WELCOME TO SHEPTON MALLET PRISON
Experience a traditional Victorian prison, set across two wings with 178 cells.
Explore the Reception where new prisoners were processed, the exercise yard, the main wings and feel the atmosphere in the darkest part of the prison, the Execution Room, which was used until 1961.
Our Guided Tours are run by ex-Prison Officers, who will give you first-hand insight into crimes committed by inmates and what their daily life was like inhabiting this fascinating prison which was built to house 350 men and 22 women.
DIVE INTO 400 YEARS OF BRITISH HISTORY
FILLED WITH FASCINATING TALES
Shepton Mallet Prison is one of the UK’s most notorious Victorian prisons which welcomes over 300 prisoners across 178 cells and four wings. Steeped in history and jaw-dropping true stories, look forward to a unique insight into life behind bars.
From infamous prison escapes to coldblooded crimes and the day-to-day activities of the inmates; Shepton Mallet Prison is full of unforgettable stories that will amaze and astound you!
Awesome family day out. The whole experience from entering the prison to leaving was welcome, authentic, unique and comes highly recommended.
WHAT WE HAVE TO OFFER
TRIPADVISOR’S #1 DESTINATION
We’re proud to be rated the #1 tourist destination in Somerset on Tripadvisor, with an average rating of 5/5 from over 2,500 reviews. Visit us to see what we’re all about!
AS SEEN ON THE BIG SCREEN
From Hollywood blockbusters to BBC dramas, Shepton Mallet Prison has provided iconic backdrops to many films and TV series.
Most recently, the prison was used as the location for the hit drama, The Outlaws, starring Christopher Walken and Stephen Merchant.
Learn more
HOME TO INFAMOUS INMATES
The Kray Twins, Reginald Kray and Ronald Kray, were called up to do their National Service with Royal Fusiliers in 1952, but attempted to leave minutes after they arrived at their depot. Ronnie punched a Corporal who tried to stop them from leaving and thus, the twins were sentenced to serve 9 months in Shepton Mallet Prison. It was here they first met future rivals Charlie Richardson and George Cornell.
Learn more about our infamous inmates on our fascinating Guided Tours!
Our history
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