The Lock-Up

The Lock-Up is a contemporary and experimental arts space in Cooks Hill, Newcastle, operating from a former police station and lock-up on Awabakal and Worimi Country. Its programme brings together exhibitions, live performance, artist discussions, opening events and other public activities, with contemporary work shown across spaces shaped by the building’s history. The organisation also supports artists in residence and offers excursion bookings, including guided exhibition tours and tours paired with creative workshops.

The building’s past is central to the visit rather than a backdrop. Completed in 1861, it was part of the Newcastle Police Station complex and remained in use until the station closed in 1982. The site later became the Hunter Heritage Centre before The Lock-Up relaunched in 2014 as a dedicated multidisciplinary contemporary arts space. Its history includes additions made through the nineteenth century, a second storey built over the front section in 1890, and the later extension of the cells.

Several original areas remain especially distinctive. The cell block includes rare examples of mid-1800s cell types, along with graffiti and markings left by detainees. One cell is described as the last unchanged example from the original 1861 building, while the padded cell, added in 1893, is recognised as the best-preserved colonial-era example of its kind in Australia. These dark, enclosed rooms now provide settings for multidisciplinary installations, creating a strong contrast with the purpose-built Main Gallery and its more conventional exhibition format.

The former exercise yard adds another layer to the experience. Its steel overhead structure, made after escapes in 1928 and 1946, is now used for live programming, panel discussions, performances, parties and other events. That combination of contemporary art and a preserved former place of confinement makes The Lock-Up suited to visitors who enjoy exhibitions with a clear sense of place, as well as students and organised groups using its education offerings. Solo visitors, art-focused outings and small groups can all engage with the galleries at their own pace, while the changing programme gives returning visitors a reason to come back.