Derby Gaol
An 18th-century haunted prison where history, paranormal mystery, and immersive theatre converge in England's ghost capital.
Derby Gaol is a haunted 18th-century prison in the heart of Derby, England, offering visitors an immersive journey into the paranormal and the region's dark history. Famous for its authentic atmosphere, original prisoner graffiti, and paranormal investigation events led by renowned experts, this atmospheric venue combines historical education with thrilling supernatural experiences. Themed nights and guided ghost hunts make it a unique destination for those seeking both history and mystery.
A brief summary to Derby Ghost Walk and Jail
- 50-51 Friar Gate, Derby, DE1 1DF, GB
- +441335360882
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Saturday 11 am-3 pm
Local tips
- Book paranormal investigation events well in advance, as they sell out quickly due to limited capacity and restricted opening hours. Check the schedule online and secure your tickets early to avoid disappointment.
- Themed nights such as pirate events require costume dress codes. Review event details before attending to ensure you arrive appropriately dressed and fully prepared to participate in the immersive experience.
- Arrive early on event days to allow time for orientation and to absorb the atmospheric surroundings before the main experience begins. The building's layout can be disorienting in dim lighting.
- Bring a camera or smartphone to document the original prisoner graffiti and architectural details. The historical inscriptions are among the most moving and photographically compelling aspects of the gaol.
- If attending a paranormal investigation, wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear. You will be moving through narrow corridors and uneven stone floors for extended periods in low light conditions.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Local Bus Service
Derby has a comprehensive local bus network operated by Arriva and other providers. Services run regularly to Friar Gate in the city centre where Derby Gaol is located. Journey times from Derby railway station are approximately 10–15 minutes depending on the route. Single fares typically range from £1.50 to £2.50. Check local timetables as services vary by day and time.
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Walking from Derby City Centre
If you are staying in Derby's city centre, the gaol is within walking distance. The walk from the Market Place takes approximately 10–12 minutes on relatively flat terrain through pedestrianised streets and main roads. The route is well-signposted and accessible year-round, though evening walks should account for reduced lighting during winter months.
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Taxi or Ride-Share Service
Taxis and ride-share services such as Uber operate throughout Derby. Journey times from Derby railway station are approximately 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £6 to £12. This option is convenient for evening events and eliminates concerns about parking or navigation.
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Private Vehicle with On-Street Parking
On-street parking is available on Friar Gate and surrounding streets, though availability varies by time of day and day of week. Parking is typically free in the evening and on weekends but may incur charges during business hours. The gaol's limited opening hours (primarily Saturday afternoons and special event evenings) mean parking is generally available. Allow 10–15 minutes to find a suitable space during peak event times.
Derby Ghost Walk and Jail location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Derby Ghost Walk and Jail
A Prison Steeped in History and Haunting Legends
Derby Gaol stands as one of England's most atmospheric historic prisons, dating back to the 18th century. Located in the heart of Derby, a city renowned as the ghost capital of England, this former place of incarceration has transformed into a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and paranormal investigators alike. The gaol's thick stone walls and narrow corridors have witnessed centuries of human suffering, desperation, and tragedy—experiences that many believe have left an indelible mark on the location itself. The building's architectural integrity remains largely intact, preserving the authentic conditions under which countless prisoners once languished.Echoes of the Imprisoned: Original Graffiti and Personal Histories
One of the most poignant features of Derby Gaol is the original graffiti etched into the cell walls by inmates over centuries. These crude markings, scratched into stone by desperate hands, offer a raw and unfiltered window into the lives, struggles, and emotions of those who were confined within these walls. Names, dates, messages, and symbols tell stories of loss, hope, defiance, and resignation. Walking through the cells and observing these etchings creates an intimate connection to the past, transforming abstract history into deeply personal narratives. These inscriptions serve as silent testimony to the human experience of imprisonment and remain one of the gaol's most moving attractions.Paranormal Investigations and Supernatural Encounters
Derby Gaol has earned its reputation as a paranormally active location, with numerous reported encounters and unexplained phenomena occurring throughout the building. Visitors and investigators have documented disembodied voices, apparitions, unexplained noises, and overwhelming sensations of being watched. The gaol regularly hosts paranormal investigation events that invite visitors to explore these mysteries firsthand. Renowned paranormal investigator and historian Richard Felix frequently leads these guided investigations, bringing his extensive expertise and engaging storytelling to the experience. These events typically involve vigils conducted in the cells, use of specialized equipment to detect spiritual activity, and detailed accounts of documented hauntings and historical tragedies associated with the location.Themed Experiences and Immersive Entertainment
Beyond standard tours and paranormal investigations, Derby Gaol offers uniquely themed events that blend entertainment with historical atmosphere. Pirate-themed nights transform the main courtyard and cells into a rollicking adventure, complete with live entertainment and strict dress code requirements that encourage visitors to fully immerse themselves in the experience. The 'Gaol House Shock' cabaret provides late-night lock-in experiences where participants can conduct their own ghost hunting investigations after the main show concludes. These varied offerings ensure that each visit can be tailored to individual interests, whether seeking historical knowledge, paranormal thrills, or theatrical entertainment.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
The gaol's authentic eerie atmosphere is consistently praised by visitors, who describe the environment as genuinely unsettling and historically immersive. The combination of original architecture, dim lighting, narrow passageways, and the weight of historical tragedy creates an environment that feels genuinely haunted, regardless of one's beliefs about the paranormal. The knowledgeable and engaging staff enhance the experience through compelling storytelling and historical context. However, visitors should be aware that Derby Gaol operates with limited opening hours and specific events often require advance booking, as popular paranormal investigations and themed nights frequently sell out.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Derby Ram Statue
0.9 km
Discover Derby’s iconic ram statue, a vibrant symbol of local legend, heritage, and community pride in the heart of the city.
