Albany Indoors – where the fun never depends on the forecast
Whether the sun’s out or the clouds roll in, Albany is bursting with things to do. Step inside and let your curiosity lead the way—roll up your sleeves for a hands-on cooking class, get messy in a clay-splattered pottery session, enjoy visiting a cellar door, or follow flickering lanterns on a ghost tour full of intrigue. From relaxing pamper sessions to inspiring creative spaces, Albany’s got the perfect mix of fun, flair, and feel-good experiences—whatever the weather. This is just a selection of what we have to offer Indoors in Albany.
Kirby's Cooking Classes
A Unique Culinary Experience in the Heart of Albany
Join classically trained chef Frederick Kirby at Kirby’s Atelier de Cuisine for an unforgettable hands-on cooking experience. With decades of experience in Michelin-starred restaurants and award-winning wineries across Europe and Australia, Frederick brings world-class expertise to an elegant, welcoming kitchen in the heart of Albany. These inspiring classes cater to all skill levels and celebrate both global flavours and the stunning produce of the Great Southern. Whether you’re mastering French classics, exploring the spices of Morocco, or perfecting a Sunday roast, each session blends professional technique with warmth, humour, and creativity. Winner of multiple Gold Plate Awards and featured in the Good Food Guide and Lonely Planet, Kirby’s classes offer so much more than a recipe—they’re a joyful, skill-building experience that leaves you with confidence, connection, and incredible food. These engaging hands-on classes are perfect for visitors wanting to learn something new while discovering the rich flavours of the Great Southern. You’ll work with premium local produce and learn professional techniques in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a confident home cook, these classes offer a fun, social way to boost your kitchen skills and create restaurant-quality dishes you’ll be proud to recreate.
Albany Convict Gaol Museum
Step Inside History: Walk the Walls of Albany’s Convict Past
Uncover chilling tales from the past, right in the heart of town, at this well-preserved gaol which was once home to transported convicts, warders and prisoners whose stories still echo through its walls. Wander through original cell blocks, peek into the old kitchen and laundry, and don’t miss the timber-lined Aboriginal cells with carvings thought to be the oldest of their kind in the country. Explore the female cells, great hall, and guard tower, and discover stories of hardship, resilience and reform. Friendly volunteer staff are on hand with rich local knowledge to bring it all to life. It’s a surprisingly family-friendly experience—interactive displays, historical role play areas and friendly volunteer staff make it easy to explore at your own pace. Even young kids love it (some don’t want to leave!). For the brave, stay after dark and try the Albany Self-Guided Ghost Tour—a spine-tingling walk through one of WA’s most haunted locations. Whether you’re a local, a visitor, or a curious historian, the Albany Convict Gaol Museum, built in 1852, is a unique and memorable way to spend an afternoon. Open daily from 10am to 4pm. History awaits. This isn’t just a museum—it’s an experience that connects you to the human stories behind the history, making your visit both educational and unforgettable.
Patrick Taylor’s Cottage
Albany’s Oldest Home – A Window Into the Past
Step off the streets of modern Albany and into the world of 1832, where every creaking floorboard and handmade nail tells a story. A visit to Patrick Taylor Cottage is a journey back nearly 200 years, offering one of the most authentic glimpses into early colonial life in Western Australia. Built in 1832, this beautifully preserved wattle and daub home is the oldest surviving dwelling in the state, and an essential stop for historians, heritage travellers, and families alike. Step inside eleven fully furnished rooms filled with over 2,000 artefacts—from handmade tools and clothing to silverware and delicate porcelain. Stand on the original pit-sawn jarrah floors, walk through rooms where Patrick Taylor, his wife Mary Yates Bussell, and their six children once lived, and absorb the rich details that bring this history to life. Children will be fascinated by how different life was in the 1830s, while history lovers will appreciate the rare construction methods and deep colonial roots. Surrounded by a lovingly maintained cottage garden, the home is a credit to the Albany Historical Society and the dedicated volunteer staff, whose knowledge and passion make each visit unforgettable. Open daily from 11am to 3pm. Patrick Taylor Cottage is a true Albany treasure—don’t miss it.
