These convict women were silenced.
Their story lives on.

Once a place designed to control, confine and silence, the Cascades Female Factory now stands as a powerful reminder of resilience, courage and the voices that refused to disappear.

Hidden beneath kunanyi/Mount Wellington, this World Heritage-listed convict site shares the stories of thousands of convict women and children who lived, worked and endured within these yards. Walk through the spaces they once stood. Hear stories of hardship and injustice, but also strength, connection and defiance.

These walls aren’t just remnants of the past. They hold stories still waiting to be heard.

This winter, we invite you to step into the warmth of their legacy. Stand where they stood, hear the voices that refused to be broken and lend your own breath to the flame.

The Cascades Female Factory is one of Australia’s most significant convict heritage sites – sharing the extraordinary stories of the women who were transported across the world and forced into a system designed to punish and control.

But their stories are not only stories of hardship.

They are stories of resistance, resilience and humanity. More than a historic site, Cascades Female Factory is a place of reflection, connection and remembrance.

Access to the ruins and over 30 historic buildings

Immersive house museums

Regular guided tours and short walks

Scenic harbour cruise

Self-guided audio experience

Our tours and experiences.

Step inside the yards. Hear the stories. Keep their voices alive.
Upgrade your visit with one of our immersive storytelling experiences.

What others are saying:

"This was a moving and confronting experience. Although very little of the original prison remains, the site has been carefully preserved and thoughtfully presented... We chose the guided option, and while it was extremely well delivered, the raw and graphic details were confronting—at times it felt like stepping into a page of Holocaust history. It was distressing and very sad, but also incredibly important to see and reflect upon. A powerful, worthwhile visit."
- Susan W, TripAdvisor

"Mark was excellent! I was really intrigued about the site and excited to learn more about some of the main women on trial. Mark was incredibly welcoming, enthusiastic, knowledgeable and he orchestrated the tour with lots of character and suspense. I really enjoyed the tour and couldn't recommend enough! I left feeling really humbled and reflective."
- Condemned Tour reviewer, TripAdvisor

"We chose the one-hour storytelling tour at the Cascade Female Factory and it was absolutely fantastic. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, and shared the powerful stories of seven convict women who passed through the factory. The tour was engaging, moving, and beautifully told, giving real insight into an important and often overlooked part of Australian history. It was both eye-opening and inspiring. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Hobart. Thank you for such a memorable experience! "
- Liv C, TripAdvisor

Little footsteps. Big stories.

Follow Mary Mouse through the yards of Cascades Female Factory and discover the stories held within these walls.

Created for curious minds and young storytellers, Mary Mouse in the Big House invites families to explore, learn and keep these important stories alive.

Pick up your free trail at the Ticket Desk and begin your journey.

Plan your visit this winter and experience Cascades Female Factory for yourself.

The women were silenced. Their story roars on. Book your tour now.