The Hemlock Stone
17.5 km
Towering sandstone sentinel amid Nottinghamshire woods, blending ancient geology, whispered legends, and sweeping valley views for an effortless nature immersion.
Gazebo
18.7 km
A serene early 19th-century stone pavilion nestled in Wollaton Park, blending heritage charm with tranquil garden beauty.
Camellia House
18.8 km
Explore the historical beauty of Camellia House in Nottingham, a landmark showcasing exquisite architecture and serene gardens.
Cathedral Hall
22.3 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
22.4 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
22.4 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
Arboretum
22.5 km
Explore the tranquil Nottingham Arboretum, a historic park filled with stunning gardens, ancient trees, and vibrant wildlife in the heart of Nottingham.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
22.5 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre
22.5 km
Discover the captivating history of Nottingham at the Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre, where legends come alive through engaging exhibits and rich narratives.
Mortimer’s hole
22.5 km
Explore Mortimer's Hole in Nottingham - a captivating historical landmark steeped in legend and medieval intrigue.
Scale Space Nottingham
22.5 km
Experience collaboration and innovation at Scale Space Nottingham, the premier co-working space in the heart of the city, perfect for entrepreneurs and remote workers.
Robin Hood Statue
22.6 km
Explore Nottingham's rich heritage at the Robin Hood Statue, a captivating monument celebrating the legendary outlaw and his enduring legacy.
Museum of Nottingham Life
22.6 km
Discover Nottingham's rich history at the Museum of Nottingham Life, where captivating exhibits and engaging artifacts await every visitor.
Cryptology Escape Rooms Nottingham
22.6 km
Experience the thrill of adventure at Cryptology Escape Rooms Nottingham with unique puzzles and immersive storytelling.
Unmissable attractions to see
Reform Bill Heads (Friar Gate Heads)
0.1 km
Historic sculptural heads on Friar Gate commemorating Derby’s pivotal role in the 19th-century Reform Bill riots and political change.
Pickford's House
0.1 km
Discover Georgian elegance, local legends, and cultural heritage at Derby’s Pickford's House Museum, a free-entry historic gem with period rooms and unique exhibitions.
Derby Museum & Art Gallery
0.5 km
Free world-class art and antiquities in Derby's cultural heart, anchored by the world's largest Joseph Wright collection.
Five Lamps Pub
0.6 km
A friendly and lively traditional pub on Duffield Road, offering a welcoming atmosphere and classic British drinks in Derby.
Cathedral Quarter Derby
0.6 km
Derby’s historic heart: cobbled lanes, Victorian arcades, independent boutiques, cafés and culture around the cathedral.
Derby Cathedral
0.6 km
Discover Derby’s historic cathedral blending Georgian elegance, rich heritage, and vibrant cultural life in the city centre.
Derbion shopping centre
0.9 km
Derbion Shopping Centre: Over 200 shops, vibrant dining, and entertainment in the heart of Derby city centre.
Derbion
1.2 km
Derbion: Derby’s vibrant heart for shopping, dining, entertainment, and culture under one roof.
Darley Park
1.5 km
An 80-acre riverside park in Derby blending lush gardens, open fields, sports, and vibrant community events in a historic natural setting.
Alvaston Park
4.0 km
A scenic riverside park in Derby with inclusive playgrounds, BMX tracks, sports courts, and vibrant community events for all ages.
Kedleston Hall
5.1 km
Explore Kedleston Hall’s stunning 18th-century Neo-classical mansion, rich collections, and sweeping historic parkland near Derby.
