Shrewsbury Prison

Shrewsbury Prison is known as the world’s most interactive prison. A heritage led, world class tourism experience that began inspiring, immersing, educating and engaging visitors through a journey behind bars in 2015.

Shrewsbury Prison was built in 1793 and was decommissioned in 2013. Since its closure, their mission has been to preserve, protect and promote the history and heritage of the momentous, 200-year-old building by shining a light on prison life from the Georgian era to modern day.

Today the prison offers many tours, activities and events to suit all interests and tastes.

Guided Tours bring the prison to life with no holds barred, led by Prison Officers with encyclopaedic knowledge of the building and those that were incarcerated here, they can share real stories and experiences. Self-Guided Tours offer visitors the time to explore and discover at their own leisure with plenty of information points throughout the site and 'CELLfie' opportunities to have your ‘mugshots’ taken. Learn about the dark and paranormal history from the second most haunted prison in the world through one of their Ghost Tours. These are the only tours where it cannot be guaranteed what you will see or hear as its also the only tour where visitors will be taken down into the Georgian Tunnels located below the prison, where many Georgian prisoners would have been packed into a small dark space with improper living standards.

Activities provide a fun, adrenaline-charged day out in an exciting atmosphere. Choose between iCombat Laser Games, Archery Wars, Kids Archery, Axe Throwing and two different themed, state-of-the-art Escape Rooms. The Cell Escape Room is a fun-filled, puzzle-based, race against time to make your way to freedom whilst The Hole Escape Room provides more of a challenge as you are handcuffed in complete darkness.

Hen parties, stag dos, birthday celebrations or just a bit of group fun have many different event options to select from and can be paired with activities, food and drink. Prison Break is the world’s largest escape game and the ultimate escape from a real prison. A 'Night Behind Bars' allows guests to do the time without committing the crime. Some prefer to stay in their cells, whilst others go hunting for paranormal activity in the dead of night. Prison Officers are available 24/7 to answer any questions and look out for good behaviour.

There is even an on-site restaurant offering freshly baked cakes, food, and barista-style hot and cold drinks.

 Grab the leads and harnesses! Shrewsbury Prison welcomes all well-behaved dogs and of course, guide dogs. Tails will be wagging as on-site you’ll be able to find bowls of fresh water dotted around for your dogs to lap up and enjoy.

Shrewsbury Prison is open Monday - Sunday from 10:00am - 17:00pm and is easily accessible located in central Shrewsbury with excellent transport links.