Spies in the Capital: Women in Espionage Walking Tour

In brief, this tour offers a fascinating glimpse into Canberra’s secret past, highlighting the extraordinary women who operated behind the scenes in espionage. It’s a perfect blend of history, humor, and intrigue, told with a knowledgeable guide who clearly loves sharing these stories.

Three things we really appreciate about this experience are: the chance to explore historic yet lesser-known sites like the abandoned WWII communications bunker, the insight into Australia’s early espionage efforts, and the fun, light-hearted storytelling that makes complex history accessible.

One potential consideration is that the tour is best suited for those with a keen interest in history or espionage; it’s not designed as a family-friendly adventure for children under 16.

Overall, it’s ideal for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a different perspective on Canberra’s story.

Good To Know

• Authentic Locations: Visit the first ASIO office, old Parliament House, and WWII communications bunker.
• Focus on Women: Learn about women’s roles in espionage, both as spies and targets, revealing a lesser-known side of history.
• Entertaining Guides: Tash and other guides deliver facts with humor, making history engaging and memorable.
• Historical Depth: The tour covers early spy activities, royal commissions, and covert operations in a well-researched manner.
• Light-hearted Approach: Expect some playful teasing of spies and their questionable decisions, making learning fun.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible and runs for approximately 2 hours, with flexible booking options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Canberra’s Hidden Spy World

While many visitors think of Canberra as just a political hub or a city of museums, this walking tour uncovers its secret side. The tour runs for about 2 hours, during which you’ll walk through central locations that played crucial roles in Australia’s espionage history and see sites that are rarely on tourist itineraries.

Starting from a designated spot near the front entrance (look for the guide in a pink She Shapes History jumper), you’ll be guided through the city’s lesser-known stories, all told with a friendly, approachable style. The tour is designed to be fun and educational, perfect for those who want a smarter, more playful look at the nation’s capital.

Visiting Iconic and Secret Sites

The First ASIO Office

Your journey begins at ASIO’s first office in Canberra, which was a humble operation with fewer than ten staff. This small, unassuming building exemplifies how espionage often starts on a modest scale—yet it hints at the importance of these early efforts. The guide shares amusing tidbits, like the surprising fact that ASIO files on Australians number over half a million, and not all are threats.

WWII Communications Bunker

Next, you’ll explore an abandoned WWII communications bunker. This site, hidden away from modern eyes, was integral during the war, intercepting and decoding messages. Walking into this bunker gives a real sense of the clandestine operations that once took place underground. Reviewers mention that this stop is particularly atmospheric and offers a tangible connection to wartime secrecy.

More Great Tours Nearby

The 1954 Royal Commission into Espionage

Another highlight is the visit to the location of the 1954 Royal Commission, which investigated espionage activities in Australia. This event marked a turning point in national security, and understanding its background helps explain the subsequent development of intelligence services. The guide adds context, making this a compelling part of the tour.

Canberra’s Oldest Hotel & Old Parliament House

You’ll also get a chance to step inside Canberra’s oldest hotel, a venue with its own stories of espionage and political intrigue, and walk through Old Parliament House, where political tensions and covert activities played out. These sites, rich in history, provide a broader sense of the city’s political landscape and how espionage intertwined with governance.

What You Can Expect From the Tour

This experience promises a light-hearted but well-informed narrative that balances humor with historical facts. The guide, Tash, gets high praise for her storytelling, weaving in amusing anecdotes and lesser-known facts, like the fact that Australia’s surveillance files include many innocent citizens.

Throughout the walk, expect to learn about extraordinary women who became spies or were targeted, demonstrating how gender played a role in espionage. This focus adds a fresh dimension to the usual spy stories, emphasizing stories of resilience, daring, and often overlooked contributions.

You’ll also enjoy the practical info: the tour covers sites accessible on foot, with the entire walk taking about 2 hours. The meeting point is conveniently located near the city center, and the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most travelers.

The Experience – What Makes It Stand Out?

Knowledgeable guides make all the difference, and reviewers consistently mention Tash’s engaging delivery and depth of knowledge. One reviewer said, “Tash delivered all the information in such an interesting and entertaining way. I didn’t realize all the goings-on in our national capital!”

The mix of historic sites and hidden locations ensures you walk away with more than just surface-level facts. For instance, visiting the original ASIO office and the WWII bunker provides tangible links to the past. These are places most travelers wouldn’t find on their own, turning a standard walk into an uncovering of the city’s secret side.

Value for Money

Considering the 2-hour duration, the tour offers a good balance of depth and entertainment. The ticket price, while not specified, seems justified given the exclusive access to sites, the expertise of the guides, and the unique stories told. It’s an experience that adds layers to your understanding of Canberra beyond politics and museums.

Group Size & Accessibility

The small-group format allows for a more personalized experience, and the tour’s accessibility means that even those with mobility challenges can participate. The casual pace ensures you can absorb the stories without feeling rushed.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re fascinated by espionage, history, or women’s stories, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate stories told with humor and want a different perspective on Canberra’s past. While children under 16 aren’t recommended, history enthusiasts and curious adults will find this a rewarding way to spend a couple of hours.

Final Verdict

This tour offers a rare look into Australia’s espionage past, with a focus on the significant roles women played behind the scenes. It’s educational, fun, and packed with authentic sites you’re unlikely to visit solo. Guides like Tash make the experience engaging, blending historical facts with humor and storytelling finesse.

For travelers who enjoy history with a twist, or those interested in mystery and secrecy, this walk is a worthwhile addition to a Canberra visit. It’s especially valuable for those wanting an insider’s perspective on a hidden part of the city’s story—delivered in a way that’s approachable and memorable.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children under 16?
No, the tour is not recommended for children under 16, mainly due to the nature of the content and site access.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 2 hours, giving enough time to explore multiple sites without feeling rushed.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most mobility needs.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the table next to the front entrance of a central location in Canberra. The guide wears a pink She Shapes History shirt or jumper.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended and can be made with flexible payment options, including pay later. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What makes this tour different from other Canberra sightseeing experiences?
It focuses specifically on espionage history, especially the role of women, with visits to hidden or historic sites not typically included in standard tours.

Are there any stories about the spies or espionage that stand out?
While specific stories are not detailed here, reviews highlight the guide’s entertaining storytelling, which often includes fascinating anecdotes about espionage operations and decisions.

Is the tour suitable for history buffs?
Absolutely, it offers in-depth insights into Australia’s spy history, royal commissions, and covert operations.

How much does it cost?
Pricing isn’t specified, but the value lies in the depth of stories and sites visited for a 2-hour guided experience.

Can I cancel my booking if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

In essence, the “Spies in the Capital: Women in Espionage Walking Tour” is a clever, engaging way to see Canberra through a different lens. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a mystery lover, or simply curious about the city’s secret past, this tour promises a memorable journey into Australia’s covert side—told with humor, authenticity, and a truly knowledgeable guide.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby