Creepy Tales, Bars & Laneways Of Melbourne Walking Tour - The Sum Up

Creepy Tales, Bars & Laneways Of Melbourne Walking Tour

Explore Melbourne’s Creepiest Secrets with a Guide

If you’re craving a different side of Melbourne that combines history, mystery, and a touch of the macabre, the Creepy Tales, Bars & Laneways Of Melbourne Walking Tour offers just that. For around $44, you’ll spend about three hours exploring the city’s darker corners, from Queen Victoria Market to Fed Square, with a knowledgeable guide who keeps the stories lively and engaging.

What we love about this experience is how it balances chilling stories with authentic local spots. The stops at three hidden laneway bars give you a taste of Melbourne’s thriving bar scene — but with the added thrill of spooky tales. Plus, the small-group format ensures you get plenty of personal attention and can easily catch every eerie detail.

A potential consideration is the walking pace and uneven surfaces — this tour isn’t suited for those with mobility issues, and comfortable shoes are a must. Also, since drinks are at your own expense, budget accordingly if you’re planning to indulge at these secretive spots.

This tour best suits travelers who enjoy mysterious stories, historical intrigue, and hidden Melbourne gems. If you’re a fan of ghost stories or unique local bars, this experience offers a memorable mix of both, making it perfect for curious explorers and those looking for some spooky fun after dark.

Key Points

  • Authentic storytelling from local guides who blend humor with history.
  • Visits to Melbourne’s hidden laneway bars with spooky tales behind each.
  • Small group size (max 10) for a personalized experience.
  • Balance of walking and drinking stops to keep things lively.
  • Includes a map of Melbourne’s best bars for your own exploration later.
  • Ideal for fans of paranormal stories and off-the-beaten-path nightlife.

An In-Depth Look at the Creepy Tales, Bars & Laneways of Melbourne Tour

Creepy Tales, Bars & Laneways Of Melbourne Walking Tour - An In-Depth Look at the Creepy Tales, Bars & Laneways of Melbourne Tour

What’s the core of this experience?

This is a three-hour guided walking tour that takes you through Melbourne’s shadowy past and its coolest hidden bars. Led by guides like Bridget or Tess, the tour begins at Queen Victoria Market, a lively and historic spot, where your guide sets the tone with stories of Melbourne’s first cemeteries and dark secrets buried beneath the city streets.

From there, the journey moves through sites like the Old Melbourne Gaol — notorious for executions and haunted tales — and the bustling Chinatown, which once grappled with crime, opium dens, and vice. Along the way, you’ll stop at three different laneway bars, each with its own unique spooky tale, blending Melbourne’s lively nightlife with chilling legends.

What makes this tour stand out?

One of the best features is the combination of storytelling and social drinks. Yes, you’ll pause at cozy, hidden bars to sip a drink (at your own expense), but these aren’t just any pubs — they are Melbourne’s secret gems. Several reviews mention how these stops are more than just a drink; they’re part of the story. For example, one guest loved the fairy-tale-inspired bar, a perfect blend of whimsy and darkness.

Another highlight is the guides’ depth of local knowledge. Reviews repeatedly praise guides like Brigette and Tess for their engaging storytelling, mixing facts with humor, and making history feel alive. One reviewer said, “Bridget was very knowledgeable and informative,” while another called Tess “warm, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable.” This personal touch elevates the experience from a simple walk to a memorable adventure.

The itinerary — a detailed walk-through

Stop 1: Queen Victoria Market — You’ll meet your guide here, and the spooky tales start right at the historic market. The story about the first cemetery beneath the market floors gives you a chilling sense of Melbourne’s darker past, setting the tone for the rest of the tour.

Stop 2: The Oxford Scholar — Outside this gold rush pub, the guide discusses Melbourne’s morgue history, hinting at the city’s long-standing relationship with death and burials. It’s a brief stop but packed with facts.

Stop 3: Old Melbourne Gaol — This former jail is one of the most haunted places in the city. You’ll learn about the 135+ executions, the most famous residents, and the ghost stories tied to its stone walls. Visitors are often captivated by these tales; one review mentions the “grisly role” the Gaol played in Melbourne’s past.

