Justice and Police Museum, Sydney
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the historic precinct of Circular Quay in Sydney, the Justice and Police Museum offers a gripping insight into the darker side of Australia’s past. Housed in the former Water Police Court (1856), Water Police Station (1858), and the Water Police Lock-up (1886), this museum captivates visitors with its rich and sometimes eerie history.
Walking through the sandstone building, tourists can explore a collection of criminal relics, forensic evidence, and a vast archive of mugshot photographs from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum's exhibitions delve into notorious criminal cases, law enforcement history, and the evolution of the justice system in New South Wales.
The museum's highlights include the original 1890s charge room, the eerie corridors of the remand cells, and the historic courtroom where many a dramatic legal battle was waged. One can almost hear the echoes of the past as they stand in the dock or witness stand, imagining the intense courtroom dramas that unfolded within these walls.
Visitors can also learn about the lives of the policemen and women, the daily challenges they faced, and the strategies they employed to solve crimes. Interactive displays and vintage police uniforms add to the immersive experience, allowing guests to step back in time and understand the social fabric of bygone Sydney.
Perfect for history buffs and those with a penchant for true crime, the Justice and Police Museum is a unique attraction that offers a compelling look at Sydney's underbelly. It's a sobering reminder of the human stories behind the criminal statistics and a testament to the city's complex law enforcement heritage.
Justice and Police Museum – popular in the area (distance from the attraction)
Nearby attractions include: Government House, Argyle Stores, Museum of Contemporary Art, Museum of Sydney.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is Justice and Police Museum open?
- Monday closed
- Tuesday closed
- Wednesday closed
- Thursday closed
- Friday closed
- Saturday 10 am - 5 pm
- Sunday 10 am - 5 pm
Which popular attractions are close to Justice and Police Museum?
How to get to Justice and Police Museum by public transport?
Bus
- Circular Quay • Lines: 302, 303 (1 min walk)
- Stand A, Circular Quay, Alfred Street • Lines: 302, 303, 326 (1 min walk)
Train
- Circular Quay (3 min walk)
- Martin Place (11 min walk)
Ferry
- Circular Quay Wharf 2 • Lines: F2, F7 (3 min walk)
- Circular Quay Wharf 3 • Lines: F1 (3 min walk)
Light rail
- Circular Quay • Lines: L2, L3 (3 min walk)
- Bridge Street • Lines: L2, L3 (8 min walk)