Shepton Mallet Prison: Guided Tour

Key Points

• Expert-led tour of Shepton Mallet Prison lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
• Guided by knowledgeable guides, including highlights like Victorian wings and execution rooms.
• Includes access to two Victorian prison wings, the Hard Labour Yard, and old Gate Lodge.
• Tour departs from Frithfield Lane in Shepton Mallet and is highly rated at 4.8/5 from 9 reviews.
• Self-guided exploration is also included, allowing visitors to discover the prison at their own pace.
• Cost is $29.63 per person, making it an interesting value for history enthusiasts and those curious about prison life.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Shepton Mallet Prison: An Unfiltered Historic Experience

The Shepton Mallet Prison offers a guided tour that goes beyond surface stories, giving visitors a raw and authentic look into over 400 years of prison history. Priced at $29.63 per person and lasting 1.5 hours, this tour promises a fascinating exploration of one of the world’s oldest prisons. It runs at 2 pm Monday to Friday and at 11 am and 2 pm on weekends and during school holidays. The tour is led by well-informed guides who bring the site’s stories alive, making it ideal for those interested in criminal history, architecture, or British heritage.

The tour not only includes a comprehensive guided experience but also grants access to a self-guided component, so visitors can revisit areas of interest at their own pace. This combination offers a balanced view of the prison’s history, with plenty of opportunities for photo-taking, reflection, and additional discovery.

Exploring the Victorian Prison Wings and Their Stories

One of the main highlights of this experience is the chance to walk through two Victorian wings. B Wing, the largest, once held 94 prisoners in 2001 but was known for overcrowding before decommissioning. C Wing was constructed in 1848 specifically for women and children, and played a secret role during WWII. Guides share vivid stories about daily life behind the steel doors, describing what it was like for prisoners, officers, and visitors.

The landing of these wings feels authentic, as visitors follow the same corridors used by inmates for centuries. The attention to detail in describing prisoner conditions and wartime secrecy makes these areas particularly compelling. It’s a chance to envision prison life in Victorian times and to reflect on the harsh realities faced by those incarcerated.

The Hard Labour Yard and the Tread Wheel

A key feature of the tour is visiting the Hard Labour Yard, where victims of Victorian punishment endured pointless and physically demanding tasks. The Tread Wheel, visible from here, stands as a stark reminder of the inhumane labour practices employed to punish prisoners in the 1800s.

Guides explain how hard labour was used as a form of deterrent and control, often with little regard for rehabilitation. The Tread Wheel is particularly notable for its physical intensity, offering visitors a glimpse into the punishing environment that inmates endured, making it a powerful history lesson.

The Old Gate Lodge and the Site’s Architectural Evolution

The Gate Lodge and Governor’s Office are among the oldest parts of the prison complex, dating back to the 1600s. These structures have seen many modifications over the centuries, reflecting the changing needs and functions of the prison.

A recent discovery allows visitors to explore an original cell—an unmissable chance to stand inside a prisoner’s cell and imagine their confined moments. The Gate Lodge also offers insight into the entry point of the prison and its expansion, making it an essential stop for understanding the building’s history.

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The Exercise Yard and the Old Governors House

Wander the large exercise yard, which overlooks three wings and the old Governors House. This open space was once a vital part of daily prison life, where inmates were allowed outdoor time under supervision. The views across the yard give a sense of the scale and layout of the prison.

The Governors House nearby showcases early 20th-century architecture and was once home to the prison’s administrative head. It provides context for the management of this historic site and adds to the authentic atmosphere of the tour.

The Execution Room and Final Resting Places

A particularly intense part of the tour is visiting the execution room, where 25 men were executed between 1889 and 1945. These executions, often carried out under the supervision of Albert Pierrepoint, reveal some of the controversies and crimes associated with the condemned.

The condemned cell, where prisoners spent their last days, is accessible, offering a deeply sobering perspective on capital punishment. Visitors can also see the final resting places of seven executed men and the site of military firing squad executions, providing a powerful conclusion to the tour.

The Guide’s Narratives and Their Impact

Reviews highlight guides like Jason and Jeremy for their knowledge and storytelling. They share fascinating facts, gruesome details, and personalized accounts of inmates and staff, which greatly enhance the experience. These guides help visitors connect emotionally to the site’s history, making the tour both educational and gripping.

The ability to hear stories from former inmates who returned to the site adds a unique dimension. Their stories, combined with the guides’ expertise, give a more complete picture of what life was really like inside these walls.

Practical Details and On-Site Amenities

The tour departs from the Shepton Mallet Prison visitor centre on Frithfield Lane. The site includes a cafe offering hot drinks and snacks, perfect for warming up after exploring the chilly and damp areas. There is also a gift shop with souvenirs, ideal for those wanting a tangible reminder of their visit.

The site is dog-friendly, and the self-guided tour allows additional time to explore parts of the prison independently. The tours are popular, so advance booking is recommended to secure a spot, especially during busy weekends and school holidays.

Physical Requirements and Visitor Tips

The prison can be damp and cold in places, so visitors should dress warmly. Some areas, like the original cells, may require getting on hands and knees, so comfortable footwear is advised. The guided tours tend to have a steady pace, making them accessible for most visitors, though some mobility limitations should be considered.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most?

This guided tour suits history buffs, crime enthusiasts, and those curious about Victorian architecture. The informative guides and authentic settings make it especially appealing to visitors interested in British penal history. The inclusion of self-guided exploration enhances flexibility, allowing visitors to linger in areas of particular interest.

Final Thoughts on the Shepton Mallet Prison Tour

The Shepton Mallet Prison guided tour offers a comprehensive and authentic experience of one of the UK’s oldest prisons. The expert guides, detailed storytelling, and access to historic wings and execution sites provide a deep insight into prison life, punishments, and the architecture over centuries.

While some parts are damp and chilly, this adds to the atmosphere rather than detracts from the experience. The $29.63 price point offers good value considering the depth of access and the guided storytelling. This tour is particularly well-suited for those interested in history, architecture, or criminal justice.

Visitors should book in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during peak times. The Shepton Mallet Prison guided tour stands out as a fascinating, educational, and slightly chilling look into the UK’s penal past, perfect for adventurous history lovers and curious minds alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does the Shepton Mallet Prison guided tour last?
  The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

• What are the tour times?
  Tours run at 2 pm Monday to Friday and 11 am and 2 pm on weekends and during school holidays.

• Is there a self-guided component?
  Yes, a self-guided tour is included, allowing extra time to explore independently.

• Where does the tour start?
  The tour begins at the Shepton Mallet Prison visitor centre on Frithfield Lane.

• What can I see during the tour?
  Visitors explore Victorian wings, the Hard Labour Yard, Gate Lodge, exercise yard, and execution room.

• Are there any amenities on site?
  The prison has a cafe and a gift shop. The site is dog-friendly.

• Is the tour suitable for children?
  Yes, it is older children friendly, but be prepared for cold, damp areas and some spaces requiring crouching.

• How much does the tour cost?
  The price is $29.63 per person.

• Can I cancel the booking?
  Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

• What makes this tour stand out?
  The combination of guided storytelling, access to historic wings, and the visiting of an execution room make it a unique and compelling experience.

  You can check availability for your dates here:
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