Stop 4: Chinatown — The oldest continuous Chinatown in the world, once a hotbed of crime, opium, and vice. The guide shares dark stories of crime and intrigue, which remain part of its history today.

Stop 5: Southern Cross Lane — Here, stories of Melbourne’s first marketplace, once a bustling freak show and carnival, come to life. The tale of a famous murder that took place here adds a visceral element to the walk.

Stop 6: Pink Alley — Known for ghostly legends, this lane is home to the spirit of a young woman murdered in brutal circumstances. Many find this story particularly haunting.

Stop 7: The Capitol — Once Hollywood’s hottest wartime bar, it has a dark past linked to Melbourne’s wartime serial killer. It’s a fitting stop for a mix of nightlife history and ghostly lore.

Stop 8: 277-279 Flinders Lane — This stretch is packed with some of Melbourne’s best cocktail bars. The guide might share a scary tale or two here, ending the night with a drink at one of the city’s top spots.

Stop 9: Hosier Lane — Known worldwide for graffiti art, the laneway also has a ghost story about one of Melbourne’s most infamous slasher victims. It’s a visual and spooky contrast.

Stop 10: Fed Square — The tour concludes at this iconic site, home to stories about ghosts of prostitutes, fishermen, and bodies hidden in boxes. It’s a fitting end to a journey into Melbourne’s darker side.

What are the reviews telling us?

Most guests are enthusiastic. Many praise guides for their wealth of knowledge and entertaining style. One said, “Tess was awesome and provided lots of creepy stories,” while another mentioned Bridgette’s great local insight. The small group size enhances the experience — everyone feels part of the story rather than just a number.

Several reviews mention the value of the stops, especially how the bar visits add a fun and unexpected dimension. One guest notes that the tour “made me look at Melbourne with new eyes,” highlighting how the stories and hidden venues change your perspective on this city.

Considerations and tips

While most reviews praise the experience, a few mention that the stories aren’t too spooky — so if you’re expecting ghost stories that send shivers, you might find the tales more atmospheric than terrifying. Also, walking on uneven surfaces means comfortable shoes are a must, especially if you plan to explore Melbourne afterward.

Since drinks are at your own cost (unless you purchased a package that includes them), budget accordingly. Some guests found the curated menus lacking prices, which they found a little shady, but this has been addressed by the tour operator.

Who should sign up?

This tour is ideal for history buffs, pub lovers, and anyone eager to see Melbourne’s unusual side. If ghost stories and hidden bars excite you, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate guides with a good mix of humor and insight, making the dark tales easy to digest.

The Sum Up

Creepy Tales, Bars & Laneways Of Melbourne Walking Tour - The Sum Up

The Creepy Tales, Bars & Laneways Of Melbourne Walking Tour is a fantastic choice for travelers wanting to combine history, mystery, and a taste of Melbourne’s secret nightlife. With engaging guides, well-chosen stops, and a small-group vibe, it offers both entertainment and authentic local flavor. The stories are well-told, the bars are intriguing, and the overall experience provides a memorable way to see Melbourne’s darker side.

While not a ghost-hunting expedition, it’s perfect for those who enjoy spooky stories with a side of socializing. It’s also an excellent value, especially considering the personalized attention and access to hidden venues you won’t find on your own. If you love uncovering local secrets and experiencing the city’s unique character after hours, this tour is well worth your time.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
No, the minimum age is 18, mainly because of the drinking stops and mature themes in some stories.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, including walking, storytelling, and stops at bars.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks are at your own expense unless you purchase a package that provides them. Some stops may have curated menus without prices, so plan accordingly.

Is the tour accessible for people with walking disabilities?
Due to uneven surfaces and walking involved, it’s not recommended for those with walking disabilities.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Queen Victoria Market and finishes at Fed Square, both easily accessible via public transport.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. Melbourne weather can vary, so check the forecast and bring an umbrella if needed.