Guided Tour of Shrewsbury Prison, 1.5h

Taking a tour of a historic prison gives you a glimpse into the lesser known lives of the past.

If they could talk, the walls of Shrewsbury Prison would tell stories of the thousands of both male and female prisoners who were interned here during its operational history. They tell you about the executions carried out here by one of the twentieth century’s most famous hangmen, Albert Pierrepoint, and the changes in prison life that took place between its opening in the Victorian era to its closure in 2013.

The walls can’t talk, but the tour guides are former prison officers who, from years of guarding prisoners and patrolling the site, know this institution inside out.

They’ll lead you along the galleries where they made their nightly patrols, usher you into the cells that held inmates show you the governor’s office and the recreation yard, all the while revealing the secrets and telling the tales that make this one of the most popular dark tourism destinations in the country.

The tour lasts 1.5 hours, after which you can remain with us, though not at His Majesty’s pleasure - and enjoy the cafe.

Book now and spend some time in Shrewsbury Prison - without it feeling like a punishment!