In Glenrowan you'll find the Ned Kelly Discovery Hub, filled with information and interactive exhibits.

Did you know that Wangaratta and its surrounds has its own Ned Kelly Touring Route? This treasure trove of Australian history takes you back in time to the late-1800s when Ned and his gang were running amok through the Victorian High Country.  

The Kelly Gang’s legacy was formed over two years between 1878 and 1880, but the Route in question spans all the way from Melbourne to southern New South Wales.  

Along the way, you’ll discover the Old Melbourne Gaol, Victoria Police Museum, Stringybark Creek, and Beveridge – Ned’s first home – among many other points of interest. 

So, pack up the family and jump in the car because we’re about to take you on an unforgettable journey that offers a greater appreciation for life in “the olden days.” 

Old Melbourne Gaol 

As you depart Melbourne, start your day at the former site of 133 hangings, including yours truly, Ned Kelly himself. This powerful bluestone building resides opposite the Russell Street Police Headquarters and welcomes thousands of visitors every year.  

Now famous for its haunted ghost stories and informative tours, the Gaol is open every day from 10am to 5pm. 

On these tours, you’ll have the opportunity to see incredible artefacts such as Ned’s death mask, the last revolver he ever used, and a cell dedicated to telling his story.  

Victoria Police Museum 

Also found in Melbourne city is this pivotal precinct to the history of our servicemen and women. Some people see Ned Kelly as a hero, while others a villain, but there were many more heroes surrounding his story and they wore an equally recognisable uniform.  

The museum holds forensic exhibits including Ned’s blood-stained bag, to the armour worn by his fellow bushrangers. You’ll find all of this and more in the Docklands at 313 Spencer Street.  

The Ned Kelly Discovery Hub serves as a key source of knowledge and personal accounts.

Beveridge 

Ned Kelly’s first home was built by his father, Red. The rundown old abode is found roughly 40km north of Melbourne, and Red’s favourite watering hole, The Hunter Tryst, is still open for business nearby. While you’re in town, keep a lookout for the bluestone church on the hill where Ned and his siblings attended school! 

Kilmore 

Making your way up the Northern Highway from Beveridge, Kilmore hosts the jail where Red spent six months after being found in possession of meat for which he could not account. There are no prizes for guessing how he acquired such a luxury back in 1865! 

Avenel  

In 1865, a 10-year-old Ned Kelly was hailed a hero for saving a younger boy from drowning in the Hughes Creek. The boy’s family awarded Ned with a long, green silk sash which Ned later wore during the Glenrowan Seige. That same sash can now be found at Benalla’s Costume and Kelly Museum just an hour up the road.  

Benalla 

Speaking of Benalla, this was the closest major town to Ned’s home, making it the epicentre for his days as a bushranger. The Museum includes a portable cell once used to hold Ned, along with a collection of other cool artefacts.  

The town offers a great opportunity to roam through the Kelly Gang’s history, including the cemetery where gang member Joe Byrne is buried; the courthouse where the Kelly family often appeared; and the bootmaker where Ned once fought several coppers.  

Make sure to visit the Information Centre for a booklet that details all these precious historical sites.  

Stringybark Creek 

On October 26, 1878, this unassuming creek witnessed a shootout between police and the Kelly Gang which resulted in the deaths of three police officers. There is now a memorial and a 1.4km historical work at Mansfield where the officers are buried. This even lay the foundations for a two-year manhunt which eventually ended with the Glenrowan Seige, but we’ll get to that soon... 

El Dorado and the Woolshed Valley 

Aside from preserving some terrific history from the gold rush of the 1850s and 60s, the Woolshed Valley also holds an important piece of history in the Kelly Gang’s run from the law.  

Here you’ll find a murder scene, The Kelly Cave, and the police caves where watch parties camped out. 

Visitors can stroll through the Eldorado Museum for a tapestry of information on the gold rush and the Kelly Gang’s movements.  

Glenrowan  

The town you’ve been waiting for. If you joined the touring route from Melbourne, you’ve now travelled more than 300km to find yourself at the crescendo of the Kelly Gang’s reign. 

On June 28, 1880, the Kelly Gang was cornered at the Ann Jones Inn where three of the Gang were killed in a shootout with the police.  

Ned was spared with 28 gunshot wounds and taken into custody from which he wouldn’t escape.  

Discover the Ned Kelly Touring Route 

Not so fast! We’re not going to spill all the secrets left behind by Ned Kelly and the Gang. You’re going to have to venture out and discover them for yourself.  

Find the Route booklet online or visit the Ned Kelly Discovery Hub and get on the road to Glenrowan and beyond. There is so much history to soak up in Wangaratta and its surrounds, so don’t put off planning a trip to Victoria’s High Country.