A key anchor attraction of the Hunter, Maitland Gaol has a vibrant history spanning more than 150 years. After housing some of Australia\\\\'s most hardened and notorious criminals, Maitland Gaol closed as a Correctional Institution in 1998.
The cell doors have now been swung open, with visitors invited to serve a small amount of time learning about the facility, past prisoners and daring escapes.
Open 7 days, Maitland Gaol offers visitors the opportunity to indulge in a world class self-guided audio tour. Additionally, themed-guided tours and torchlight tours by night are regularly available and are a great way to interpret this unique attraction. Only the brave can battle a group sleepover night.
The Gaol is also burgeoning as a venue of choice for special events.
At the multi-award winning Campbell’s Store Craft Centre at Morpeth in the Hunter Region, shopping is a real experience. Wander at your leisure through specialty stores, an investment art gallery showcasing some of the best of Australia’s artists and enjoy a beautiful afternoon tea in the Servants Quarters Tearooms. You may select from the work of Australia’s most talented all under one roof. The store is open from Thursday to Sunday, where you will be treated to free ginger beer and good old fashioned cordial tasting from the 13 flavours all made on the premises; fudge and honey tasting, and also try both local and Australian homemade jams, chutneys and sauces of which there are 134 varieties. You are sure to find a favourite!
Friendly old fashioned service awaits you in this two story beautifully restored building. Play a hum drum or with a variety of fun and educational wooden toys in the wood shop downstairs in the jam panty. Or try on an Akubra hat. Explore a shop of teddy bears from Steiff to Charlie Bears and a collection of teapots from the very novel to the beautiful. Whatever your taste, you are sure to find something to enjoy!
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