DETAILS

FULL LENGTH TOUR DESCRIPTION
Meet your guide and driver as you disembark the ship today for a transfer to Maitland Gaol. Still being in working operation until its closure in 1998, the gaol is now a popular tourist attraction.  The Gaol has a colourful history which spans 150 years and it has contained some of the country’s most hardened and notorious criminals.  Today you will be privileged to an insider’s view of the Gaol as you are guided on a 1 hour tour given from the perspective of an ex-inmate.  Serve your time in Maitland Gaol and hear all about the facility, past prisoners and daring escapes.

Next you will travel to nearby Morpeth where you will be able to enjoy some free time to explore this charming historic precinct that is National Trust listed and protected.  The first landowner in the area was Lt. Edward Charles Close in 1821, although the town was not settled until 1834.  Settled on the banks of the Hunter River the town became a popular trading port.  The town’s population peaked in 1865 with the boom in river trading, however with the emergence of rail transportation and the development of Newcastle Port the town’s importance declined.  Nonetheless the result is a charming historic village providing a picture of life in another era.  Stroll around the village viewing stately sandstone buildings, including “Closebourne” built in the late 1820’s as residence for Lt. Edward Charles Close, exhibiting classic Georgian symmetrical features set in an Arcadian landscape.  There are over 35 significant sites to view in Morpeth as well as a number of antique stores, art galleries and fine linenware shops.

Finally you will take a relaxing drive back to Newcastle and your cruise ship.

SHORT LENGTH TOUR DESCRIPTION
Disembark the ship for a transfer to Maitland Gaol, where you will experience an insider’s view of the Gaol as you are guided on a 1 hour tour given from the perspective of an ex-inmate.  Serve your time in Maitland Gaol and hear all about the facility, past prisoners and daring escapes. Travel to nearby Morpeth where you can enjoy free time to explore this charming historic precinct that is National Trust listed and protected.   Finally you will take a relaxing drive back to Newcastle and your awaiting cruise ship.

TIMING BREAKDOWN
00:00     Depart from pier for Maitland and Morpeth
00:45    Arrive at Maitland Gaol, commence 1 hour guided Inmate Tour.
02:00    Depart Maitland Gaol
02:10    Arrive Morpeth historic village for free time
03:10    Depart Morpeth
04:00    Return to the ship

Approximate duration: 4 Hours
 
OPERATIONAL NOTES
- Includes shipside collection, touring in air-conditioned coach with professional driver and guide, entry to Maitland Gaol
- Activity Level is Mild

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