Shepton Mallet Prison
Shepton Mallet, Somerset and Bristol
View on Google MapsPhoto: Shepton Mallet Prison
About Shepton Mallet Prison
Step inside one of Britain's oldest former jails for a gripping glimpse into centuries of prison life and infamous inmates. Note that historic buildings mean limited access for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
What's nearby
- Whitstone School 200m away
- Domino's Pizza - Shepton Mallet 300m away
- Denela's Bakery 300m away
- Longbridge House 450m away
Distances as the crow flies, via Google
Good to know
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible parking
- ✓Accessible entrance
- ✓Accessible toilet
Payment
- ✓Credit cards
- ✓Debit cards
- ✓Contactless
Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.
Photos
Photos via Google
Facilities
Opening hours
- Monday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday
- 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What visitors say
Great day out. Lots to explore. The guided tours are great for gaining loads of information. We explored and found loads to look at. Whether you follow the arrows or go off on your own adventure. Few free car parking spaces around the prison and plenty of pay and display in the area. Good selection of cakes and drinks to purchase and a little gift store, however I’d recommend taking your own lunch.
· via Google
We hosted a corporate training day followed by a guided tour and it was all excellent. As a tourist attraction it's unique, our guide Will was brilliant and so atmospheric. Would love to return for one of the ghost nights, there are certain areas in the prison that felt like things would go bump in the night. Highly recommend for all ages.
· via Google
Didnt really know what to expect. We started with an escape room. That really got the grey matter working. The hour went far too quick and didnt manage to escape 😞 We did well seeing it was our first ever. Then back to the cafe and gift shop for coffee and cake before we went on a tour of the prison. We wish we had done the guided tour as there is so much history here and stories to be told. Walking around by ourselves still took a good hour and a half. Will definitely be coming back for a guided tour. The grey drizzle day definitely added to the atmosphere. Just talking to the staff you can tell they have a real passion for the place and are willing to share their stories. Really can't recommend Shepton Prison enough thankyou for a great day
· via Google
We visited Shepton Mallet Prison today and had an absolutely fantastic time. If you are looking for a day out that is equal parts eerie, educational, and engaging, this is it! What made it great: • The Atmosphere: Walking through the wings and the exercise yards is incredibly evocative. You really get a sense of the history behind the walls. • The Guides: If you get the chance to do a guided tour, take it. The stories (often from ex-officers) really bring the place to life in a way a standard museum can't. • The History: From the Victorian era to its secret role in WWII, there is so much to learn. The execution room is particularly sobering but a must-see. • Well Organised: The staff were brilliant and the site is very well preserved. It’s a brilliant, unique experience that stays with you long after you leave. Highly recommend for history buffs or anyone looking for something a bit different in Somerset!
· via Google
Visitors say this historic prison offers a unique and engaging experience with a rich history, including various tour options like guided, self-guided, ghost, and escape room tours. They also highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff, who enhance the experience with fascinating stories and helpfulness. Guests mention the reasonable prices and the availability of a cafe and gift shop.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Frithfield Lane, Shepton Mallet, BA4 5FQ Get directions
- Category
- Sightseeing & Attractions
- Guest rating
- 4.8 / 5 (693 reviews)
- Suitable for
- All Ages
- Suggested visit
- 1-2 hours
- Setting
- Indoor
- Good for children
- Yes
- Toilets on site
- Yes
- Destination
- Shepton Mallet