The Clink Prison Museum: London's Dark Medieval Past Unveiled
Step into the dark history of London’s oldest prison and experience the grim realities of crime and punishment at The Clink Prison Museum.
The Clink Prison Museum in London is built on the original site of one of England’s oldest and most notorious prisons, dating back to 1144. This immersive museum reveals over 600 years of grim history, showcasing medieval torture devices, authentic prison cells, and tales of infamous inmates. Located in Southwark, it offers a hands-on, atmospheric experience that brings to life the harsh realities of crime and punishment in historic London.
A brief summary to The Clink Prison Museum
- 1 Clink St, London, SE1 9DG, GB
- +442074030900
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
- Thursday 10 am-6 pm
- Friday 10 am-6 pm
- Saturday 10 am-6 pm
- Sunday 10 am-6 pm
Local tips
- Allow around 1 hour to fully explore the museum and absorb the detailed exhibits and interactive displays.
- The museum can be dimly lit and has some narrow spaces, so keep an eye on children and those with mobility concerns.
- Don’t miss the opportunity to handle replica torture devices and take a souvenir photo behind the prison bars.
- Visit on weekdays or outside peak tourist seasons to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take the London Underground to London Bridge Station, served by the Jubilee and Northern lines. From there, it’s a 10-15 minute walk along Borough High Street to Clink Street. Tube fares range from £2.50 to £6 depending on travel zones and ticket type.
-
Bus
Several bus routes stop near London Bridge, including routes 43, 48, 141, and 149. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with a typical journey time of 20-30 minutes from central London. A contactless payment or Oyster card costs £1.75 per ride.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from central London to the Clink Prison Museum takes approximately 15-25 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares around £10-£20. Note that traffic congestion is common during peak hours.
-
Walking
If staying nearby in Southwark or Borough, walking to the museum is pleasant and takes about 10-20 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets. The route is accessible but can be busy with tourists.
The Clink Prison Museum location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Clink Prison Museum
Origins and Historical Significance of The Clink Prison
The Clink Prison, established in 1144, is one of England’s oldest prisons and was situated in Southwark, London, on land owned by the Bishop of Winchester. This private prison served the Liberty of the Clink, a local manor area, and was infamous for imprisoning a range of offenders from petty criminals to religious dissenters. Its name, first recorded in the 14th century, likely derives from the metallic clinking sound of shackles or the Flemish word for latch, symbolizing its grim function. Over centuries, it witnessed political and religious turmoil, incarcerating heretics, debtors, and rebels, including notable figures such as Sir Thomas Wyatt the Younger and John Greenwood, whose Puritan beliefs led to imprisonment and execution.Architecture and Physical Setting
Though the original prison was destroyed in 1780 during the Gordon Riots and never rebuilt, the museum today occupies the original site near Clink Street in Southwark. The museum blends medieval and Victorian architectural elements, recreating the oppressive atmosphere with dimly lit corridors, authentic stonework, and preserved fragments of Winchester Palace. Visitors encounter reconstructed cells, a torture chamber, and displays of medieval punishment devices, providing a tangible sense of the prison’s harsh conditions and the suffering endured by its inmates.Immersive Exhibits and Artifacts
The Clink Prison Museum offers an engaging, hands-on experience featuring a collection of original and replica torture implements such as the rack, thumbscrews, scold’s bridle, and the infamous rack. Interactive displays allow visitors to handle shackles and other restraints, while wax figures and atmospheric sound effects deepen the immersive storytelling. The museum also presents detailed historical narratives of prisoners’ lives, the corrupt practices of jailers, and the brutal methods used to extract confessions, all set within the claustrophobic confines of the recreated prison environment.Social and Cultural Context of the Clink
Located in an area historically known for its unruly and lively character, the Clink Prison was part of a neighborhood that thrived on entertainment and vice. The prison’s operations reflected the social hierarchies and religious conflicts of the time, with prisoners sometimes paying for lighter irons or privileges, and madams running brothels under gaoler protection. The museum explores these dynamics, revealing how the Clink was more than a place of punishment—it was a microcosm of medieval and early modern London’s complex social fabric.Legacy and Visitor Experience Today
Today, the Clink Prison Museum stands as a unique educational site, preserving the legacy of a notorious institution that shaped London’s history. It offers a compact but richly detailed journey into the past, suitable for history enthusiasts and families alike. The museum’s atmosphere is spooky yet respectful, avoiding horror theatrics while conveying the grim realities of imprisonment. Visitors can explore at their own pace, enjoy interactive elements, and even take souvenir photos behind prison bars, making it a memorable cultural experience in the heart of London.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Southwark Bridge
0.3 km
A graceful steel-arched Thames crossing with a rich history, distinctive green-and-yellow detailing, and a key role in London’s illuminated river landscape.
