Shepton Mallet Prison’s captivating history is brought to life through a guided tour that delves into the lives of its former inmates and officers. Priced at $27.92 per person, this 1.5-hour experience offers a unique opportunity to explore the prison’s key landmarks, including the Hard Labour Yard and Tread Wheel building. What sets this tour apart is the chance to step inside the execution room, where a haunting past unfolds. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious, this immersive experience promises to leave a lasting impression. With the option to choose between guided and self-guided tours, visitors can tailor their experience to their preferences.
This experience made our list of the Best Tours In Shepton Mallet.
Good To Know
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The guided tour of Shepton Mallet Prison offers a 1.5-hour immersive exploration of the prison’s history, including insights into the lives of inmates, officers, and visitors.
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The tour features visits to key locations like the Hard Labour Yard, Tread Wheel building, historic Gate Lodge, and the condemned man’s cell and execution room.
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Visitors can learn about the prison’s significant role during the Second World War, particularly the experiences of women and children incarcerated in the C Wing.
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The tour provides insights into the controversies surrounding capital punishment and the crimes committed by those sentenced to death at the prison.
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Advance booking is recommended due to the tour’s popularity, and visitors can choose between a guided tour or a self-guided exploration option.
Tour Overview
The Shepton Mallet Prison tour offers visitors a guided exploration of the historic site, priced at $27.92 per person and lasting approximately 1.5 hours.
The tour includes a live guide and audio guide in English, providing in-depth historical insights. Visitors can also opt for a self-guided tour to further explore the prison at their own pace.
Flexibility is built into the experience, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about the prison’s past, the Shepton Mallet tour promises an immersive and informative experience.
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Historical Insights
According to the information provided, the Shepton Mallet Prison tour is led by an expert guide who possesses extensive knowledge of the prison’s storied past. Visitors can explore two Victorian-era prison wings – B Wing, which had a capacity of 94 inmates as of 2001, and C Wing, built in 1848 specifically for women and children. Notably, C Wing played a significant role during the Second World War. Plus, the tour delves into the real-life experiences of prisoners, officers, and visitors, offering a comprehensive understanding of the facility’s complex history.
| Key Historical Insights | |
|---|---|
| B Wing Capacity | 94 inmates (as of 2001) |
| C Wing Purpose | Women and children |
| C Wing WWII Role | Significant |
| Prisoner Experiences | Explored |
| Officer/Visitor Experiences | Explored |
Key Locations
Visitors can explore key locations within the prison, including the Hard Labour Yard to understand forms of hard labor from the 1800s. They’ll also view the Tread Wheel building, known for its physical demands on prisoners.
Plus, the tour takes guests through the historic Gate Lodge and Governor’s Office, which date back to the 1600s. One of the most intriguing discoveries is an original cell recently uncovered, offering a rare glimpse into the prison’s past.
These sites provide valuable insights into the daily lives and experiences of both prisoners and staff who occupied the facility over the centuries. Exploring these key locations is a captivating part of the Shepton Mallet Prison tour.
Execution Room
Visitors can walk through the condemned man’s cell leading to the prison’s execution room, where 25 men were executed on-site between 1889 and 1945, often under the supervision of Albert Pierrepoint.
The executions were controversial, with many questioning the convictions. Guests can learn about the crimes committed by those sentenced to death and the debates surrounding capital punishment.
The final resting place of seven executed men is also on the tour, as well as the site of two military firing squad executions.
This powerful and solemn part of the prison’s history provides a sobering glimpse into the harsh realities of the criminal justice system in the past.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyVisitor Information
Tours of Shepton Mallet Prison are quite popular, so advance booking is strongly recommended. Scheduled tours take place at 2 PM Monday through Friday, as well as 11 AM and 2 PM on weekends and school holidays.
On-site, there’s a café offering barista-style coffee and snacks, along with a gift shop for souvenirs. The meeting point for all tours is the Shepton Mallet Prison visitor centre, located at Frithfield Lane, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 5FQ.
Visitors can explore the prison’s rich history at their own pace by opting for a self-guided tour. The guided tours, led by expert guides, provide in-depth insights into the prison’s past, including the experiences of prisoners, officers, and visitors.
With advance booking, guests can ensure they secure their spot for an unforgettable glimpse into Shepton Mallet Prison’s captivating past.
Booking and Pricing
The guided tour of Shepton Mallet Prison costs $27.92 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking in advance is highly recommended due to the tour’s popularity.
The tour lasts 1.5 hours and includes a live tour guide as well as an audio guide in English.
Visitors can also explore the prison further on a self-guided tour.
Tours are scheduled at 2 PM Monday to Friday, and 11 AM and 2 PM on weekends and school holidays.
The on-site café offers barista-style coffee, snacks, and a gift shop for souvenirs.
The meeting point is the Shepton Mallet Prison visitor centre.
Getting to the Prison
Shepton Mallet Prison is located at Frithfield Lane, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, BA4 5FQ, which can be easily accessed by visitors. The prison is well-connected by public transportation, making it convenient for those without a car. To help plan your visit, here’s a table outlining the travel options:
| Transport | Duration | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Bus | 15-20 minutes | Every 30 minutes |
| Train | 30-40 minutes | Every hour |
| Taxi | 10-15 minutes | Available on-demand |
| Driving | 15-20 minutes | N/A |
The meeting point for the guided tour is the Shepton Mallet Prison visitor centre, where you can find parking, a café, and a gift shop to enhance your overall experience.
What to Expect
Once visitors arrive at the Shepton Mallet Prison visitor centre, they can expect a captivating guided tour that delves into the prison’s rich history and immersive experiences.
Led by expert guides, the tour covers two Victorian-era prison wings, offering insights into the daily lives of inmates, officers, and visitors.
Highlights include:
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Exploring the Hard Labour Yard to understand the physically demanding forms of punishment from the 1800s.
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Witnessing the Tread Wheel building, a symbol of the prison’s harsh regime.
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Visiting the Gate Lodge and Governor’s Office, dating back to the 1600s.
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Stepping into the condemned man’s cell and the execution room, learning about the 25 men executed on-site between 1889 and 1945.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Take Photos During the Tour?
Photography is generally allowed during the tour, but visitors should check with the tour guide upon arrival. Some restricted areas may prohibit photos for safety or preservation reasons. Guests are advised to be respectful and follow the guide’s instructions regarding photography.
Are There Any Accessibility Options for Disabled Visitors?
The prison offers accessible options for disabled visitors, including wheelchair access and guided tours adapted for specific needs. Visitors should inquire about accessibility when booking to ensure their requirements can be accommodated.
Do the Tours Run in All Weather Conditions?
The tours at Shepton Mallet Prison generally run in all weather conditions. Visitors are advised to dress appropriately for the weather, as the prison tour involves exploring both indoor and outdoor areas of the historic site.
Can I Purchase Tickets On-Site or Is Pre-Booking Required?
Tickets can be purchased on-site, but advance booking is recommended as the tours are popular. Pre-booking ensures availability, especially during peak times like weekends and school holidays. On-site ticket sales are subject to tour capacity.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Recommended Ages for the Tours?
The tour is open to all ages, but children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. It’s recommended for ages 12 and up to fully appreciate the historical content and somber nature of the prison tour.
Sum Up
Shepton Mallet Prison offers a captivating guided tour that takes visitors on a haunting journey through the prison’s history.
With live and audio guides, the tour provides insights into the lives of inmates and officers, and highlights key locations like the Hard Labour Yard and the execution room.
Whether you opt for a guided or self-guided tour, this immersive experience is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
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