW 2000. Its location in the Circular Quay precinct makes it highly accessible by train, ferry, bus or light rail. Trains to Wynyard or Circular Quay stations are within a short walk of the museum.
There is no dedicated museum car park. For those travelling by car, you will need to use nearby public or expensive commercial car parks. The surrounding streets have limited metered parking and coach bays are available on Macquarie Street.
Accessibility and visitor facilities
The Justice & Police Museum provides ramp access from Albert Street, making the main exhibition spaces wheel-chair accessible. Accessible toilets are available. Assistance animals are welcome. Some heritage areas (such as cell-blocks or steep stairs) have limited access. Please contact the museum if you have specific access needs.
The museum has a shop, guest services desk where you can ask for support and interpretive materials. Photography for personal use is permitted except where signage prohibits it.
Best times to visit and how long to allow
Visiting early after opening at 10.00 am on weekends will tend to be quieter, since the museum only opens on weekends (outside school holidays). Arriving at opening gives you the best chance to explore without crowds.
To plan your Justice and Police Museum visit, allocate around 1 to 1.5 hours if you view the major galleries; if you join a guided tour or explore in depth you may wish to allocate up to 2 hours.
Tips for a smoother visit
- Pre-book online even though entry is free, to secure your time slot and avoid disappointment.
- Check ahead for any special exhibition or event which might alter opening hours or access.
- If you are driving, plan your parking in advance and allow extra time for the city traffic and walking from the car park.
- Combine your visit with other nearby sites such as the Museum of Sydney, Hyde Park Barracks or Circular Quay waterfront for a packed half day.
- Other cultural attractions within walking distance include the Anzac Memorial, the Australian National Maritime Museum, the Susannah Place Museum and the Sydney Opera House.
Frequently asked questions about the Justice & Police Museum
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is there a cost to visit? | No. Admission is free for all visitors. |
| What are the opening hours? | Saturday & Sunday 10.00 am–5.00 pm; daily in NSW school holidays; closed Christmas Day. |
| Is parking available at the museum? | No dedicated parking. Use nearby commercial car parks around Circular Quay or bus/tram for easier access. |
| Is the museum accessible? | Yes. Wheel-chair access is via ramp; accessible toilets are available; some older heritage sections may have limited access. |
| How long does a visit typically take? | Allocate about 1–1.5 hours for a standard visit; up to 2 hours if exploring in depth or attending a tour. |
More Sydney travel
Other Sydney travel articles on Planet Whitley include:
- How travelling with kids makes Sydney different.
- A luxury travel guide to Sydney.
- A first-timer’s guide to visiting Luna Park in Sydney.
- Planning a visit to Lane Cove National Park.
- Neighbourhood guide to Surry Hills.