Historic England
0.4 km
Discover the rich tapestry of England's history at Historic England, a key organization dedicated to preserving the nation’s architectural treasures.
St Michael's Church : Paternoster Royal
0.5 km
Historic Anglican church on College Hill, rebuilt by Wren and linked to Dick Whittington, featuring stunning stained glass and a Hawksmoor spire.
London Stone (remaining part)
0.5 km
Discover London Stone, the ancient and mysterious limestone relic at 111 Cannon Street, a symbol of London's enduring history and legend.
Monument to the Great Fire of London
0.5 km
An iconic Doric column commemorating the Great Fire of London, offering panoramic city views from its historic 311-step climb.
113 Cannon St
0.5 km
A distinguished Grade II listed classical building in London’s financial district, showcasing early 20th-century architectural elegance.
Custom House
0.7 km
Historic Custom House on London’s Thames waterfront, a grand 19th-century customs hub echoing centuries of maritime trade and empire.
St Margaret Pattens Eastcheap
0.8 km
Medieval guild church with Wren's only 'true spire'—a 950-year sanctuary in the City's financial heart.
College of Arms
0.8 km
Discover the College of Arms: A Historic Icon of British Heraldry in the Heart of London, Showcasing Art and Tradition.
Statue of James Henry Greathead
0.8 km
Discover the statue honoring James Henry Greathead, the engineer whose invention shaped London's iconic Underground tunnels.
The National Firefighters Memorial
0.8 km
A solemn tribute in London honoring the bravery and sacrifice of firefighters who served during the Blitz and beyond.
Cornhill Fountain
0.8 km
A historic cast-iron water pump outside the Royal Exchange, symbolizing centuries of London's civic pride and public health innovation.
Threadneedle St & Royal Exchange
0.9 km
Explore the vibrant intersection of commerce and culture at Threadneedle St & Royal Exchange in London's financial district.
Threadneedle St
0.9 km
Historic Threadneedle Street: London’s iconic financial artery, home to the Bank of England and centuries of economic heritage.
St. Paul's Cathedral
0.9 km
Wren's masterpiece: climb London's most iconic dome for breathtaking city views and centuries of history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Winchester Palace
0.1 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Winchester Palace, a medieval bishop’s grand London residence with a stunning rose window by the Thames.
St Mary Overie's Dock
0.1 km
Historic Thames dock in London’s Southwark, home to the Golden Hinde II and steeped in medieval and maritime heritage.
Borough Yards
0.1 km
Discover Borough Yards, London’s vibrant fusion of historic railway arches and contemporary shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
Southwark View Point
0.2 km
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of London’s iconic skyline from the vibrant South Bank’s premier open-air viewpoint.
Borough Market
0.2 km
Discover Borough Market, London's historic food haven blending ancient tradition with vibrant culinary delights near London Bridge.
Southwark Cathedral
0.2 km
Discover Southwark Cathedral’s rich history, stunning Gothic architecture, and cultural ties in the heart of London’s historic South Bank.
Rose Theatre Trust
0.2 km
Explore the historic Rose Theatre Trust site, London's first Bankside playhouse where Shakespeare's early works came to life.
The London Bridge Experience & London Tombs
0.2 km
Dive into London’s eerie past with immersive storytelling and spine-chilling scares beneath the iconic London Bridge.
Bankside
0.3 km
Explore Bankside in London for a perfect mix of history, culture, and stunning riverside views amid a vibrant city atmosphere.
London Bridge
0.3 km
Discover the historic London Bridge, a stunning architectural marvel offering breathtaking views and a gateway to the heart of London's vibrant culture.
The Old Operating Theatre Museum and Herb Garret
0.3 km
Step into Europe’s oldest surviving surgical theatre, hidden in a church attic, and explore the raw, pre-anaesthetic world of 19th-century surgery and herbal medicine.
