Located at Arthur Head in Fremantle, the Round House was the first permanent building in the Swan River Settlement, Perth's original establishment. The unique 12-sided stone structure is now the oldest remaining building in Western Australia. Originally built as a goal, or jail, the house was based on the Panopticon, a type of prison that allows the prison warden to observe the prisoners without them knowing they are being watched. Visitors to the Round House can join a tour given by one of the volunteer guides, who are ready to fascinate visitors with stories of the Round House's rather grizzly history.
The Round House is open daily from 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Tours run daily. Admission is by donation. For more information: +61 8 9336 6897