The Apple Tree Gift Shop and Teahouse
7.7 km
A charming village teahouse and gift shop in Ockbrook, blending homemade treats with unique gifts in a cozy, rustic setting.
Belper River Gardens
11.7 km
A century-old riverside sanctuary where Victorian heritage meets natural tranquility along the Derwent.
East Midlands Aeropark
13.9 km
Explore historic aircraft and watch modern airliners take off at East Midlands Aeropark, a unique aviation museum and viewing spot near Castle Donington.
Calke Explore
13.9 km
Explore ancient woodlands, accessible trails, and natural play areas at Calke Explore, the perfect outdoor adventure base within Calke Abbey’s historic estate.
Essential places to dine
The Dining Room
0.4 km
An intimate Derby restaurant serving exquisite, locally sourced British dishes with warm, attentive service in a cozy setting.
Emily's Steakhouse
0.5 km
Cozy British steakhouse in Derby offering expertly cooked steaks with classic sides and friendly service in a relaxed setting.
Carnero Lounge
0.8 km
A welcoming Derby lounge offering vibrant vegan and gluten-free dishes in a relaxed, dog-friendly setting with excellent coffee and friendly service.
Darleys Restaurant & Terrace
2.2 km
Contemporary British dining with scenic river views in a historic mill setting at Darley Abbey, Derby.
Clock Bistro
5.5 km
A cozy bistro in Spondon blending English, Italian, and Mediterranean flavors with friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Dovecote Restaurant
7.9 km
Elegant countryside dining with seasonal British cuisine and serene views at Morley Hayes Golf Club near Ilkeston.
The Restaurant at Horsley
8.5 km
Elegant dining with scenic golf course views, serving British classics and steaks in a tranquil Derbyshire setting.
The Tasting Club Restaurant
10.2 km
An intimate tasting menu experience blending rustic charm and refined flavors in Ashbourne’s historic Buttermilk Coffee House.
The Boot Inn
10.3 km
Historic 17th-century coaching inn in Repton offering award-winning British cuisine, boutique rooms, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere.
The Bulls Head Repton
10.6 km
A vibrant and quaint pub in Repton serving generous, delicious meals in a warm, historic setting with a lively atmosphere.
Amalfi White
11.7 km
Stylish modern European dining and elegant events venue with inclusive menus and a grand ballroom in Melbourne, Derbyshire.
La Rock Restaurant
13.4 km
Experience refined Modern European cuisine with impeccable service in the warm, elegant setting of La Rock Restaurant, Sandiacre’s fine dining jewel.
Craig Riley @ Donington Manor Hotel
13.5 km
Experience Michelin-level modern British cuisine in the historic charm of Donington Manor with Chef Craig Riley’s exceptional culinary artistry.
The Lighthouse Restaurant
16.9 km
An intimate fine dining gem in Derbyshire offering inventive seasonal British cuisine with impeccable service and a cozy countryside setting.
ZHUG
17.3 km
Savor vibrant Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors with fresh, bold dishes and a lively atmosphere in Nottingham’s Bramcote Lane.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tubo Gift Shop
0.6 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and eco-friendly treasures at Tubo Gift Shop, Derby’s award-winning indie gem in the historic Cathedral Quarter.
Park Farm Shopping Centre
2.2 km
A welcoming local shopping centre in Allestree, Derby, blending independent stores with essential services in a relaxed community setting.
Typically Unique
9.9 km
Discover beautiful, realistic gifts and exceptional service at Typically Unique, a beloved shop in the historic village of Aston-on-Trent.
England Pellegrino
10.9 km
Discover unique, handcrafted gifts in Belper’s historic England Pellegrino, nestled within the Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage Site.
Something Different
15.0 km
Discover vintage treasures and unique collectibles in a charming Stapleford shop filled with antiques, records, and secondhand gems.
Kim's Handmade Gift Shop
15.0 km
Explore Kim's Handmade Gift Shop in Long Eaton for unique handcrafted gifts that celebrate local artistry and creativity.
World Duty Free - East Midlands Airport
15.2 km
Shop premium beauty, fragrances, spirits, and more at East Midlands Airport’s World Duty Free with convenient Reserve & Collect service.
Millie Edith Emporium
16.4 km
Discover unique costumes and clothing with vintage charm at Millie Edith Emporium, Eastwood’s beloved boutique on Nottingham Road.
Shop
16.5 km
Discover Derby's unique shop filled with local crafts and artisanal treasures, a must-visit for every tourist.
Catherine’s Exclusive Fashion
17.3 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at Catherine's Exclusive Fashion, Nottingham's premier boutique for stylish clothing and accessories.
