HISTORY TOURS
What was the Quarantine Station?
For over 150 years the Quarantine Station was for many, the beginning of a new life in Australia after making the arduous & lengthy journey from their homelands. Ships suspected of harbouring people infected with contagious disease such as Spanish Influenza, Smallpox or Bubonic Plague were quarantined here so that these deadly diseases would not reach the general population in Sydney. Ultimately a success story for the growing Sydney population, it did however leave an indelible mark on those that were quarantined; tales of love and loss play out alongside themes of cultural and social change, medical history and progress.
We operate a public schedule of history tours, bookable online or in person at our onsite Visitor Centre for you to discover more about our story. Group tours are also welcome by prior arrangement.
All of our History & Ghost Tours can be booked online. If you are experiencing technical difficulties, please send your name and day time contact number via email to toursdesk@qstation.com.au and a member of the Q Station Tours team will be in contact as soon as possible, within business hours.
For over 150 years the Quarantine Station was for many, the beginning of a new life in Australia after making the arduous & lengthy journey from their homelands. Ships suspected of harbouring people infected with contagious disease such as Spanish Influenza, Smallpox or Bubonic Plague were quarantined here so that these deadly diseases would not reach the general population in Sydney. Ultimately a success story for the growing Sydney population, it did however leave an indelible mark on those that were quarantined; tales of love and loss play out alongside themes of cultural and social change, medical history and progress.
We operate a public schedule of history tours, bookable online or in person at our onsite Visitor Centre for you to discover more about our story. Group tours are also welcome by prior arrangement.
All of our History & Ghost Tours can be booked online. If you are experiencing technical difficulties, please send your name and day time contact number via email to toursdesk@qstation.com.au and a member of the Q Station Tours team will be in contact as soon as possible, within business hours.
new after dark history tour!
DISEASE + BURIAL
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Step into the intriguing world of disease, death, and burials with our captivating after dark history tour of the Quarantine Station in Manly. Nestled on the picturesque shores of Sydney Harbour, this historical site unveils the harrowing tales of those who suffered during difficult times of epidemic outbreaks.
As you embark on this nighttime journey, expert guides will lead you through the eerie corridors and winding paths of the Quarantine Station, sharing riveting stories of people’s real-life experiences and the deathly diseases that once plagued these grounds. Learn about the devastating impact of smallpox, Spanish flu, the plague and other deadly illnesses that swept through the area, leaving a trail of heartbreak and loss. Visit the grounds that hold the remains of those who succumbed to their illnesses. Uncover the rituals and practices surrounding these burials, as well as the challenges faced by healthcare workers and the community during these trying times. This unforgettable tour of disease, deaths, and burials at the Quarantine Station offers a glimpse into the darker side of history, reminding us of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. |
Price: Adult $65
Concession $59 Ages 15+ only |
SKIP THROUGH QUARANTINE
A tour especially for kids. Our guide will walk you through the historical quarantine procedure on this 1 hour tour. The Experience of arrival at the Quarantine Station on the RMS Niagara in 1921. A case of smallpox has been discovered as the boat steams into Sydney Harbour and everyone must be quarantined. Discover what life had been like on board the ship and how the arriving passengers were processed as they arrived at the Quarantine Station. Engaging and fun for the kids to discover something new.
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Wednesday – Saturdays from 20th December until 27th January Time: 12:30pm Duration: 60minutes Price: $25 child, $15 adult Adults must accompany their children during the tour. |
QUARANTINE wander
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Our Wharf Precinct is the most significant place to understand the arrival and daily operations of residents at the Quarantine Station. You’ll explore the heritage buildings and discover the stories of migrants through the 19th and 20th centuries. Meet at the Visitor’s Centre at least 15 minutes before the start of your tour and make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes!
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Time: 11am daily
Duration: 60 minutes Price: $25 concession $30 adult $15 child $80 family (2 adults, 2 children) |
SANDSTONE STORIES
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The sandstone inscriptions within Q Station’s Wharf Precinct characterise the mysterious nature of North Head Quarantine Station’s history. Together with some of the key operational quarantine buildings, the wharf precinct is the perfect place to learn more about the stories of those who have also endured times of quarantine in the past. Starts and finishes at Q Station Visitor Centre.
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Time: 3pm Saturdays
Duration: 60 minutes Price: $25 concession $30 adult $15 child $80 family (2 adults, 2 children) |
Group History tours
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One of Australia’s most significant heritage sites, Q Station provides the perfect excursion for your Probus or other special interest group. Our experienced guides will fascinate you with the stories behind the unique history of this amazing site. Lunch packages are available for booking in conjunction with your group tour. Quarantine Wander 1hour - $25 concession $30 adult/ $15 child/ $80 family (2 adults, 2 children) The most accessible of our tours, you’ll explore the heritage buildings of our wharf and hospital precincts to discover the processes that arriving migrants undertook on arrival at the quarantine station. Starts and finishes at Q Station Visitor Centre. Quarantine Station Story from 90 mins - $39 concession/ $45 adults/ $35 children On a longer tour you will have the opportunity to explore more of our beautiful harbourside national park site. As Australia’s longest continuously operating quarantine station, our site has undergone significant change over time. The Quarantine Station’s heritage buildings reflect a rich history, highlighting historical themes of gender, race and class. Regardless of the type of experience they had, the spirit forged by the people at the former Quarantine Station helped to shape our nation. Start and finish location flexible. Additional lunch package $24.00 pp Sandwich, cake, fruit, tea or coffee (available weekdays only) |
Booking details
All group tours and lunch bookings are prebooked and prepaid. Minimum group size is 10 people. Groups over 20 people will be split into smaller groups. All tours are walking tours and take place inside and outside of buildings. Please discuss options with our team at time of enquiry if there are people within your group with limited mobility. Additional time should be allowed in your schedule to enter and /or leave the site and to experience our Visitor Centre; its free exhibition and café. |
