About Dartmoor Prison Museum
Step inside Britain's most notorious high-security jail to discover the harsh realities of prison life through authentic cells, exhibits and stories from Dartmoor's 200-year history of housing criminals.
What's nearby
- The Oratory 350m away
Distances as the crow flies, via Google
Good to know
Parking
- ✓Free car park
- ✓Paid car park
- ✓Free street
Accessibility
- ✓Accessible parking
- ✓Accessible entrance
- ✓Accessible toilet
Details via Google — worth confirming with the attraction before you travel, especially for access needs.
Opening hours
- Monday
- 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Tuesday
- 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Wednesday
- 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Thursday
- 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Friday
- 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
- Saturday
- 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Sunday
- 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Current hours may differ from the usual schedule above (e.g. holidays) — check Google Maps for today's hours.
What visitors say
A small museum on two levels with a large car park. Interesting history with much information displayed plus a few short videos. A lot of the incredible craftmanship of the prisoners is displayed including large paintings and large matchstick models. The closed prison is off limits.
· via Google
I feel I've gone to a different venue than most others leaving a review. I was quite disappointed. There seemed little logical ordering of exhibits. The information being provided didn't necessarily relate to the exhibits and often no explanation as to why some exhibits were there. In the places where the information was interesting it was necessary to stick fingers in your ears to avoid being distracted by nearby tv noise.
· via Google
Gave 4 and not three because the price is cheap. overall there are some good exhibits with good information but it's looking tired. Having worked in law and order there are far more stories that could be told about these exhibits in better ways there is far too many exhibits of the inmates work. Some is amazing but 50% not so this needs scaling down more emphasis in the smuggling and weapons made and drug equipment needs much more explanation but overall spent 3 hrs there and it cost 17quid for family of four and a guid book so at this price 4 star
· via Google
Took a group and learnt about the history of the prison. Very interesting exhibits including items made by prisoners
· via Google
Visitors say this museum offers fascinating insights into prison history with interesting exhibits, including artifacts made by prisoners and confiscated contraband. They also highlight the knowledgeable and friendly staff, excellent value for the £5 entry fee, and convenient free parking.
Some reviews mention that certain areas can be closed off.
Summary via Google
At a glance
- Address
- Princetown, Yelverton, PL20 6RR Get directions
- Category
- Museums & Galleries
- Guest rating
- 4.3 / 5 (1,059 reviews)
- Suitable for
- Ages 9+
- Setting
- Indoor
- Good for children
- Yes
- Toilets on site
- Yes
- Destination
- Princetown