History Tours
Walk the stories that shaped a nation.
For over 150 years, the Quarantine Station was the first stop in Australia for many immigrants embarking on a new life after long and arduous journeys from their homelands. Ships carrying passengers suspected of contagious diseases -such as Spanish Influenza, Smallpox, or Bubonic Plague – were quarantined here to protect the wider Sydney community. While this practice was ultimately a success for the growing city, it left a lasting mark on those who experienced it firsthand. Stories of love and loss unfold alongside narratives of cultural and social change, as well as medical history and progress.
Discover more about this fascinating history on our public history tours, available for booking online or in person at our Visitor Centre. Group tours are also available by prior arrangement.
Q Station is a proud Probus Member Benefits Scheme Approved Partner. Present your Probus card when booking to enjoy a discount on your next tour. For enquiries, email us at toursdesk@qstation.com.au
QUARANTINE WANDER HISTORY TOUR
Discover over 150 years of arrivals, hope and new beginnings. This morning tour explores the historic Wharf Precinct – the heart of the Quarantine Station’s story. Walk among heritage buildings and hear the powerful stories of migrants who journeyed to Australia in search of a new life. Tours go ahead in all weather conditions, don’t forget your raincoat and umbrella!
Buy 1 Get 1 Half Price until August. Sunday to Friday only.
Date & Time:
Monday – Thursday 11:00am
Friday – Sunday 10:00am
Duration: 60 minutes
Adult $30
Concession $25
QUARANTINE STATION STORY
Uncover the layers of history beneath the surface.
This 1.5-hour guided walking tour explores the Quarantine Station’s heritage buildings, from its crucial medical and political role to the social divides that shaped life on site. Visit former passenger accommodation and trace how society evolved within these historic grounds. Step beyond the surface and see the station as it truly was.
Date & Time: Saturdays 3:00pm
Duration: 90 minutes
Adult $45
Concession $39
SKIP THROUGH QUARANTINE FAMILY TOUR
Experience 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.
Date & Time:
Sunday 6th September 11:00am
Duration: 60 minutes
Adult $30
QUARANTINE STATION STORY
Uncover the layers of history beneath the surface.
This 1.5-hour guided walking tour explores the Quarantine Station’s heritage buildings, from its crucial medical and political role to the social divides that shaped life on site. Visit former passenger accommodation and trace how society evolved within these historic grounds. Step beyond the surface and see the station as it truly was.
Date & Time: Saturdays 3:00pm
Duration: 90 minutes
Adult $45
Concession $39
SUNDAYS AT THE STATION
Sundays At The Station is a series of themed tours and activities celebrating Q Station’s history and surroundings. Each event offers a unique experience for locals, guests, and day visitors. The next event, Spooky Day in October, is coming up – book early, spots are limited!
10:00am: Spookyween -Trick or Treat Hunt
6:00pm: Ghost Trackers Kids Tour
8:00pm Ghostly Encounters Adults Tour
Date & Time:
Sunday 25th October: Spooky Day
Sunday 6th December: Harbour Day
GROUP HISTORY TOURS
Quarantine Wander History Tour
Duration: 1-hour
Price: $30 adult • $25 concession • $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
Duration: 90-minutes
Price: $45 adults • $39 concession • $30 children
You will have the opportunity to explore more of our beautiful 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.
Additional Lunch Package $24.00pp (weekdays only)
Sandwich, cake, fruit and tea or coffee
One of Australia’s most significant heritage sites, Q Station offers a captivating excursion for your Probus or other special interest group. Our experienced guides will fascinate you with stories behind the unique history of this amazing site. All group tours and lunch bookings are prebooked and prepaid, with a minimum group size of 10 people. Groups over 20 will be split into smaller groups to ensure a personalised experience.
Please note, that all tours are walking tours that take place both inside and outside of buildings. If your group includes members with limited mobility, we encourage you to discuss available options with our team at the time of enquiry. Additionally, please allow extra time in your schedule to enter and exit the site and to explore our Visitor Centre, which features a free exhibition and café.