Old Melbourne Ghost Tour: Discover the City’s Haunted Past
I’ve always been fascinated by ghost stories, so I jumped at the chance to join an award-winning Lantern Ghost Tour in Melbourne. My husband was less enthusiastic but agreed to tag along.
Whatever your beliefs, a Lantern Ghost Tour promises an unforgettable, spine-tingling night. With a guide who brings the city’s haunted history to life and real chills around every corner, you’re in for a thrilling experience.
>> Head straight to our personal tidbits including accessibility advice for Lantern Ghost Tours
What to Expect on the Old Melbourne Ghost Tour
As the tour begins, we huddle together, a group of 30, poised to step back into a time when Melbourne’s darkest secrets lurked just around each corner.
My husband’s here too, though he’s sceptical—already eyeing the theatrics with a smirk. Me? I’m fully engrossed. I love a good ghost story, especially when it’s grounded in real murders and eerie historical truths.
Chloe, our guide, leads us through Hosier Lane, Melbourne’s famed graffiti alley turned spectral stage. Under the cover of night, it’s more shadowy than colourful, every flicker of light casting odd shapes on the walls.
We’re here for the tale of Frederick Deeming, Australia’s first serial killer, who wreaked havoc in 1892. He’s said to roam this lane still, or at least, so the guide suggests, eyeing us with an arched brow. I found myself looking over my shoulder, not entirely convinced I was alone.
Shadows and Spirits – Old Melbourne’s Haunted Past
Through George Parade, we’re invited to capture “orbs” with our cameras—said to be traces of the spirit world. But first, we’re asked to silently request permission in our minds, a gesture meant to respect the unseen.
The sceptic in my husband sighs, but I play along, hoping for a glimmer or two to catch in my photos.
Gun Alley is next, where our guide hands out dowsing rods to a few curious souls. We’re here to “speak” with Alma, a young girl murdered in 1921, wrongly attributed to a man named Colin Campbell Ross. He was hanged for a crime he didn’t commit, though his innocence was later proven.
As the rods sway in willing hands, an odd chill runs down my spine, as if the spirits are just around us, listening in.
And what about those flickering street lights, blinking in the darkness above? Our guide gives a small smile, “Oh that’s just Alma, playing her tricks.”
Choose from Five Lantern Ghost Tours Melbourne
1. Old Melbourne Ghost Tour
Join the Old Melbourne Ghost Tour for a spine-tingling exploration of the city’s darker side. Starting at Young & Jackson Hotel, this 2 km journey reveals the secrets of opium dens and medical scandals while recounting the haunting story of opera singer Federici’s fatal performance. History comes alive in chills!
Tickets start from $39, duration is 90 minutes
Meet outside Young & Jackson Hotel Corner of Flinders Street and Swanston Street
Book tickets here
2. Spirits and Ales Haunted Pub Tour
Discover Melbourne’s dark past on the Spirits and Ales Haunted Pub Tour. Visit three haunted pubs, including a ghostly bookshop and the iconic Young & Jacksons Hotel. Experience spine-tingling stories of unsolved mysteries, tragic romances, and ghostly apparitions, all while enjoying the city’s rich history and vibrant pub culture. Drinks are not included.
Tickets start from $39, duration is 120 minutes
Meet outside Royal Melbourne Hotel Bourke Street Melbourne
Find tickets here
3. Ghost of Old City Williamstown
Step into the shadows of Williamstown’s rich history with a ghost tour that reveals its spectral secrets. Along the way, visit the site of Victoria’s oldest morgue and then explore hidden laneways. For an extra treat, enjoy an optional two-course dinner at the haunted Steampacket Hotel, followed by chilling tales of the town’s intriguing past.
Tickets start from $39, duration is 120 minutes
Meet at Hobsons Bay Visitor Information Center, Nelson Place, Williamstown
Find tickets here.
4. Altona Homestead Ghost Tour
Discover the haunting history of Altona Homestead on this captivating ghost tour, just 20 minutes from Melbourne. As you explore, visit Australia’s original homestead, known for its paranormal activity and deeply connected to the Langhorne family’s intriguing past. Here, you’ll experience a blend of history and ghostly tales in a setting filled with unforgettable spirits.
Tickets start from $39, duration is 120 minutes
Meet at Altona Homestead, Logan Reserve, Altona
Find tickets here.
5. Point Cook Paranormal Activity
Experience an eerie journey at Point Cook Homestead, the former home of the Chirnside family. Explore the haunted 1850s property, uncover family secrets, and witness paranormal activity. Visit the old stables and the private beach where lost souls linger, all under the enchanting glow of moonlight.
However, be warned, this tour has the company’s highest levels of paranormal activity.
Tickets start from $81, duration is 180 minutes
Meet at Point Cook Homestead, 1 Point Cook Homestead Road, Point Cook.
Book tickets here.
Tidbits for your Lantern Ghost Tour Melbourne
- The Ghost Tour running times range from 90-120 minutes which involves walking with various stops where you are standing (limited seating available);
- These tours are run in the evening, so have transport or accommodation planned;
- The tour guide carries a small speaker and microphone to help amplify their voice;
- If you’ve got teenage grandkids who are into this sort of thing, it’s recommended for ages 8 and above;
- Tours are wheelchair accessible, but be sure to inform them when booking for extra assistance and advice;
- Note: Not for the faint of heart;
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The Seniors in Melbourne team were hosted as guests of Lantern Ghost Tours. All opinions are the writer’s own.