George
0.3 km
Step into London’s last galleried coaching inn, The George, where centuries of history meet traditional pub charm in a unique Southwark setting.
Menier Chocolate Factory
0.3 km
Experience cutting-edge theatre in a historic 19th-century chocolate factory with intimate performances and rich industrial charm in Southwark, London.
Lantern Ghost Tours
0.3 km
Discover London’s haunted past with Lantern Ghost Tours, blending history, ghost stories, and atmospheric pub stops near London Bridge.
Sam Wanamaker Playhouse
0.3 km
Experience Shakespearean drama by candlelight in this intimate, Jacobean-inspired indoor playhouse on London’s historic Bankside.
Essential places to dine
Madison
0.8 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
14 Hills
1.0 km
Experience modern British cuisine in a lush, sky-high garden with breathtaking panoramic views over London’s iconic skyline.
La Dame de Pic London
1.0 km
Discover refined French gastronomy and elegant dining in a historic London landmark with two Michelin stars and innovative cuisine.
Mercato Metropolitano
1.1 km
A vibrant, sustainable community food market in Elephant & Castle offering global flavors, local sourcing, and a lively social atmosphere.
Sea Containers Restaurant
1.1 km
Stylish Modern British dining with iconic Thames views on London’s vibrant Southbank, perfect for brunch, dinner, and special occasions.
Restaurant Story
1.1 km
Experience a two Michelin-starred culinary journey where storytelling meets British fine dining in the heart of London Bridge.
Paradiso Burger & Cocktail Bar Southbank
1.3 km
Vibrant riverside spot in Southbank serving gourmet burgers, cocktails, and bottomless brunch with stunning Thames views.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
1.5 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
1.5 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
1.5 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
Brasserie Blanc - Southbank
1.6 km
Authentic French brasserie dining with hearty seasonal dishes and rustic charm on London’s lively South Bank.
St. John
1.6 km
Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Wahaca Southbank
1.7 km
Experience vibrant Mexican street food in a unique riverside setting with scenic Thames views and lively atmosphere at Wahaca Southbank.
The Archduke
1.7 km
Lively steakhouse and wine bar in Waterloo with superb Scotch beef, classic desserts, and live jazz in a buzzy, inviting atmosphere.
Southbank Centre Food Market
1.7 km
A lively weekend street food market on London’s South Bank offering diverse global cuisines in a vibrant riverside setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bankside Arches Boutique
0.8 km
Discover unique London gifts and handcrafted treasures inside Blackfriars Station’s charming Bankside Arches Boutique.
The Royal Exchange
0.8 km
A majestic neoclassical landmark blending 450 years of London’s trading history with luxury shopping in the City’s financial heart.
One New Change
0.8 km
Modern glass landmark with free rooftop views of St Paul's Cathedral and London skyline.
Tower of London Shop
0.9 km
Explore the Tower of London Shop for unique souvenirs that celebrate British heritage and history in the heart of London.
Traders Gate
0.9 km
A long-standing family-run gift shop on Tower Hill, offering classic London souvenirs and local charm just steps from the Tower of London.
Tower Bridge - Engine Rooms and Official Gift Shop
1.1 km
Explore the fascinating history of Tower Bridge at the Engine Rooms and shop for unique gifts at the Official Gift Shop.
SUCK UK Alternative Gifts (OXO Tower)
1.1 km
Discover quirky, clever gifts and homewares at SUCK UK’s flagship store in London’s iconic OXO Tower.
Brand Academy Independent Gift Shop
1.1 km
Dive into a world of whimsical designs and unique finds at this South Bank gem, where global brands meet emerging talents in the heart of Oxo Tower Wharf.
j-me original design ltd
1.2 km
Whimsical designs with a humorous twist from London's Oxo Tower creative hub – quirky home gifts blending fun, function, and British ingenuity.
Sugar And Style
1.3 km
Discover design-led fashion accessories in Gabriel's Wharf, London's arty South Bank riverside haven blending style, creativity, and Thames views.
Bermondsey Antique Market
1.3 km
Uncover vintage treasures at London’s oldest antiques market, where history meets haggling every Friday morning in Bermondsey Square.
Barbican Shop
1.5 km
Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
Middlesex Textiles
1.5 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Petticoat Lane Market
1.5 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Smithfield Market
1.5 km
London’s oldest wholesale meat market, where history and commerce meet in the heart of the city.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar near Monument
0.6 km
Vibrant underground cocktail bar near Monument, blending creative drinks with a lively, speakeasy-style party atmosphere.
