Evening Behind Bars Returns for 2026

Evening Behind Bars at Shepton Mallet Prison returns for 2026, bringing back a series of immersive social events that combine fascinating history, engaging speakers, and a truly unique setting. These evenings are designed not just to entertain, but to immerse visitors in thought-provoking topics linked to the prison’s past, alongside themed talks, demonstrations, and exhibitions.

A Social Hub for Curious Minds

More than just a talk, Evening Behind Bars is a social experience. These events bring together people with shared interests, whether that’s history, crime, the supernatural, or unusual stories, for an evening of discovery and conversation.

Visitors entering Shepton Mallet Prison

Upcoming Events

Serial Killers

25 March 2026 | 6:00pm – 8:00pm

Join research historian Dave Cable for an evening exploring the psychology of serial killers. The talk includes the chilling story of Amelia Dyer, who was incarcerated at Shepton Mallet Prison in the 1870s before later being executed at Newgate.

The evening includes a Q&A session and refreshments, making it perfect for fans of dark history, especially those brave enough to walk home afterwards.

A room with a small audience facing the front with a presenter delivering the event

Supernatural Meets the Courtroom

18 May 2026 | 6:00pm – 8:00pm

Criminal barrister and ghost enthusiast Naomi Ryan presents a fascinating talk blending forensic fact with eerie folklore and extraordinary courtroom stories.

Step into a world where ghosts, witches, and legends collide with real-life law, and discover how strange beliefs have shaped some of history’s most unusual legal cases. Ideal for anyone interested in ghost stories, criminal law, or historical curiosities.

Superdogs: Super Training

1 July 2026 | 6:00pm – 8:00pm

Experienced dog trainer Jo Thiselwaite demonstrates how dogs are trained to detect prison contraband. A regular user of the prison for specialist training, Jo will explain what makes a great sniffer dog and how the training process works.

Visitors will also see techniques demonstrated by Jo’s own dog in a safe, controlled environment, along with practical tips that can be used when training pets at home.

Two male handlers and their work dogs pictured on prison landings

Black History Month

October 2026 | Date TBC

Historian Dave Cable returns to share research on Black American soldiers imprisoned at Shepton Mallet during the 1940s, including the powerful stories of two soldiers executed at the prison.

This little-known chapter of history connects to the touring exhibition “Brown Babies,” which explores the stories of children born to Black American GIs and white British women during the Second World War.

A black history month exhibition hosted at Shepton Mallet Prison

Whether you’re drawn by true crime, fascinating history, unusual stories, or hands-on demonstrations, Evening Behind Bars offers a unique chance to experience Shepton Mallet Prison after hours. Secure your tickets today!