Melbourne Crime and Gangsters Walking Tour
Step Back in Time on a Melbourne Underworld Walking Tour
Victoria
people
1 participant
hours
- • Explore Melbourne's Infamous Past with a Historian and Writer
- • 2 Hour Historical Walking Tour
- • Discover Melbourne's Underground Female Crime Syndicate
Why We Love This Unique Experience
Step back in time with a captivating Melbourne Historical Walking Tour: Crime, Gangsters & Lolly Shops. Discover the dark and intriguing stories of Melbourne’s underworld from the 1870s to the 1930s, when the city's downtown slum district, 'Little Lon', was controlled by fierce women. Explore the battle for supremacy, encounters with notorious gangsters like Squizzy Taylor, and the existence of an all-female crime syndicate called 'The Combine'. Visit former brothels and sly grog shops, where you'll hear tales of shootings, bombings, and opium and cocaine dealings.
Led by historian Michael Shelford, this two-hour tour takes you through the heart of Melbourne's past, unveiling a world of crime, violence, and illicit activities that once ruled the streets. You'll gather outside buildings that once housed secret operations, gaining insight into the scandals, robberies, and the gritty lifestyles of the era. Additionally, you'll stop by Little Lon Distilling Co., a gin distillery located in a former house of ill repute, to delve deeper into the hidden histories of Melbourne's past residents.
Uncover Melbourne's dark past and dive into an immersive experience with this unique walking tour. Perfect for history buffs, crime enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a different perspective on the city's colorful heritage, this experience promises an unforgettable journey through Australia's intriguing history. Make it a great gift for a friend or loved one looking to explore the hidden gems and stories of old Melbourne.
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Experience Overview:
Melbourne Historical Walking Tour: Crime, Gangsters & Lolly ShopsTake a walk through downtown Melbourne and learn of an era in which there was much more on offer at the local confectionery store than just lollies and soft drinks. Explore Melbourne’s underworld c.1870’s to 1930’s, an era in which Melbourne’s downtown slum district, ‘Little Lon’, was mostly run by women. Learn about the battle for supremacy, madams who stood their ground against well-known gangsters such as Squizzy Taylor, and an all-female crime syndicate known as ‘The Combine’. Stop outside buildings which were once brothels and sly grog shops (speak easies), and hear the stories of what occurred within their walls and on the streets and laneways around them.
Shootings, bombings, bashings, brothels, robberies, opium, cocaine and sly grog (speak easies).
The tour is designed and delivered by writer and historian, Michael Shelford.
Meeting Point
282 Exhibition St
282 Exhibition St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
We meet at the Coopers Inn Hotel, 282 Exhibition St, Melbourne CBD. The Coopers has great food, drink, and a friendly Australian pub atmosphere.
What's included:
- A tour booklet featuring photos of the characters discussed along the way.
Not included:
- Please bring along your own food and drinks.
What to expect:
Duration: 2 hours
Little Lon Distilling Co.
17 Casselden Pl, Melbourne, Vic, Melbourne, 3000, Victoria
Little Lon Distilling Co is a Gin Distillery which operates from Melbourne CBD's only surviving single story cottage. It also happens to be a former house of ill repute. You will hear stories of the cottage's former inhabitants, sourced from original police files.
10 minutes
Details & Important Info
Additional Experience Details & Important Information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Cancellations & Refunds
Reservation Changes, Cancellations & Refunds
Changes to reservations for tickets can be made until 3 days prior to the date scheduled. Reservations may be re-scheduled by the operator of the activity due to reasons such as weather, minimum participation requirements, mechanical issues or other interruptions beyond their control.
Organized by
Melbourne Historical Crime Tours
Product SKU: AU-12078-0002
Google Business Profile: Melbourne Historical Crime Tours
What People Are Saying
Embark on a captivating journey through Melbourne's hidden history with the highly acclaimed tours led by the passionate and knowledgeable Michael! Customers rave about the immersive experience, highlighting his engaging storytelling that brings the dark tales of crime and the characters of Little Lon to life. Even locals are amazed by how much they learn, uncovering the intriguing stories behind historical sites that often go unnoticed. With a perfect blend of education and entertainment, this tour is a must-do for both visitors and Melbourne residents. Don't miss the chance to delve into the city's colorful past and see it through a whole new lens—many participants say they can’t wait to return for more!
Experience Highlights
Expert Guide... Engaging Stories... Hidden History... Unforgettable Experience... Highly Recommended... Great for Locals... Fascinating Insights... Passionate Presentation... Unique Perspective... Must-Do Tour... Great for Groups... Educational Fun... Discover Melbourne's Past...
Melbourne Gangsters Walking Tour
Victoria
people
1 participant
hours
- • Explore Melbourne's Infamous Past with a Historian and Writer
- • 2 Hour Historical Walking Tour
- • Discover Melbourne's Underground Female Crime Syndicate
Best Experience Providers
Our Activity Partners are highly rated and experts in what they do, guaranteeing you an unforgettable experience.
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