About this place
What to expect
The Fremantle Round House is the oldest surviving public building in Western Australia. It was built as a gaol almost immediately upon the settlement of the Swan River Colony. It was designed by Henry Willey Reveley, the colony's first Civil Engineer, and built in 1830 - 1831. Wander around the twelve-sided Round House and marvel at the diverse uses of this historic building including its initial use as a goal and gaoler's residence. It was later used as a police lock-up and shortly as a home for the Water Police Constable, his wife and seven children. It is now a popular tourist attraction. Enjoy the spectacular views from the headland which overlooks the river mouth and has uninterrupted views of Cockburn Sound. A team of volunteer guides are on duty at the Round House during opening hours. They operate the signal station, fire the time gun and drop the time ball every day starting at 12.45 pm. The Round House is an integral stop on any self-guided tour discovering Fremantle’s history. The Transperth No. 532 bus is the easiest way to get around Fremantle and see all of the interesting sights. Fremantle is located just 30 minutes from Perth.