The Tolhouse Gaol Museum, Great Yarmouth
Explore Great Yarmouth’s 12th-century Tolhouse Gaol, a historic prison and courthouse turned immersive museum of crime and punishment.
The Tolhouse Gaol in Great Yarmouth is a remarkable 12th-century stone building that has served as a merchant's house, tollhouse, jail, courthouse, and police station. Now a museum, it reveals the turbulent history of crime and punishment in the region, showcasing stories of smugglers, pirates, witches, and rebels. Visitors can explore its medieval architecture, historic prison cells, and immersive exhibits during school holiday openings.
A brief summary to The Tolhouse
- 12 Tolhouse St, Great Yarmouth, NR30 2SQ, GB
- +441493858900
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during school holidays when the museum is open, typically Sunday to Friday from 10am to 4pm.
- Allow 1 to 2 hours to fully explore the exhibits and historic prison cells.
- Purchase a Norfolk Museums Pass for free entry and discounts if you plan to visit multiple museums.
- Check for special events like paranormal investigations or community activities hosted at the Tolhouse.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
Getting There
-
Bus
Take the First Eastern Counties bus service from Great Yarmouth town center to the South Quay area; journey times are approximately 10-15 minutes. Services run frequently during the day but reduce on weekends. A single fare costs around £2.50 GBP.
-
Train and Walk
Arrive at Great Yarmouth railway station, located about 1 mile from the Tolhouse. From the station, a 20-minute walk through the town center leads to the museum. Taxis are available outside the station for a 5-minute ride costing approximately £5 GBP.
-
Car
Driving from the A47, follow signs for Historic South Quay. Pay & display parking is available nearby, with free parking on the Quayside. Parking fees typically range from £1 to £3 GBP per hour. Note that the area can be busy during school holidays.
The Tolhouse location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Tolhouse
An Ancient Civic Landmark
The Tolhouse Gaol is one of Great Yarmouth’s oldest surviving buildings, with origins dating back to around 1150. Originally constructed as a merchant’s house, it is built of flint and ashlar with a tiled roof, featuring a finely carved doorway and arched windows that highlight its medieval craftsmanship. By the 13th century, it became a tollhouse for herring catches, giving it the name 'Tolhouse' by 1360. This building stands as a rare example of early civic architecture, reflecting the town’s maritime and commercial heritage.A History of Law and Punishment
From 1261, the Tolhouse was used as a jail, with its prison cells located in the basement. Over centuries, it housed a variety of inmates including smugglers, pirates, thieves, and those accused of witchcraft. Notably, in 1645, witch-hunter Matthew Hopkins used the Tolhouse during his infamous witch trials. The building also served as a courthouse and police station, with the hall hosting council meetings and legal proceedings. Prison conditions were harsh, with overcrowding and unsanitary cells, leading to its closure as a jail in 1878 when prisoners were transferred to Norwich Prison.Survival Through Turmoil and Restoration
The Tolhouse has endured a turbulent past, surviving attacks by rebels and severe damage during World War II bombings in 1941 that gutted much of the structure and destroyed museum collections. Restoration efforts between 1960 and 1961 rebuilt the building, preserving its historic fabric. In 1953, it was designated a Grade I listed building, recognizing its national significance. Today, it stands as a testament to Great Yarmouth’s resilience and rich history.A Museum of Crime and Community
Since reopening as a museum in 1895, the Tolhouse has focused on the story of crime and punishment in the region. Exhibits include immersive displays and hands-on activities that reveal the grim realities of life behind bars, the judicial system, and local law enforcement history. The museum also hosts events such as school visits, paranormal investigations, and weddings, maintaining its role as a living part of the community.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Visitors to the Tolhouse Gaol can explore the medieval cells, courtroom, and historic rooms, absorbing the atmosphere of a building steeped in centuries of stories. The thick stone walls and dungeon spaces evoke the harshness of past punishments, while the preserved architecture offers a tangible link to medieval England. The museum’s setting in Great Yarmouth’s historic quarter adds to its evocative charm.Legacy and Cultural Importance
The Tolhouse Gaol is not only a window into the past but also a cultural landmark that embodies the evolution of law, justice, and civic life in Great Yarmouth. Its preservation allows visitors to connect with the town’s maritime heritage and the social history of crime and punishment in England. As an educational resource and heritage site, it continues to inspire interest in local history and the complexities of justice through the ages.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
English Heritage - Greyfriars Cloisters
0.1 km
Medieval Franciscan ruins revealing seven centuries of Norfolk's spiritual heritage and monastic life.
War Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute in Great Yarmouth honoring 619 service members and 162 civilians who sacrificed their lives in the World Wars.
Medieval Town Wall
0.5 km
Explore England’s second most complete medieval town wall, a mile-long historic fortress with surviving towers and rich maritime heritage.
Pudding tower
0.5 km
Step back in time at the Pudding Tower, a medieval gate that once guarded Great Yarmouth’s bustling port.
The Broads National Park
8.8 km
Explore the breathtaking waterways and rich wildlife of The Broads National Park, a hidden gem in Norfolk and Suffolk perfect for nature lovers.
The Broads
8.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of The Broads, a national park filled with picturesque waterways, diverse wildlife, and charming villages perfect for outdoor adventures.
St Olave's Priory
10.1 km
Discover St Olave's Priory, a historical gem in Great Yarmouth, where heritage and tranquility intertwine amidst stunning medieval architecture.
Discover the Norfolk Broads
12.2 km
Discover the natural beauty and tranquil waterways of the Norfolk Broads, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in East Anglia.
Potter Heigham bridge
15.3 km
Discover the charm of Potter Heigham Bridge, an iconic historical landmark in the heart of Norfolk's stunning Broads, perfect for scenic walks and photography.
Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden
16.7 km
Explore the natural beauty of Fairhaven Woodland & Water Garden, where lush landscapes meet serene waters in the heart of Norfolk.
St. Benet's Abbey
16.7 km
Discover the enchanting ruins of St. Benet's Abbey, a historical gem in Great Yarmouth, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and rich heritage.
Hickling Broad
17.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Hickling Broad, a premier nature reserve in Norfolk perfect for birdwatching, walking, and kayaking.
Ranworth Broad
18.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Ranworth Broad, a tranquil waterway in Norfolk perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking peace and adventure.
Toad Hole Cottage Museum
19.4 km
Explore the Toad Hole Cottage Museum and dive into the rich history of the Norfolk Broads in a charming and serene setting.
Wheatfen Broad - Ted Ellis Trust
20.0 km
Explore the serene beauty of Wheatfen Broad, a nature reserve near Norwich, rich in wildlife and stunning landscapes ideal for relaxation and exploration.
Unmissable attractions to see
Great Yarmouth Row Houses
0.1 km
Explore Great Yarmouth’s unique medieval merchant houses and historic Rows, a rare glimpse into centuries of urban life and maritime heritage.
Old Merchant's House
0.1 km
Step into the past at Great Yarmouth’s Old Merchant's House, where maritime history and elegant architecture meet on the scenic South Quay.
National Trust - Elizabethan House Museum
0.2 km
Explore the Elizabethan House Museum in Great Yarmouth, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and authentic architecture.
St George's Park
0.3 km
Urban green sanctuary connecting Great Yarmouth's town centre to the seafront with rose gardens, play areas, and maritime charm.
The South East Tower
0.4 km
Sleep within medieval walls: a 14th-century tower transformed into an extraordinary heritage holiday home.
Time and Tide Museum of Great Yarmouth Life
0.4 km
Discover Great Yarmouth’s maritime heritage and vibrant coastal life in a beautifully restored Victorian fish curing works museum.
Medieval Town Wall Open Space
0.5 km
Walk the longest surviving medieval town wall in England and discover the rich maritime heritage of Great Yarmouth.
