Would you stay in a prison with your kids? We did… and LOVED it.
If you’re planning a family weekend away that feels fun and easy, you don’t have to travel far to find something special. Adina Apartment Hotel Pentridge in Coburg is one of those places that surprises you in the best way!
Set inside the walls of the historic Pentridge Prison, it’s been transformed into a family-friendly spot full of charm, comfort and little luxuries.
If you’re looking for Melbourne accommodation that ticks all the boxes for families, keep reading.
A Melbourne Hotel with a Fascinating Past
We found a family-friendly hotel inside a former prison — and it’s not what you’d expect.
Yes, Pentridge Prison has a notorious past and only closed in 1997. But trust us, this is one of the most unique stays in Melbourne — and it’s more “stylish family escape” than spooky history lesson.
While you can still see the original bluestone walls and heritage buildings around the site, the rooms themselves are sleek, modern, and super comfy.
There’s a sense of quiet behind the walls, which makes it feel like a peaceful retreat from busy city life.
And if your kids are curious about the history? There are plaques and info dotted around the Pentridge precinct to spark their imagination.
National Trust also runs family-friendly and after dark Pentridge Prison tours, so it’s a great chance to mix a bit of local learning with your weekend away.
This hotel actually works for families – here’s why
Tired of cramming your family into one tiny hotel room? SAME.
Travelling with kids means space matters. You need room to spread out, store snacks, park the pram, and maybe even hide from your toddler for a minute….
Adina Pentridge delivers!
Each apartment-style suite has a kitchenette (yes, there’s a full-size fridge, dishwasher, cook top and microwave), a washing machine, and plenty of space to chill.
One-bedroom apartments can sleep a family of four, but the two-bedroom options are ideal if you’ve got bigger kids or just want a bit of extra space.
Our two-bedroom apartment includes a Queen size bed in one bedroom and a King size bed (split into 2 singles) in the second bedroom. Parents, you’ll love the blackout curtains – not a peek of light is visible when it’s ready for bedtime.
Plus, there’s TVs in every room for winding down after a big day out.
So if you’re looking for accommodation in Coburg or Melbourne that works with nap times, snack attacks, and unpredictable bedtimes? This is it.
Thoughtful Extras for a Smooth Family Stay
In addition to spacious, chic rooms, Adina Hotel Pentridge has thought through what families need.
Do not miss the stunning heated indoor pool set inside one of the former prison wings! It’s not directly connected to the Adina (rather it’s in the ‘Interlude’ part of the hotel) so you’ll need to grab an access pass from the hotel reception ie your room key won’t let you into the pool area.
The water is a balmy temperature, the maximum depth is 1.5m and the setting is so atmospheric (without being creepy). There are accessible change rooms but no spa or sauna facilities.
The pool is a great option if the weather turns or you just need to burn off some kid energy before bedtime. Choose a non-peak time to visit and you might just have the whole place to yourself!
Adjoining the heated pool is a small narrow fitness area, but the corridor has no natural light and holds limited appeal for our teens (who are normally keen to hit the treadmill).
There’s on-site parking (which you can pre-book), 24-hour reception if you need anything late at night, and elevators to make things pram-friendly. The staff are super friendly and happy to help if you need extra bedding or local tips.
Family Food Options Right on Site
Hungry kids? No problem. The on-site North & COMMON restaurant is just downstairs and serves breakfast for hotel guests as well as dinner Tuesday to Saturday, with plenty of options for even the pickiest eaters.
We enjoy breakfast and dinner at the restaurant and am impressed by the quality and presentation of the food. The kids meals come out quickly and serving sizes are just right.
The kids highly recommend the pancakes!
Want to try other eateries close by? There are cafés and restaurants within Pentridge precinct such as Melbourne brunch favourite The Boot Factory and the huge Brewdog indoor bar/outdoor beer garden offering craft beers and a pub favourites menu.
You’re also within walking distance of shops and supermarkets too, so stocking up on snacks or grabbing takeaway is easy.
Things to do in Pentridge Coburg
Adina Apartment Hotel Coburg is smack-bang in the middle of the Pentridge precinct, which means there’s more than just a comfy bed waiting.
There is loads to do without leaving the precinct! It’s like staying in a mini village with everything close by — perfect for families who don’t want to pack the car again once they’ve arrived.
Pentridge Prison Tours
We highly recommend the historical Pentridge Prison tours run by National Trust. Tours run Thursday to Monday, with Night Tours running Thursday to Saturday.
The Prison Break Explorers tour is made just for kids and runs on Sundays or daily during school holidays.
Our guide shows us details and regales us with stories during our 1 hour tour, culminating in a scavenger hunt in H block. Complete the clues and get your certificate from the main office!
Palace Cinemas Pentridge
Another highlight is the plush Pentridge Palace Cinemas, screening art house films and family favourites. They’ve also hosted outdoor cinema screenings previously, so keep an eye out for the summer schedule.
Pentridge Playground
All year around you can enjoy the open green space for kids to run around with a small wooden playground and push-button water sprinklers for hot days.
Coburg Farmers Market
Just outside Pentridge’s walls is Coburg Farmers Market which is on every Saturday 8am-1pm. It’s a great place to stock up on fresh produce and artisan foods while the kids roam and play in the playground of Coburg Primary School.
Coburg Leisure Centre
If you just can’t enough pool action, Coburg Leisure Centre is a short walk away. For a very affordable entry fee you can enjoy indoor pools, spa and steam room and gym. There’s also a child care centre and cafe onsite.
Close to Melbourne’s Best Family Attractions
One of the best things about this accommodation is its location.
You’re just 8km from Melbourne’s city centre, so you can access lots of major attractions without having to be in the thick of the CBD. That means Melbourne Zoo, Scienceworks, and the Melbourne Museum are all an easy drive away — or jump on a tram or train.
Want to stay local? Coburg Lake Reserve is only a few minutes down the road. It’s got a huge playground, ducks to feed, and plenty of space for a picnic.
The Merri Creek Trail is also nearby for a family-friendly walk or scoot – and you can even hire bikes from the hotel for your explorations! Just note the bikes are adult sized.
Head to nearby Brunswick for cool cafes and family-friendly breweries or Preston Market for a foodie’s paradise that often runs family-friendly festivals and kids school holiday workshops.
CERES Community Environment Park, just 15 minutes away, for a hands-on experience with chickens, gardens, and eco workshops.
There’s something about this part of Melbourne that feels relaxed and real — perfect for a low-fuss, high-fun family break.
Book Your Family Fun Escape at Adina Pentridge
If you’re hunting for accommodation in Coburg that’s stylish and suits families, Adina Apartment Hotel Pentridge is a winner. Even better, book directly with the hotel to find out about their latest family packages and special offers. It’s well worth checking what’s available for your dates!
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape, school holiday staycation, or just need a change of scenery with the kids, we reckon you’ll love your stay at Adina Hotel Pentridge!
It’s fun, easy, and has everything you need close by – the perfect location for a memorable family staycation.
Pentridge Prison Tour – Prison Break Explorers for Kids
Preston Market: A Local Gem for Food, Fun + Fresh Finds
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