Richmond Gaol is Australia's oldest intact prison; established in 1825, it predates the penal colony at Port Arthur. Originally a 13.5-square-meter building, overcrowding in the early 1830s led to modifications by Colonial Architect John Lee Archer, expanding the structure with separate wings for male and female prisoners. A two-story addition in 1833 accommodated the gaoler and Javelin men. The female wing included a cookhouse and bake oven. The stone wall erected in 1840 was built to enhance security.

In conjunction with Richmond 200, Open House Hobart is super excited to announce Open House Richmond. This special one-off event will be held on Saturday 24 + Sunday 25 February 2024, and will form part of an extensive program that celebrates Richmond’s bicentenary. Open House Hobart is an annual architecture program that opens some of Tasmania’s most unique buildings to the public, including private homes and historic buildings across lutruwita Tasmania. We acknowledge that Open House takes place on the land of the traditional owners of lutruwita (Tasmania) and pay respects to the palawa people, Tasmanian Aboriginal Community and to Elders - past, present and emerging.

For detail of the full Open House Richmond 2024 program, head to openhousehobart.org/richmond

Ticket Conditions

Bookings open TBC.  Tickets are free but are also limited and in high demand – if you are unable to attend please cancel your ticket via booking link or contact the Open House Hobart team: tas@architecture.com.au