Hippodrome Circus
0.6 km
Britain's only surviving purpose-built circus, where Victorian spectacle meets contemporary artistry on the Norfolk coast.
Jurassic Journey
0.6 km
Explore the prehistoric world with animatronic dinosaurs and fossil digs at Great Yarmouth’s family-friendly Jurassic Journey.
About Great Yarmouth
0.6 km
Historic seaside charm meets lively coastal attractions on Norfolk’s scenic Great Yarmouth peninsula.
Anchor Gardens
0.7 km
A peaceful coastal garden with iconic anchor-shaped flowerbeds, offering a serene escape on Great Yarmouth’s vibrant seafront.
Great Yarmouth Beach
0.7 km
Discover the golden sands and lively promenade of Great Yarmouth Beach, a classic British seaside destination with fun for all ages.
SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth
0.8 km
Explore the depths of the ocean at SEA LIFE Great Yarmouth, where adventure and education meet in an unforgettable aquatic experience.
Joyland
0.8 km
Classic seaside fun at Joyland, Great Yarmouth’s charming family amusement park since 1949, home to the iconic Super Snails and timeless rides.
Lord Choo Choo Land Train's Ltd (Britannia Pier - Haven, Seashore Holiday Park)
0.8 km
A charming miniature train ride on Great Yarmouth’s historic Britannia Pier, perfect for family fun and seaside nostalgia.
Essential places to dine
Zaks Yankee Traveller
0.1 km
Hearty American comfort food, generous portions, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
Quayside Plaza
0.1 km
Charming Mediterranean restaurant on Great Yarmouth’s South Quay, offering homemade dishes and warm, attentive service in an elegant setting.
The Courtyard Italian Restaurante
0.2 km
Intimate Italian dining where handmade pasta and personal hospitality define every meal.
Alexandra Restaurant
0.4 km
A family-run gem in Great Yarmouth, serving hearty English and Mediterranean dishes in a warm, welcoming setting.
Charlie's Tapas Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Spanish tapas with vibrant flavors and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
The Arches
0.6 km
Traditional British pub fare and warm hospitality in the heart of Great Yarmouth
HMS Hinchinbrook great Yarmouth
0.6 km
Classic British fish and grill dining by the seaside, blending tradition with modern flavors in Great Yarmouth.
Ocean Spray
0.7 km
Savor fresh seafood and premium steaks in a welcoming seaside setting at Ocean Spray, Great Yarmouth’s refined coastal dining destination.
Othello
0.7 km
Fresh Mediterranean flavors and seafood by the sea in Great Yarmouth’s vibrant Marine Parade.
Metropole Restaurant
0.7 km
Classic British seaside dining with genuine warmth and honest value on Marine Parade.
JAN Restaurant
0.7 km
Award-winning fine dining in an intimate art deco setting overlooking Great Yarmouth's seafront.
Gilfreds Restaurant
0.7 km
Authentic English carvery serving home-cooked roasts and traditional puddings with genuine Norfolk hospitality.
Chico's Restaurant
0.7 km
Fresh seafood and hearty steaks served with friendly service on Great Yarmouth’s scenic Marine Parade.
Charcoal Grill
0.7 km
Charcoal-grilled excellence meets Norfolk hospitality on the seafront.
Strollers Restaurant
0.8 km
Modern seaside dining with fresh seafood and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere at Strollers Restaurant on Great Yarmouth’s Marine Parade.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ferailles Shop - (Knot Just A Furniture Shop!) - Great Yarmouth
0.1 km
Explore Ferailles Shop in Great Yarmouth - a unique blend of gift shop, art gallery, and antique haven with treasures waiting to be discovered.
Mermaid Quay
0.2 km
Explore Mermaid Quay in Great Yarmouth for a unique selection of crafts, jewelry, and gifts that capture the spirit of your visit.
Grasshopper
0.2 km
Discover authentic seaside treasures and locally crafted souvenirs in Great Yarmouth's most charming gift shop.
