WELCOME TO SHREWSBURY PRISON
Experience a traditional Victorian prison, set across two wings with 194 cells.
Explore the Reception where new prisoners were processed, the exercise yard – made famous in films such as The Shawshank Redemption – 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 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.
Learn more
ACTIVITIES
- Escape room challenges
- iCombat, Archery & Axe Throwing
- Fun for groups of all ages
DIVE INTO 200 YEARS OF BRITISH HISTORY
FILLED WITH FASCINATING TALES
Shrewsbury Prison is one of the UK’s most notorious Victorian prisons which welcomes over 300 prisoners across 194 cells and two 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; Shrewsbury 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 Shropshire on Tripadvisor, with an average rating of 4.5/5 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, Shrewsbury Prison has provided iconic backdrops to many films and TV series.
Most recently, the prison was used as the location for the hit BBC drama, Time, starring Sean Bean and Stephen Graham.
HOME TO INFAMOUS INMATES
Robert Welch was a key member of the infamous 15-man gang that stole £2.6 million from a Royal Mail train in August 1963. This is the equivalent to £50 million today! He was incarcerated in Shrewsbury in 1964 following a 30-year sentence.
Learn more about our infamous inmates on our fascinating Guided Tours!
PRISON TOURS
- Guided by Prison Officers
- Self Guided option
- Great for all ages
01743 343 100