Kids - for your next family day out, you're going to gaol (but don't worry, you don't have to stay there!) We're talking about Fannie Bay Gaol, which is not only rich in social history but also considered one of the Northern Territory's most important heritage sites - making for a very fascinating and historic family day out in NT

Ready to get the history lesson started? Okay then!

Fannie Bay Gaol operated as Her Majesty's Gaol and Labour Prison in Darwin from 1883 to 1979, with the original building comprising of Blocks A and B, both containing 6 cells, as well as a kitchen and a wash house.

The Infirmary was added in 1887 and contains the gallows installed for the last executions held in the Territory in 1952. Exploration is self guided so you can let the kids lead where their interest draw them - they will be amazing at the enforced hardships on display at Fannie Bay Gaol compared to modern prisons.

A separate cell block for female prisoners was added in 1928, and a watch tower, "native section" for Aboriginal prisoners, kitchen mess building, remand section and two maximum security wings were added during the 1950s.

Today, Fannie Bay Gaol is an important historic site, and attracts thousands of visitors each year - so why not join them?

Admission is FREE to Fannie Bay Gaol, because everyone should be able to enjoy this incredibly fascinating piece of Australian history.