Members: Sin City - Sydney Crime Stories 2025

Visit real crime scenes from the past and hear the stories behind the crimes in this members-only walking tour.

From unsolved murders and violent robberies to gambling and the infamous Push gangs of The Rocks, we uncover Sydney’s turbulent underbelly.

Discover a time when The Rocks and the waterfront were rough and tumble places, see a side of our city you might not expect and absorb the atmosphere against the dramatic backdrop of some of Sydney’s most evocative and historic locations.

Your two-hour walk starts at the Justice & Police Museum, then winds through the city and finishes at The Rocks.

Spaces are strictly limited. Bookings essential. If you cannot make this session, a paid tour is available. Or if you would like to be added to the wait list, please email members@mhnsw.au.

Not a member? Find out more here.

Please note:

  • Fitness level required: Medium – walking for two full hours over varying terrain, often uphill with multiple steep stairs, and standing for extended periods.
  • Flat comfortable walking shoes, a hat, a water bottle and sun protection are recommended.
  • Tour technology: each participant will be issued a hands-free Bluetooth earpiece that will provide a direct line of amplification from the tour guide. This technology allows participants to hear the tour leader clearly and helps overcome the challenges of communicating in the noisy urban environment. We also offer a T-Coil Neck Loop option compatible with most hearing aid devices. Please advise our Bookings team at bookings@mhnsw.au if you require one.
  • This is an outdoor event and will proceed in wet weather, except in extreme conditions. Please dress appropriately.
  • Ages 18+ – contains adult content.
Corner Albert and Phillip streets, Sydney NSW 2000

Justice & Police Museum

Corner Albert and Phillip streets, Sydney NSW 2000
  • Wheelchair accessible
Plan your visit
  • Sunday 5 October 10.30am–12.30pm

Crime stories

Browse all
C Smith, J Bezzina, W J Williamson, A Feutrill, G Hodder and W Thorson, Special Photograph number 1607, 25 January 1928, Central Police Station, Sydney

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Cameron McIntosh Bean (alias Clifford Bennett), Special photograph number 781, 24 March 1922, possibly Central Police Station, Sydney
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Crime

The Roaring Twenties was a golden era for criminals

Black and white image from the 1920s of a man who looks to be in his 50s.
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Bosses

Sydney’s underworld bosses were tough, resolute and violent – mess with one and you would know you had been in a fight

Black and white photo of a blonde man in a suit with scruffy hair. He is smirking.
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Bruisers

The brawn of Sydney’s underworld, bruisers had a penchant for senseless violence