Fitzroy True Crime Walking Tour: Explore Melbourne's Historic Crime District with a Historian
4.9
86 Ratings
Carlton
Uncover the dark history of Melbourne's crime district on the Fitzroy True Crime Walking Tour. Explore former brothels, gangland murders, and more with a historian guide.
Duration:
2 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
learn more
Highlights
- Fitzroy - Historic buildings and lane ways.
What's Included
- Tour booklet with character photos
Additional Information
Take part in a riveting 2-hour stroll, exploring the bygone crime jurisdictions of Fitzroy, and familiarize yourself with the vibrant individuals who inhabited Melbourne’s notorious crime district a century ago. The enlightening Fitzroy True Crime Walking Tour is exclusively curated and guided by literature enthusiast and historian, Michael Shelford, leveraging the original police archives ranging from 1890 to the 1920s. Discover the history behind erstwhile brothels, underground bars, infamous gang wars, and violent encounters with law enforcement, among other captivating subjects.
All participants of the tour will be given a complimentary booklet, featuring photographs of the individuals discussed throughout the journey.
Easy accessibility to Fitzroy’s location on the outskirts of Melbourne’s CBD is guaranteed by consistent tram services operating between the city and Fitzroy.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
Location
9 Nicholson St
Nicholson Street
We meet at the entrance doors to Melbourne Museum, 9 Nicholson St Carlton.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.9
(86 Ratings)
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Knowstravelstuff
Mar 31, 2024
Fun and enjoyable tour of Melbourne’s grimy criminal past - We had a really enjoyable 2 hours walking with Michael around Melbourne’s Fitzroy area. Michael knows his stuff, hardly surprising given that he’s studied so many of the files of Melbourne’s worst criminals of 100 years ago and written much of his material from its Old Gaol!
Prepare yourselves for a very fun and informative historical tour of Melbourne’s crime-ridden underbelly. Thoroughly recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ann_m
Feb 27, 2024
Michael is a captivating... - Michael is a captivating storyteller. So knowledgeable about the area and the crime stories from the past are riveting.
Review provided by Viator
Michellec877
Feb 4, 2024
Two Hours Well Spent! - Michael's tour was fantastic! It offered a comprehensive insight into "old Fitzroy" in early 20th century. It was great to see all the buildings still standing today. I would recommend this tour to anyone interested in Fitzroy back in the "bad old days"! Thanks Michael.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Q8699cekatherines
Jan 16, 2024
A well researched tour - Michael has done his homework! His knowledge of the history of the area shone as we explored the area. He had a lot of stories to share and it was very interesting, the booklet that came with the tour was a nice complement and helped us keep track of the many characters. We will be signing up for his other tours!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Christine_h
Jan 15, 2024
Fitzroy shady history - Michael's knowledge of the area and the events of the early 1900's was fascinating! He had so many stories of the gangs and their rivalries, and we got to see many infamous areas that I never knew existed. I also now know why The Tote (an iconic Melbourne pub) is called that! Thank you Michael.
Review provided by Viator
Venture02404115916
Jan 7, 2024
Exciting Crime Scene Tours in Melbourne - This is our second time we have undertaken a Melbourne Crime tour with Michael our tour guide. His knowledge through years of accurate research via Police records provided us with an exciting insight into the crime of years ago. His ability to address questions from the tour is greatly appreciated as well. Even with the rain which eventuated he was able to adapt the tour and provide rain protection for everyone. Well worth it and we look forward to our next visit to Melbourne and our next Crime tour. Thanks Michael
Review provided by Tripadvisor
E5133qdjoh
Jan 7, 2024
You won’t be disappointed. - It was so informative and our guide was very flexible with allowing people to ask questions. He has such an extensive understanding of the era and passionate about the importance of that time.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Antony_mover
Dec 5, 2023
Thrilling Step Back in Time - I just went on the Fitzroy True Crime Tour and wow, it was amazing! Michael, our guide, really knew his stuff and made the tour super engaging. He took us through the cool yet edgy history of Fitzroy, Melbourne's oldest suburb, and a hotspot for all sorts of criminal shenanigans back in the 1900s.
This tour isn't just a history lesson; it's an experience into a pivotal part of Melbourne’s past. It's a must-do for anyone interested in crime history or looking to see a different side of Melbourne. Kudos to Michael for such a well-organized and fascinating tour. Highly recommended for locals and tourists alike!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jim_l
Nov 6, 2023
Outstanding tour. - Tour guide Michael has an amazing ability to deliver a great experience. His knowledge of crime in Fitzroy in the early 1900s is remarkable. He shows a real passion which makes the tour even more enjoyable. I would definitely recommend it.
Review provided by Viator
Dianeando
Oct 22, 2023
Great tour - Fantastic tour. Mick is very knowledgeable and passionate about the history of crime in the Fitzroy district. He has done a lot of private research and is patient and thorough when providing the information. The trip is good value for the cost.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