Infinite Earth Spirit Tarot
Tarot Readings in a Sanctuary of Crystals, Colour and Calm
A sanctuary of crystals, colour and calm awaits in the heart of Albany. Located on Peels Place, Infinite Earth Spirit is a warm, welcoming space designed to nourish the soul and spark curiosity. Step inside and explore a vibrant mix of crystals, jewellery, incense, natural body products, books, clothing, and unique spiritual gifts—sourced with care from near and far. The shop invites you to slow down and connect, offering a gentle escape from the noise of everyday life. From singing bowls to dreamcatchers, tarot cards to essential oils, every corner is filled with textures, colours and energy that invite you to wander and discover. Looking for clarity or guidance? Marie offers personal tarot readings on select days, available as 30- or 60-minute sessions. These readings offer a thoughtful space to reflect, ask questions, and reconnect with your inner wisdom. Whether you’re navigating change, seeking insight, or simply curious, a tarot reading can be a meaningful part of your visit. Walk-ins are welcome when available, or book ahead to secure a spot. Run with genuine care and kindness, Infinite Earth Spirit is as much about people as it is about products. You’ll leave feeling uplifted—and maybe with something unexpectedly perfect.
Albany Gaol Ghost Tour
Albany Convict Gaol Ghost Tour. Enter After Dark… If You Dare!
On select nights, the historic Albany Convict Gaol opens after dark for a chilling self-guided ghost tour through one of Western Australia’s most haunted heritage sites. This self-guided tour offers you the freedom to explore, uncovering the gaol’s rich history and hidden stories. Whether you’re a history lover, a thrill-seeker, or a skeptic—the experience will stay with you. Will you uncover the secrets that lie within its walls? The night is yours to discover. Built in 1852, many say the past hasn’t fully let go. Wander through the candlelit corridors at your own pace. Though other brave souls may be nearby, the shadows are yours to face. Visitors have long reported unexplained sounds: knocks, footsteps on empty floorboards, whispers in the dark, and doors slamming with no breeze. Some speak of feeling watched, others of something brushing past them in the shadows. Hear the whispers in Cell 25… Enter the pitch-black Black Hole, where 20 men were once confined. Visitors often report cold spots, flickering lights, phantom touches, and even the brush of a ghostly cat near Room 5. Not for the faint-hearted. This is not a performance. It’s real history—and real mystery. Bring a torch, check upcoming dates, and prepare for the unexpected.
Alkoomi Cellar Door Experience
The Alkoomi Cellar Door Experience - Grazing and Tasting!
Looking for a relaxed bite with local flavour? Alkoomi’s cellar door on Lower Stirling Terrace offers a warm, welcoming space to pause and enjoy the best of the Great Southern—on a plate and in a glass. Enjoy a light grazing experience with a premium local cheese plate, fresh crusty bread, and Alkoomi’s own estate-pressed extra virgin olive oil. Complement your plate with artisan dukkah and relishes, each bursting with character and available to purchase in store. While you graze, sip your way through a guided tasting flight of Alkoomi’s cool-climate wines. From crisp, expressive Rieslings and vibrant Sauvignon Blancs to their signature plush Shiraz and complex, small-batch reds, there’s something to suit every palate. The wines come from vines planted at the Frankland River estate for over 50 years across three generations. The family's commitment to sustainable practices and low-intervention winemaking shines through in every bottle. Whether you’re meeting a friend for a casual catch-up or discovering your new favourite wine, the relaxed atmosphere and knowledgeable team make every visit personal and memorable. After your tasting, browse the thoughtfully curated shop stocked with hand-labelled olive oil, beautiful locally made giftware, and picnic-ready gift packs. Open Monday to Saturday, 11:00 am to 5:00 pm | Lower Stirling Terrace, Albany
