5 Spooky Stories That Haunt Melbourne
Melbourne may be famous for its thriving arts scene, coffee culture, and hidden laneways, but beneath the surface lies a treasure trove of eerie tales and haunted places. From restless spirits to strange happenings in historic buildings, these spine-chilling stories are sure to give you goosebumps. Here are five of Melbourne’s most famous spooky legends.
1. The Ghosts of Old Melbourne Gaol
The Old Melbourne Gaol is one of the city’s most infamous locations, known for housing and executing some of Australia’s most notorious criminals. Built in the mid-1800s, this grim institution was where Ned Kelly, the legendary bushranger, met his end in 1880. But Kelly isn’t the only spirit said to linger within the gaol’s thick stone walls. Many inmates were hanged here, and it’s believed that some of their tortured souls never left. Visitors and staff frequently report feeling cold spots in the execution chamber, hearing disembodied whispers, and even spotting shadowy figures that seem to watch them from dark corners. The gaol’s eerie atmosphere is enough to send shivers down your spine, especially at night.
2. Princess Theatre and the Ghost of Frederick Federici
The Princess Theatre, one of Melbourne’s most opulent and historic venues, is also home to one of the city's most famous ghost stories. On March 3, 1888, during a performance of Faust, actor Frederick Federici took on the role of Mephistopheles, the devil himself. In the final scene, as Federici’s character descended into the underworld, he suffered a fatal heart attack. Strangely, although he died backstage, many in the cast claimed they saw him join the curtain call, bowing with the rest of the cast as if nothing had happened. Federici’s spirit is said to still wander the theatre, particularly in the upper levels. Numerous actors and staff have reported glimpses of his ghost, and some even believe that his presence brings good luck to the shows.
3. The Haunted Bookshop on McKillop Street
Hidden away in a quiet lane in the heart of Melbourne, the Haunted Bookshop is a paradise for lovers of rare books and the supernatural. The shop, which specializes in books about the occult, history, and metaphysical topics, is also home to something otherworldly. According to both staff and visitors, the shop has long been a hotspot for paranormal activity. Books have been known to fall off shelves with no explanation, and mysterious noises can be heard when the shop is empty. Some say the spirit of a woman from the early 20th century haunts the building, quietly watching over the collection of old books. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, there’s no denying the strange atmosphere that fills the room. Unfortunately, the bookshop closed in 2019, but it’s unique story is still known throughout Melbourne today!
4. Chloe’s Ghost at the Young & Jackson Hotel
One of Melbourne’s oldest and most well-known pubs, the Young & Jackson Hotel, is home to the famous painting of Chloe, a striking nude portrait that has hung in the pub since the early 1900s. While the painting itself draws countless admirers, many believe that Chloe’s presence is more than just artistic. According to legend, Chloe was a French model who died tragically young, and her spirit now lingers around the pub. Staff and patrons have reported feeling sudden chills when near the painting, as well as sensing an invisible presence. Though Chloe’s ghost is not thought to be malevolent, the quiet eeriness she brings to the pub is unmistakable, adding a mysterious touch to this popular venue.
5. The Phantom of Flinders Street Station
Every day, thousands of commuters pass through Flinders Street Station, Melbourne’s busiest transport hub. But below the bustling platforms, a darker history lies hidden. The station’s underground tunnels are said to be haunted by the spirit of a man named George, who died tragically on the tracks in the early 1900s. Station workers have reported hearing footsteps in empty corridors late at night and feeling a strange presence when walking through the tunnels. Some even claim to have seen shadowy figures disappearing into the walls. The eerie silence of the deserted tunnels is in stark contrast to the lively station above, making it the perfect setting for a ghostly encounter.
While these ghostly tales are sure to send shivers down your spine, Melbourne offers much more to explore. If you're keen to uncover the city's history (without the paranormal chills), consider joining one of our pay-as-you-feel walking tours. Departing from Federation Square every day except Sunday at 11 AM, these tours are led by passionate locals who will guide you through Melbourne's laneways, historic sites, and hidden gems. While we’ll touch briefly on the spooky side of the city, you’ll get to experience Melbourne’s vibrant culture in a fun and flexible way!
