Shepton Mallet Prison: England's Historic and Haunted Penal Landmark

Step inside England’s oldest prison for immersive tours, escape rooms, and ghost hunts steeped in over 400 years of history and haunting tales.

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Shepton Mallet Prison

Shepton Mallet Prison, located on Frithfield Lane in Somerset, is England’s oldest prison, dating back over 400 years. Now a captivating heritage attraction, it offers immersive tours, escape rooms, and ghost hunts that reveal the harsh realities of prison life. Visitors can explore its historic cells, learn about its rich and often dark history, and experience unique events in a setting renowned for its reputed hauntings.

A brief summary to Shepton Mallet Prison

Frithfield Ln, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5FQ, GB
+441749681862
Visit website
Duration: 2 to 3 hours
Mid ranged
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 10 am-5 pm
Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
Thursday 10 am-5 pm
Friday 10 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

Book tickets online in advance, especially for popular events like ghost hunts and escape rooms, to secure your preferred time.
Allow at least 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the prison and participate in guided tours or self-guided experiences.
Visit during the Living History Days or Halloween season for special events that bring the prison’s past vividly to life.
Wear comfortable shoes and dress warmly, as some areas can be chilly and involve walking on uneven surfaces.

Getting There

Car

Driving to Shepton Mallet Prison typically takes 15 to 25 minutes from central Shepton Mallet. Parking is available nearby but can be limited during special events, so arriving early is recommended. There are no parking fees for standard visits.
Bus

Local bus services connect Shepton Mallet town center to routes near Frithfield Lane. The bus journey takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes from nearby towns. Check local timetables as service frequency varies, especially on weekends.
Train plus Taxi

The nearest train station is Shepton Mallet on the Heart of Wessex Line. From there, a taxi ride of about 10 minutes will take you to the prison. Train services run regularly but check schedules ahead for connections.

Shepton Mallet Prison location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Shepton Mallet Prison

Legacy of England’s Oldest Prison

Shepton Mallet Prison stands as a monumental testament to over four centuries of British penal history, having opened its doors in 1625. Originally built to house prisoners in an era when incarceration was a primary form of punishment, the prison witnessed countless historical events and societal changes. Its architecture reflects evolving prison design philosophies, from austere stone cells to more modern adaptations, encapsulating the harsh conditions endured by inmates through the ages.

Immersive Visitor Experiences

Today, the prison operates as a heritage museum and tourist attraction, offering visitors a chance to step back in time. Guided tours, often led by former prison officers, provide authentic insights into daily life behind bars, including the routines of prisoners and guards. For those seeking interactive challenges, The Cell escape room delivers an adrenaline-charged experience, combining history with immersive gameplay. Evening events such as Ghost Hunting and Night Behind Bars add thrilling layers, exploring the prison’s reputation as one of the UK’s most haunted sites.

Architectural and Atmospheric Features

The prison’s layout features multiple wings and original cells preserved to maintain historical integrity. Visitors can explore B Wing and other areas where inmates once lived, offering a tangible connection to the past. The austere stone walls, iron bars, and narrow corridors create a somber, reflective atmosphere that contrasts with the lively storytelling and interactive exhibits. The site’s ambiance is heightened by its rural Somerset setting, where the quiet surroundings amplify the prison’s eerie reputation.

Events Marking Historical Milestones

Shepton Mallet Prison regularly hosts special events that commemorate its 400-year history, including Living History Days that bring reenactments and workshops to life. These events deepen visitors’ understanding of the prison’s social and cultural impact over centuries. Seasonal offerings, such as Halloween Ghost Tours, attract thrill-seekers and history enthusiasts alike, blending folklore with documented paranormal activity.

Visitor Amenities and Practical Information

Open daily from 10am to 5pm, the site provides facilities including a café serving snacks and beverages, restrooms, and a visitor center with information boards. The prison’s website offers ticket booking and event details, with discounts available during festive seasons. The experience typically lasts 2 to 3 hours, though visitors can extend their stay by participating in multiple activities. The site is accessible by car and public transport, with parking available nearby.

Preserving Heritage Through Education

Beyond its entertainment value, Shepton Mallet Prison serves as an educational resource, highlighting penal reform and social history. Exhibits and tours emphasize the human stories behind incarceration, fostering reflection on justice and punishment. The site’s preservation as a heritage building ensures that this significant chapter of England’s history remains accessible and engaging for future generations.

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Shepton Mallet Prison: England's Historic and Haunted Penal Landmark

A brief summary to Shepton Mallet Prison

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Car

Bus

Train plus Taxi

Shepton Mallet Prison location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Shepton Mallet Prison

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Shepton Mallet Prison

Legacy of England’s Oldest Prison

Immersive Visitor Experiences

Architectural and Atmospheric Features

Events Marking Historical Milestones

Visitor Amenities and Practical Information

Preserving Heritage Through Education

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Vicar's Cl

Nunney Castle

Glastonbury Tor

St Margaret's Chapel

Maes Knoll Tump (Iron age Hill Fort)

Fairfield House

Bath Quays Waterside

SouthGate Bath

Green Park Station

Chapel Arts Centre

Westgate Buildings

Hetling Pump Room

Bath Masonic Hall

Elton House

Archway

Unmissable attractions to see

The Bishop's Palace & Gardens

Wells Cathedral

White Spring

Chalice Well

Glastonbury Abbey

Glastonbury

The Lamb & Fountain

Rook Lane Chapel

Catherine Hill

The Parish Church of St John the Baptist

Cheddar Gorge

Cheddar Gorge and Caves

Longleat House

Cheddar Gorge Cheese Company

Pensford Viaduct

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Amarone Restaurant

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OAK Restaurant

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The Elder Restaurant

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Topping & Company Booksellers of Bath