Grocery Store & Florist
17.3 km
Explore Nottingham's local culture at this delightful grocery store and florist, perfect for unique gifts and fresh flowers.
Indigo Ladieswear, Gifts & Accessories
17.3 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion, gifts, and jewelry at Indigo Ladieswear, Gifts & Accessories in Nottingham, a stylish destination for every shopper.
Marks and Spencer
17.5 km
24-hour M&S haven at Wollaton BP: gourmet groceries, stylish clothes, and convenience essentials in Nottingham's suburban heart.
Stratus Wallets
17.9 km
Discover unique gifts and treasures at Stratus Wallets, Nottingham's charming gift shop for memorable souvenirs and accessories.
Aryaan Straps
18.1 km
Explore the vibrant world of fashion accessories at Aryaan Straps in Beeston, Nottingham, where style meets uniqueness in every piece.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Last Post, Derby
0.2 km
A cozy micro pub in Derby offering a friendly vibe, excellent local ales, live music, and a quaint garden retreat.
The Mixing House
0.3 km
A lively Derby cocktail bar offering creative drinks, delicious tapas, and a vibrant social atmosphere on historic Friar Gate.
the Orange tree
0.3 km
A stylish and welcoming cocktail bar and events venue in Derby’s city centre, known for quality drinks and versatile social spaces.
The Distillery
0.4 km
Derby’s independent bar and restaurant with the largest spirit collection, innovative menus, and a lively atmosphere in the Cathedral Quarter.
The Flowerpot
0.5 km
Derby’s iconic real ale pub and live music venue blending traditional brews, vibrant gigs, and authentic Gurkha curries in a lively setting.
Blacksmiths Lounge
0.6 km
Lively cocktail bar and live music venue in Derby’s historic Sadler Gate, blending rustic charm with vibrant entertainment.
BlueNote
0.6 km
Derby’s late-night hotspot for live music and DJ-driven clubbing in the heart of the city’s vibrant nightlife scene.
Bunk
0.6 km
Lively Derby bar specializing in chicken wings and cocktails, perfect for casual evenings and vibrant nightlife.
Slug & Lettuce - Derby
0.7 km
Lively cocktail bar and casual dining venue in Derby city centre, perfect for drinks, socialising, and celebrations with stylish vibes and great deals.
Silk Mill Derby
0.7 km
Historic Derby pub blending British culinary heritage with craft ales and a lively, welcoming atmosphere in the Cathedral Quarter.
The Hideout Derby
0.7 km
A vibrant Derby pub blending gaming fun, street food, and bottomless brunch in a lively, social atmosphere.
Cosy Club
0.8 km
Historic elegance and modern dining converge in Cosy Club Derby’s vibrant Royal Buildings setting.
The White Horse
1.0 km
A lively Derby city-centre pub famed for live music, friendly vibes, and a solid selection of ales and ciders.
Exeter Arms
1.0 km
A cozy, traditional Derby pub offering hearty meals, excellent ales, and a warm, rustic atmosphere in the city center.
The Bell & Castle
1.1 km
A lively and welcoming Irish-style pub in Derby offering great drinks, casual dining, and a friendly community atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Mosh
0.3 km
Three floors of diverse music and affordable drinks make Mosh a lively, student-friendly nightclub in Derby’s city center.
Together
0.6 km
Vibrant Afrobeat nightclub and cocktail bar in Derby’s city centre with affordable drinks and lively events.
Bar Fever Derby
0.6 km
Experience Derby’s vibrant nightlife at Fever Derby, a dynamic three-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and exclusive VIP areas.
MooMoo Nightclub Derby
0.7 km
Experience Derby’s vibrant nightlife with diverse music rooms, premium booths, and affordable drinks at MooMoo Nightclub on St James's Street.
The Attic Adult Club
3.6 km
An intimate adult nightclub in Derby offering lively entertainment, friendly staff, and affordable fun in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Regal Nightclub
15.1 km
Experience Ripley’s vibrant nightlife at The Regal Nightclub, where lively music and a welcoming atmosphere keep the party going late into the weekend.
The Association Nightclub
15.1 km
Ripley's vibrant weekend nightclub offering late-night music, dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
Ciros Nightclub
19.7 km
Energetic nightlife hotspot in Ashby-de-la-Zouch offering music, dancing, and a vibrant social scene in a central market town setting.
CRISIS
22.6 km
Experience Nottingham’s legendary live music and nightlife at Rock City, a vibrant venue with a rich history and dynamic club nights.
Rock City
22.6 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
Tunnel Club
22.6 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
Rescue Rooms
22.6 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
ICON
22.7 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
Stealth
22.7 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
22.7 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Adrenaline-pumping
- Unique
- Entertaining
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
