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Shepton Mallet, GB

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Shepton Mallet, GB

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Discover the secrets of the past and immerse yourself in the gripping history of Shepton Mallet Prison. This self-guided tour offers a unique and immersive prison experience that will leave you captivated from start to finish. Built in 1625, this heritage site is the oldest prison in the country, with over 400 years of stories to tell. Step behind its imposing walls and experience prison life from the Jacobean era to the modern day. As you explore the cells and corridors, you'll be transported back in time, gaining a fascinating insight into the lives of those who were once incarcerated here. With first-class customer service and a mission to preserve and promote the prison's history, Shepton Mallet Prison is a must-see for any history enthusiast or curious traveler.

About this experience

Free Cancellation For a full refund cancel at least before the start of your booking
Admission Included
1 hours - 5 hours
Suitable for 1-15 Participants
Self Guided Experience

Highlights

Immersive prison experience
World Class tourism experience
400 years of history
Unique behind bars journey
First class customer service

Included

All fees and taxes

Popular Hotels Closeby

More about this experience

Introduction

Discover the captivating history of Shepton Mallet Prison with the self-guided tour experience. This World Class tourism attraction takes visitors on a journey behind bars, immersing them in the fascinating stories and heritage of this unique site. Built in 1625, Shepton Mallet Prison holds over 400 years of history within its imposing walls, making it the oldest prison in the country.

What to Expect?

By embarking on the Shepton Mallet Prison self-guided tour, visitors can expect an immersive and educational experience like no other. Step into the shoes of prisoners from the Jacobean era to the modern day as you explore the cells, corridors, and exercise yards of this historic site. Learn about the daily routines, hardships, and notorious inmates that have inhabited this prison throughout its long history. The tour provides a deep understanding of the prison system and its impact on society over the centuries.

Who is this for?

The Shepton Mallet Prison self-guided tour is suitable for anyone with an interest in history, crime, or heritage sites. History enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to delve into the captivating stories of this centuries-old prison. It is also a thought-provoking experience for those interested in the criminal justice system and its evolution. Families can engage in a unique educational outing, providing children with a glimpse into the past. The tour is accessible to all, offering an inclusive experience for individuals of different abilities.

Why Book This?

Embarking on the Shepton Mallet Prison self-guided tour offers a remarkable opportunity to step back in time and experience the realities of prison life. The immersive nature of the tour allows visitors to truly connect with the history and stories of the inmates who once called this prison home. The knowledgeable staff provide excellent customer service and ensure a memorable visit. By booking this tour, visitors contribute to the preservation and promotion of Shepton Mallet Prison's history and heritage.

Good to Know

During the self-guided tour, visitors should wear comfortable footwear as they explore the various areas of the prison. The tour is suitable for all ages, but parental guidance is advised for younger children due to the nature of the subject matter. Photography is permitted in designated areas, allowing visitors to capture their experience and share it with others. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the gift shop, where you can find unique souvenirs and mementos to remember your visit to Shepton Mallet Prison.

Reviews

Visitors who have experienced the Shepton Mallet Prison self-guided tour have praised its immersive nature and the depth of historical information provided. Many have found the experience thought-provoking and educational, gaining a newfound understanding of prison life throughout the centuries. The knowledgeable staff have been commended for their friendly and helpful approach, ensuring a memorable visit for all. Overall, reviews emphasize the unique and captivating nature of this heritage site, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and curious minds alike.

About this product

How long before the event do I need to book?

You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

Mobile

Is an adult required for the booking?

At least one adult or senior required per booking

Meeting point & End point

Your Itinerary

Shepton Mallet Prison

If you’re looking for a day out with a difference, you’re in the right place. Explore the whole prison at your leisure, take photos and CELLfies as you soak up the atmosphere of this amazing 400-year-old prison. An ideal day out for families with young children who would like to investigate at their own pace. You will be given a visitor guide and map, as you explore around the prison use the sound boxes to learn the facts and history of the prison. The information boards add a fascinating background detail to your visit with staff always available to point you in the right direction and answer any questions you may have.

Admission Included

Additional information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We are dog friendly

Reviews

(255)

4.8 (255)

jasonjS8354HN

We visited with a large group and enjoyed exploring the prison. Very educational and the kids loved seeing where paddington 2 had been filmed.

BobbySophie1912

So fascinating and the children loved it. As the place is so big we barely came across other people so could really explore properly and take our time. Would highly recommend if visiting the area.

SunnyD1881

We visited today as a family of four, two of which are in their early teens, and even the kids enjoyed it all. We booked a self guided tour and enjoyed making our own way around. The cells were surprisingly small, and even the double ones would have felt cramped for the prisoners. The paint was peeling off in most of the buildings, giving it an air of decay, which made it feel very atmospheric. The condemned cell and the execution chamber were harrowing, not for any other reason than knowing how many people have met a grisly death at the hands of the hangman. We finished off with coffee and cake in the cafe. The cakes were homemade and very tasty. A great day was had by us all and the staff were very friendly and knowledgeable.

adrian w

I did the self guided tour as for personal reasons I wanted to take my time and also do some photography. The day before my planned visit a dental emergency arose and staff changed my ticket date with no fuss. I am sure some will highlight some parts were not open but I didn't really notice it and I liked the fact it had been kept as it was without being spruced up etc. Staff were so friendly and helpful and there were some really interesting little nuggets as you walked around. I went thinking spend and hour and was there over 3. Fabulous.

165peterj165

A totally amazing time had to explore and understand how the prison was run. We completely enjoyed ourselves and would be back again to enjoy it even more and maybe take in a guided tour as well.

442sandriam

Very interesting to walk around the old prison learnt a lot about the history and the inmates ( including the Krays) that were imprisoned there and didn’t realise the amount of films that were filmed there.

CAMPIEIan

Great experience, well worth the visit. Lots to see and read. Felt that a large shipping container in the yard against the Execution wall was not terribly in keeping plus the “bullet marks” were not highlighted. Places where signage could be a little clearer plus “way out” not that obvious. Please take the above comments as constructive criticism, I can imagine the work to maintain an old site this large, not to mention the funds, is extensive. Will definitely recommend it to our friends and visitors. The staff were excellent, friendly and very informative. Well worth a visit

Hayley V

Great day out for all the family including dogs! 4 adults, a 3year old and 2 dogs we all had a great time exploring the prison. We were lucky enough to go during the easter holiday and my 3 year old completed the easter egg hunt and got her bag of eggs at the end which was an added bonus. Next time I think we would like to do the guided tour so we can find out more about the prison.

123taz

Parking very limited Very interesting and this is a dog friendly venue. Took us just over an hour to walk around on our own.

28sharnp

Well worth a visit and an experience you never forget. A turbulent history in one building. Map given could be updated and numbers added to the revelant buildings. Council should give this listed building high tourist attraction by putting brown signs around Shepton Mallet and before town. Also put in guide books. All locals as well as holiday visitors should put this on their bucket list. We will go again with more family Well done to all who keep this going. Dogs allowed during the day.

Collected by Evendo, Tripadvisor & Viator

2024-05-05 02:07