The Old School Yard
0.8 km
Step into a lively retro playground with expertly crafted cocktails, classic arcade games, and a vibrant 80s and 90s atmosphere in London Bridge.
Nine Lives
0.8 km
A subterranean Bermondsey bar blending Mexican spirits, sustainable craft cocktails, and vibrant sharable dishes in a boho-chic setting.
The Bootlegger
0.8 km
Step into The Bootlegger’s hidden Lime Street basement for expertly crafted cocktails, live jazz, and a true 1920s speakeasy vibe in the heart of London.
The Hung Drawn & Quartered, EC3
0.8 km
Historic pub near Tower Hill, blending dark medieval history with refined ales and classic British fare in a Grade II listed building.
Doggett's Coat and Badge
0.9 km
A large, riverside Nicholson’s pub on Blackfriars Bridge offering classic British fare, real ales and a rooftop terrace with strong Thames views.
Demon, Wise & Partners
1.0 km
Classic basement cocktail bar blending historic City charm with expert mixology in London’s financial district.
Lyaness
1.0 km
Innovative cocktails and sustainable mixology with stunning Thames views in London’s stylish South Bank hotspot.
Black Parrot
1.2 km
Discover London’s top rum bar with expertly crafted cocktails, immersive masterclasses, and a lively yet intimate atmosphere in Bride Court.
Punch Tavern
1.2 km
Historic Victorian Gin Palace on Fleet Street, famed for its Punch magazine heritage and vast gin selection in the heart of London.
The Alchemist Bevis Marks
1.2 km
Experience London’s theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular mixology with Victorian charm and all-day dining in Aldgate.
Moonshine Saloon
1.3 km
Step into London’s Moonshine Saloon for an immersive Wild West cocktail adventure with live actors, games, and bespoke drinks made from your own spirits.
The Bell
1.5 km
A historic East End pub blending traditional charm and local spirit near Petticoat Lane Market.
Dirty Dicks
1.5 km
Historic London pub with quirky charm, classic ales, and lively atmosphere near Liverpool Street Station.
The Understudy
1.5 km
Riverside craft beers, KERB street food, and Thames views at the National Theatre's lively bar – perfect for pre-show bites or late-night hangs on London's South Bank.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Steel Yard
0.4 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
Ministry of Sound
1.2 km
London's legendary dance music cathedral since 1991, where world-class sound systems and global DJs fuel euphoric nights across four pulsing rooms.
Corsica Studios
1.6 km
Experience London’s underground music pulse at Corsica Studios, where intimate vibes meet exceptional sound beneath historic railway arches.
STRAWBERRY SUNDAE
1.7 km
Retro rave haven in Waterloo Arches: Daytime hardcore beats, 90s DJ legends, and industrial euphoria from midday to midnight.
Cirque Du Soul
1.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti tunnel for soul-stirring electronic nights at this underground nightclub haven.
We Are Waterloo
1.8 km
Dive into Leake Street's graffiti heart where street art meets thumping beats in London's ultimate underground nightclub haven.
Proud Late
1.9 km
Dive into two-storey glamour under Waterloo Bridge: cabaret acrobatics, burlesque dazzle, supper feasts, and non-stop clubbing till 5am in London's West End nightlife epicenter.
London Best Night Clubs
1.9 km
Experience London’s legendary Ministry of Sound, where cutting-edge sound meets dynamic club culture in a multi-room dance haven.
XOYO LONDON
2.1 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
E1
2.1 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
The Boat Show Comedy Club
2.1 km
London’s premier floating comedy club aboard the historic Tattershall Castle, blending laughter with iconic riverside views and vibrant nightlife.
Carwash Nightclub
2.2 km
Experience Europe’s longest-running disco club in London’s West End, where retro beats, vibrant crowds, and themed parties create unforgettable nights.
The Hoxton Pony
2.2 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Heaven
2.2 km
London’s iconic gay superclub under the railway arches — big nights, loud music, drag, and late finishes in the heart of the West End.
Bunga Bunga Covent Garden
2.3 km
A neon-soaked, pizza-and-karaoke supper club under Drury Lane — 90s nostalgia, stage shows and shareable Italian feasts.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Quirky
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- 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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
