BUG review
The Jail is a unique hostel in an old prison that was built in 1866 and operated for 129 years. It has been restored to its original condition and features tall stone walls topped with razor wire, a big exercise yard and accommodation in former cells. It also has a bar/restaurant with a pool table and free internet access. It is a unique place to stay. Some travellers find the whole prison experience a bit too spooky but others come here for the novelty of staying in a cell, but it was never intended as holiday accommodation so the accommodation is basic and parts of it are a bit shabby.
About BUG's hostel reviews
This hostel was visited by one of BUG's team of hostel inspectors who write independent reviews and assess a star rating based on an objective assessment criteria.
We show up unannounced at hostels to write honest and unbiased hostel reviews. Many of BUG's reviews now feature videos and photo slideshows. BUG never receives payment for listing any establishment and BUG's researchers never accept free accommodation in exchange for favourable reviews.
Price Dorm bed $22 Single room $33 Double/twin room $52
Prices include breakfast Prices are in Australian dollars and are inclusive of all taxes.
We booked in advance. When we arrived the place was deserted. We waited 35 five minutes wandering around, calling. Nothing. 2 cells were open, but we had no idea if they were because some guests left or what? Really basic: naked concrete floors, no wardrobes, no tables or bedside tables - just beds. Not enough blankets. Attention claustrophobics, no windows!Overpriced, no doubt.A guy with a bucket of paint passed by silently and went somewhere. We followed him. He said, take whatever is open, he knew nothing of when would the owners return. We sat by the kitchen - he painted a wall speaking to himself, arguing and shouting.We attempted contact again, he cooled off. If we retreated he restarted.The place was wallpapered with warnings : not allowed to BYO.We left after 4 PM bored and tired and spooked by the guy. At the gate we met a girl that had booked in advance too. Hearing there was just the painter in & 100% vacancy - she turned around with us.The place seemed unwelcoming to her too.
8 of
10 people found this review helpful
Was this review helpful to you?
Anonymous
Adelaide, Australia
Very interesting place 5 September 2002
Pros:
n/a
Cons:
n/a
Anonymous
saw things this way
Maintenance
(4)
Cleanliness
(4)
Facilities
(4)
Atmosphere
(4)
(Review ID: 10981)
Mount Gambier is an interesting place in its own, but staying in a jail made the experience even better. The service was great, the activities were fun and I'd recommened it to anyone.
10 of
10 people found this review helpful
Was this review helpful to you?
rinkgem@yahoo.com
Mumbai, India
Jailhouse rock 12 April 2002
Pros:
n/a
Cons:
n/a
rinkgem@yahoo.com
saw things this way
Maintenance
(2)
Cleanliness
(2)
Facilities
(2)
Atmosphere
(2)
(Review ID: 10982)
The thought of spending one night in a jail cell was certainly sounded exciting and we were impressed with the cells which had been remodeled just enough to be comfortable and still kept their original look. We were checked in at a reception behind bars with the owners in jail caps. The dinner served at the jail was a little overpriced but having a bar in the premises was nice. Breafast is included in the room price. Just be careful of the bugs and spiders crawling around the cells.
7 of
13 people found this review helpful
Was this review helpful to you?
Slugger
Mt.Gambier, Australia
awsome experience staying in cell in a real(ex) jail 21 November 2001
Pros:
n/a
Cons:
n/a
Slugger
saw things this way
Maintenance
(4)
Cleanliness
(4)
Facilities
(4)
Atmosphere
(4)
(Review ID: 10983)
A great place to stay that has the added benefit of havin its own bar and restaurant. A few locals also go to the Jail and so be prepared to meet some Aussies face to face over a game of pool. lots of space and beds. In the centre of town. Had a great time on a Saturday night when there is free entertainment. The monthly jam session would be great to catch.