R&D Crafts
0.3 km
Discover unique handmade crafts and gifts in the charming Victoria Arcade of Great Yarmouth.
Cauldron37
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Cauldron37, a cozy boutique in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s vibrant Regent Street.
Craftmania
0.3 km
Premier craft supplies and materials for card-makers, scrapbookers, and creative enthusiasts in Great Yarmouth.
Martyns Walk Round Store
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Martyns Walk Round Store in Great Yarmouth, the ultimate shopping destination for tourists.
Steve's 'n' Mix
0.4 km
Traditional sweet shop on Regent Road offering classic British pick 'n' mix sweets and fudge gifts in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
Market Gates Shopping Centre (Great Yarmouth)
0.4 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Market Gates Shopping Centre, the ultimate destination for retail therapy and delightful dining in Great Yarmouth.
Branded Collectibles
0.4 km
Discover a vibrant world of licensed toys and pop culture memorabilia at Branded Collectibles in Great Yarmouth.
Shelly's Emporium
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local artisan treasures at Shelly's Emporium, a family-run gem on historic Regent Road in Great Yarmouth.
Handmade GIFTS AND CRAFTS From Bali
0.4 km
Discover authentic Balinese handmade gifts and crafts in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s vibrant shopping scene.
Cottage Jewels
0.4 km
Discover exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance at Cottage Jewels, Great Yarmouth’s premier jewellery boutique.
Unique Crafts
0.4 km
Explore Unique Crafts in Great Yarmouth for one-of-a-kind miniatures and handcrafted treasures that capture the essence of local artistry.
Belzart
0.4 km
Discover mystical treasures and unique gifts at Belzart, a cozy and enchanting shop in the heart of Great Yarmouth’s Market Row.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Liberty's Rock Cafe
0.1 km
Historic seventeenth-century pub in Great Yarmouth offering traditional British ales and a lively social atmosphere.
The Blue Oyster
0.2 km
Lively bar and dining hotspot in Great Yarmouth, known for quality food, excellent cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Uptown Bar
0.2 km
Affordable and friendly bar in Great Yarmouth’s heart, perfect for casual drinks and lively social evenings.
Peggotys Lounge
0.2 km
A lively pub and restaurant in Great Yarmouth offering great cocktails, tasty food, and a vibrant nightlife atmosphere.
Theatre Tavern
0.3 km
Traditional Great Yarmouth boozer with affordable drinks, live entertainment, and genuine local character.
Troll Cart Wetherspoons Great Yarmouth
0.4 km
A vibrant Wetherspoon pub and hotel in Great Yarmouth offering affordable food, comfy rooms, and easy access to local attractions.
The Mariners
0.4 km
Traditional real ale pub where locals and visitors unite over quality beer and genuine Norfolk hospitality.
The Jube
0.4 km
Great Yarmouth's family-friendly sports bar and nightclub where entertainment meets community spirit.
Duke's Head Hotel
0.4 km
A historic waterfront bar in Great Yarmouth known for friendly service, quality casual dining, and a lively atmosphere.
The Feathers
0.5 km
A friendly, traditional pub in Great Yarmouth with affordable drinks, live sports, and a welcoming community atmosphere.
The Red Herring
0.5 km
A cozy, historic pub in Great Yarmouth famed for quality real ales and a warm, community atmosphere.
Tombstone Brewery & Saloon Bar
0.5 km
Step into an Old West saloon with handcrafted ales brewed on-site, offering a unique real ale experience in the heart of Great Yarmouth.
The Market Tavern Public House
0.5 km
A traditional Great Yarmouth pub serving hearty British classics with warm hospitality in the heart of Market Place.
Prince Regent
0.5 km
A friendly, lively pub in Great Yarmouth with live music, a welcoming atmosphere, and a cozy patio garden.
The Oliver Twist Freehouse
0.6 km
Lively freehouse pub with two bars, outdoor seating, and friendly staff in Great Yarmouth town centre.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
