Shrewsbury Prison

The current prison buildings are Victorian, built in 1868 but there has been a prison on that site since 1793. The prison was decommissioned by the Ministry of Justice in 2013 and is now open to the public as a tourist attraction offering a variety of tours including Guided and Self-Guided.

The Guided Tours are led by Prison Officers who showcase just what life was like, day and night, for prisoners, officers and visitors. During the two hours, they shine a light on what really happened, from the Victorians to the 21st century, behind the high prison walls. Tours take in two wings (one is particularly haunted) the exercise yards, the segregation cells, healthcare and the execution room including the condemned man's cell and the executioner's room.

Other tours including Ghost Tours are also available, which are the only tour that take you into the Georgian tunnels located below the Victorian building you see today.

Some visitors prefer to wander the vast site at their leisure, we hand out maps and there are clear signs around the site. Staff are always available to answer any questions.

There is also an area devoted to a wide range of activities including iCombat Laser Games, two prison themed escape rooms to choose from and Axe Throwing.

If this all sounds like thirsty work there is a restaurant on site offering excellent homemade food.