Having missed opening time on previous visits, I was lucky to make it when they were open this time. Check the opening times. There are tours, but you can also just wander around. This museum is one of the best I've been to in a long time. I was able to follow the story of some of the "residents" through the museum; the presentation of records is extensive, the work that has gone into the exhibits is excellent, not in technology but in personalising life in J Ward. Although I wouldn't recommend it for young children, I would say those 12 years up would get something out of it. Definitely coming back for a tour next time.

What a fantastic tour! We enjoyed a tour of all of the areas on the grounds including the gardens, the keeper's quarters, married quarters, the cells, the hanging area, the exercise yards, and the amazing museum with so many items for these times including some patient records. Your guide gives an excellent detailed account of the history of the building while you look around the area and read some of the interesting plaques that are displayed throughout the grounds. All of the volunteers that run this grand historical institute are all very knowledgeable and do a fantastic job at retelling the stories of this setting and maintaining its history. Thank you all for your hard work in keeping this amazing part of Ararat history alive for others to experience. I highly recommend a visit here if you are in the area, you will not be disappointed. I certainly will be back.

I was lucky enough to be the only person booked in on this tour so I enjoyed personalised attention from Pat, my volunteer guide. There was plenty of opportunity to ask questions and make comments though the information Pat delivered was comprehensive - and so interesting. It was a thought provoking visit. It's so important that history is not forgotten. Hopefully we can learn from it.