The Round House stands above Bathers Beach in Fremantle and is Western Australia’s oldest surviving public building. Opened in 1831 as a gaol, this compact, twelve-sided limestone structure lets you step into the original cells and courtyard while learning about the settlement’s early history. From the grounds, look out across the beach, harbour and Indian Ocean. The daily 1pm cannon firing and lowering of the time ball add a live maritime tradition to a short heritage stop.
A gaol on the Fremantle headland
The Round House opened in 1831, soon after the Swan River Colony was established. Built as a gaol, it held people convicted of offences in the early settlement. Its twelve-sided plan and limestone walls make it distinct from the later, much larger Fremantle Prison.
The building’s original arrangement centred on a courtyard, with cells opening onto it. The layout let a guard keep watch across the cells from the middle. Eight cells were built at first; four remain. You can enter the surviving spaces and see the thick stonework at close range.
From prison to public landmark
The gaol closed in 1886. The Round House later served as a police lock-up, provided accommodation for water police and was used for storage by Fremantle Ports. Today, volunteer guides help visitors understand the building and its place in the area’s early history. Information boards around the site add context as you explore.
A tunnel beneath the precinct links the hillside with Bathers Beach and the town. It was associated with whaling operations. The Round House also sits near other historic sites and galleries, so the visit can fit into a walk around this part of Fremantle.
The cannon and time ball
At 1pm each day, the cannon is fired and the time ball is lowered. The signal tradition dates to 1900, when the cannon helped sailors set their chronometers. The time ball was used by mariners and local residents to check the time until 1937.
For the ceremony, head to the cannon before the hour and follow any directions from the volunteers. The sound is loud, so stand back if you are sensitive to it. The grounds also make a good place to pause for views over Bathers Beach, the harbour and the Indian Ocean.
FAQ
Is entry to the Round House free?
Yes. Entry is free, and visitors can leave a donation to help maintain the building.
When does the cannon fire?
The cannon is fired daily at 1pm, alongside the lowering of the time ball.
How long should I spend at the Round House?
Allow about 20 to 30 minutes to explore the cells, read the displays and take in the views.
What was the Round House used for?
It opened as a gaol in 1831 and closed in 1886. It was later used as a police lock-up, water police accommodation and storage for Fremantle Ports.
