When Pentridge officially opened its gates last year in 2020, many enquired about the preservation of Pentridge’s heritage buildings. The possibility of exploring these very buildings, which have an emotional and notorious history woven tightly into their bluestone walls, had been raised as well.
There are strong emotional ties to the iconic landmark in Coburg and ensuring this is respected, is a priority. This is why we are excited to announce that Pentridge has officially appointed the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) as our tourism operations partner.
Simon Ambrose, CEO of the National Trust of Australia (Victoria), said, “Pentridge is a heritage-listed former state prison that was established in 1851. We’re excited to be working with Pentridge to bring back to life its 170-year history to help visitors gain a greater understanding of Victoria’s penal history and appreciation for this historic property.” Once open, visitors will be able to explore the former prison’s A and B Division, plus the notorious H Division.
“The National Trust have a wealth of experience delivering engaging and informative visitor offerings for a range of heritage-listed properties, including the Old Melbourne Gaol, so we’re excited to be working with them to create one of Victoria’s must-see tourist experiences at Pentridge,” said Michael Wade, Pentridge Precinct Manager. “The public have an appetite to learn more about Pentridge, and we look forward to helping them to discover its historic and criminal underbelly,” Mr Wade concluded.
The former Warders’ Residence is set to become the new visitor centre.
In 2022, visitors will additionally be able to enjoy the Adina Pentridge hotel, which will offer guests restaurant, bar and conferencing facilities and the opportunity to stay within the historic B Division cell block. This is in addition to the offerings already made available — visitors can enjoy an array of amenities at Pentridge, including a 15-screen Palace Cinema, restaurants, retail shops alongside a Ritchies IGA Fine Food and Wine Supermarket, playground and a heritage fronted public piazza.
Pentridge is now home to Pentridge Studios (creative studios) and the newly launched Divisions Gallery which together, fall under ‘Pentridge Arts’. A collection of stunning apartment residences have also been built, which are positioned within the bluestone walls of the Pentridge precinct.