Uncover the Secrets of Parliament House on a Free Melbourne Tour
If you’re looking to discover one of Melbourne’s most historically significant buildings, then the tour of Parliament House is a must. Located on Spring Street, this grand structure is the home of the Victorian Parliament, and the free guided tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the history, politics, and architecture that have shaped Victoria.
The 45-minute Parliament House tour begins with a warm introduction from our knowledgeable guide, who leads us through the corridors of power, sharing stories about the past and present role of the Parliament.
Related reading: Parliament House High Tea: we didn’t want to leave!
>> Head straight to our personal tidbits including accessibility for Parliament House
A Peek Inside Parliament House, Melbourne Tours
The Parliament House tour takes us into the heart of the action: the Legislative Chambers, where laws are debated and passed. Sitting in a Member of Parliament’s chair, you can almost feel the weight of the decisions made here.
Our guide shares intriguing details about the Westminster style of Parliament, which forms the basis for how government operates in Victoria. A highlight is the story of the stolen mace—an artefact central to parliamentary procedures, which mysteriously disappeared in 1891.
Our Review
Parliament House is another of Melbourne’s magnificent buildings that architecturally reflects Victoria’s booming gold rush era. It is also another of those sites that I have walked past many times but never ventured into, and now, thanks to Seniors in Melbourne, I am adding it to my list of amazing finds in our States Capitol.
On the free guided tour, we were shown the whole kit and caboodle of where our elected Members of Parliament spend a lot of their working time.
From the offices at the rear to the ornate entrance columns the building somehow gave me a new respect for our governmental system. The décor and furnishing, ornately carved wood and abundant use of gold-leaf, is very cool and oozes an historic vibe.
I was surprised that the two houses, Upper and Lower, were actually a lot smaller than I gauged from seeing on the TV news. After all, it is here that laws are passed and issues debated that affect every Victorian.
Surprisingly, we were able to relax in the Members seats as our guide told stories and explained various features and functions. I went next level, sat in the Speaker’s Seat and stood with my arm resting on the back of the seat where our Premier is located during Parliament… something I’ve never dreamt of doing.
My two most impressive rooms were the Parliament Library and Queen’s Hall.
– Chris
Admire History in the Queen’s Hall
From the Chambers, we move into Queen’s Hall, named after Queen Victoria.
It’s a stunning space filled with natural light, marble columns, and portraits of past Premiers. Don’t forget to have your photo taken with the statue of Queen Victoria, standing proudly in the hall.
In addition to its visual beauty, this is where the history of Victoria truly comes to life, offering visitors a moment to reflect on how far the state has come since its founding days.
The Parliamentary Library: A Hidden Gem
Next, one of the pleasant surprises of the Victoria Parliament tour is the Library. This beautifully preserved room once housed the books and records that helped shape legislative decisions.
Our guide explains how the Library even played a role in convincing the Federal Parliament to temporarily occupy the building from 1901 to 1927.
Although access to the Library is subject to availability, we are fortunate to step inside and admire its quiet grandeur firsthand.
Get Involved and Ask Questions
One of the best parts of the tour is how interactive it is. The guide is passionate about Parliament’s work and welcomes any questions. Whether you’re curious about the history of the building, how the laws are made, or what it’s like to work in Parliament, there’s plenty of opportunity to get involved in the conversation.
Parliament House High Tea
For a touch of elegance, enjoy High Tea at Strangers Corridor before or after your Parliament House tour. Available on Thursdays when Parliament is not sitting, it’s a lovely addition to your day.
The High Tea is set in a beautifully historic location. It offers a delightful range of sweet and savoury treats, all made from local Victorian produce. Plus, it’s a unique chance to relax with afternoon tea right in the halls of Parliament. It’s the perfect way to end your visit with a bit of luxury.
Read our full review here.
Tidbits for Visiting Parliament House Melbourne
- The Parliament House tours Melbourne are available Monday to Friday when Parliament isn’t sitting;
- Tours are free and run at various times from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm;
- No bookings are required;
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before the start time to go through security screening and check-in;
- Remember to bring photo identification and be mindful of the items not permitted on the premises;
- Parliament House High Tea is available at 2.00 pm on Thursdays when Parliament is not sitting;
- To book a Parliament House High Tea contact Strangers Corridor via (03) 9651 8944 https://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/visit/high-tea/;
Parliament House Accessibility
- All public areas are accessible by wheelchair. Be aware, there are a variety of floor coverings including polished stone, timber, and high-pile carpets;
- Accessible parking is in the Forecourt Basement car park near the lifts;
- You can borrow a wheelchair or stroller for free from the Information Desk in the Marble Foyer. You will need to present photo ID;
- A toilet and change facility that caters for users with high support needs and their carers is located on Level 1, adjacent to the Post Office.
Getting there
- Parliament Station is the nearest train station, located directly beneath Parliament House.
- Trams are one of the most efficient ways to get to Parliament House. The following tram routes stop at the nearby Parliament Station: Routes 86 and 96. These trams run along Bourke Street and stop right in front of Parliament House. Routes 11, 12, 48, and 109: These trams run along Collins Street, a short walk from Parliament House.
- Several bus routes run through the CBD and can drop you close to Parliament House. Check local bus schedules for routes that pass near Spring Street.
Parliament House
1 Spring St, Melbourne VIC 3000
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