Melbourne Historical Walking Tour: Crime, Gangsters & Lolly Shops

Melbourne Historical Walking Tour: Crime, Gangsters & Lolly Shops – An In-Depth Look

When it comes to discovering Melbourne, many travelers focus on the city’s vibrant arts, cafes, and laneways. But for those with a curiosity for the city’s darker side, the Melbourne Historical Crime Tours offer a fascinating glimpse into the criminal underworld that once thrived in the CBD. This particular tour, focusing on gangsters, crime mobs, and the surprising history of lolly shops, promises a mix of storytelling, history, and a bit of local legend.

What we love about this tour is how it combines accessible walking exploration with engaging storytelling, led by a guide who clearly knows his stuff. It’s also a fantastic way to see a different side of Melbourne, learning about buildings that once served as brothels or speakeasies, and hearing tales of legendary criminals like Squizzy Taylor. Plus, with a price of just under $34 and a duration of roughly two hours, it offers good value for a compact, immersive experience.

One potential consideration is the pace—two hours might be a bit quick for those who want to linger longer at each site or explore more of Melbourne’s gritty history. But overall, this tour is ideal for anyone interested in crime stories, historical architecture, or simply seeking an offbeat way to explore the city’s core.

This tour suits history buffs, crime enthusiasts, curious travelers wanting a local’s perspective, or those simply looking for a fun, informative walk that reveals Melbourne’s secret stories.

Key Points

• Historical Insight: Gain a new appreciation for Melbourne’s past with stories of gangsters and crime mobs from the 1870s to 1930s
• Authentic Buildings: Visit sites that once housed brothels, speakeasies, and crime hubs, many still standing today
• Legendary Figures: Hear about notorious characters like Squizzy Taylor and the legends surrounding Melbourne’s criminal underbelly
• Unique Stops: The tour includes a visit to Little Lon Distilling Co., a former house of ill repute with police files and stories
• Expert Guide: Guides are well-researched, passionate, and bring the city’s underground history vividly to life
• Value for Money: At $33.90, it offers a concise yet detailed look into Melbourne’s crime history, suitable for most travelers

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point at 282 Exhibition Street

The tour kicks off at a central Melbourne location, making it easy to find and accessible via public transport. Meeting in the heart of the CBD means you’re already amidst the buildings and streets you’ll explore, setting a perfect stage for storytelling.

Little Lon Distilling Co.: A Hidden Gem

This first stop is an absolute highlight. You’ll visit Melbourne’s only surviving single-story cottage, which doubles as a gin distillery today but has a shadowy past as a house of ill repute. The guide shares stories sourced from police files, turning what might seem like an ordinary cottage into a portal to Melbourne’s bawdy past. We loved how this site blends history with modern-day craftsmanship, making it both educational and a touch quirky.

Buildings that Once Housed Brothels and Speakeasies

As you walk along Lonsdale Street, your guide points out buildings that played host to illicit activities. Many of these structures still stand, and it’s fascinating to imagine the scenes that unfolded inside. Reviewers mention how the guide’s detailed knowledge brings these places alive, sharing myths, legends, and facts that aren’t common knowledge.

Tales of Gangsters like Squizzy Taylor

The most captivating part is the stories of famous Australian gangsters, especially Squizzy Taylor, a notorious figure in Melbourne’s underworld. Participants report that the guide’s storytelling makes these legends feel real and immediate, with amusing anecdotes and vivid descriptions. You’ll learn how gangs used apparently innocent businesses like lolly shops as fronts for drug operations, adding a surprising twist to a sweet treat.

Ending at Madame Brussels Lane

The tour wraps up at the corner of Lonsdale Street and Madame Brussels Lane, an area that hints at Melbourne’s layered past. From here, you can continue exploring or head off to more of the city’s attractions knowing you’ve uncovered a gritty chapter of Melbourne’s history.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers consistently praise Michael Shelford for his research and storytelling. His ability to bring Melbourne’s criminal past to life, supported by police files and historical photos, makes the experience both credible and engaging. Comments like “Michael’s knowledge and enthusiasm are contagious” reflect how much his passion enhances the tour.

Authentic Architecture and Hidden Stories: Walking through streets lined with historic buildings that once hosted illicit activities makes history tangible. The stories of how gangs used candy stores as fronts for drug operations add a layer of intrigue that many find surprising.

Humor and Anecdotes: Despite the dark subject matter, the tour is peppered with amusing stories and legends, making it fun rather than grim. For example, stories about street fights between crime figures or the colorful personalities of gangsters like Dolly Taylor add flavor.

Cost-Effective Experience: At just $33.90, this tour offers incredible value considering the depth of storytelling and the number of sites covered. The two-hour duration makes it a perfect afternoon activity that’s not overly demanding.

Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to around 20 travelers, the tour feels intimate enough for questions and personal interactions. Reviewers note that guides are approachable and willing to share extra stories, making it a very personalized experience.

Practical Details and Tips

Accessibility and Meeting Point

The tour’s starting point at Exhibition Street is near public transportation, making it easy to access whether you’re staying downtown or arriving via train. The tour concludes at Madame Brussels Lane, a lively part of town where you might choose to continue exploring.

Duration and Pacing

At approximately two hours, the tour moves at a comfortable pace. Reviewers mention that the tour is well-paced with enough time to absorb stories without feeling rushed. However, some wish there was more time to explore each site or sample the interiors of historic cottages, which are not included.

What to Bring

Since food and drinks are not included, bringing water or a snack is advisable if you tend to get hungry. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you’ll be on your feet most of the time.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of 20 people, the group remains manageable and engaging. It’s suitable for all ages, but children should be accompanied by adults due to the historical and sometimes gritty content.

Final Thoughts

Melbourne’s past is layered with stories of crime, corruption, and colorful characters, and this tour offers a window into those turbulent times. The combination of well-researched storytelling, historic sights, and a passionate guide makes it a memorable addition to any Melbourne itinerary.

If you’re fascinated by underworld tales or want a different perspective on Melbourne’s history, this tour delivers a lively, engaging experience that’s both educational and entertaining. The focus on authentic buildings and legends makes it stand out from more generic city walks.

For those who appreciate detailed storytelling and enjoy uncovering stories behind iconic buildings, this tour hits the mark. Its affordability and intimate group size also make it an excellent choice for curious travelers looking for a mix of history, mystery, and local color.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 282 Exhibition Street and ends at the corner of Lonsdale Street and Madame Brussels Lane.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers can participate. The content is family-friendly but geared towards those interested in history and stories of crime.

Do I need to bring anything?
Food and drinks are not included, so bring water or snacks if desired. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is capped at 20 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience with opportunities for questions.

What is the cost?
The ticket price is $33.90 per person, offering good value for the content and experience.

Is it accessible via public transportation?
Yes, the start point is near public transport options, making it easy to join from most parts of Melbourne.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the tour includes a booklet, but you should bring your own food and drinks.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, the experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Words

This Melbourne Crime and Gangsters tour is perfect for history lovers, crime buffs, or anyone eager to see Melbourne through a different lens. Its blend of storytelling, historic sites, and lively anecdotes makes it a lively, insightful way to spend a couple of hours. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local wanting to know more about your city’s shadowy past, this tour provides an engaging and authentic experience that’s hard to beat.

If you enjoy detailed stories, authentic architecture, and a bit of Melbourne’s secret history, this tour is well worth considering. It’s a compact, fun, and educational journey into a lesser-known chapter of Melbourne’s colorful past.