History behind Shepton Mallet and Shrewsbury
Constructed back in 1610, Somerset’s historic HM Shepton Mallet prison has seen many famous inmates cross through its doors including the notorious Kray twins, Reggie and Ronnie. Many death sentences were administered on site with the last hanging taking place in 1945. Although it closed as a working prison in 2013, it now offers guided and self-guided tours for those brave enough to wander the eerie halls. Former inmates lie in unmarked graves throughout the grounds, so it’s not surprising that the prison has a spine-tingling haunted reputation.
Built in 1793, Shrewsbury Prison was decommissioned back in 2013. Known as the Dana, the prison’s Victorian architecture will lead you to think it’s any old prison - yet the walls, jail cells and hallways hold chilling secrets. Widely regarded as one of the toughest institutions in its day, the prison has seen its fair share of high-profile inmates including train robber Robert Welch and “Doctor Death” Sidney Noble. Just like Shepton Mallet, Shrewsbury Prison is now open to the general public to explore and for those daring enough, to sleep in.
The Cell
A ‘Night Behind Bars’ is a 12-hour experience, in which guests spend the night in a cell to get a taste of what the actual prisoners endured. Whether you stay in Shepton Mallet or Shrewsbury Prison, you’ll have to bring your own torches, bedding and a roll mat because unsurprisingly, this is not luxurious accommodation where mattresses are provided. Those who can’t face sleeping alone will need to bring a camp bed to share with their willing accomplice. But fear not, detailed instructions are emailed to you before arrival summarising what to bring, the rules, your cell allocation and a specific evening arrival time for your freedom to be revoked.
The cells themselves are furnished with a rusting metal bed, small toilet and sink. To help facilitate your daydreaming of freedom day, there’s even a small window high up by the ceiling to remember life exists beyond the walls of the cell. Those easily frightened should be on guard for spooky noises as cell doors are frequently heard opening by themselves and footsteps on the walkways.
The Entertainment
After getting as settled as one can be to spend the night in a prison cell, the entertainment portion of the evening kicks off around 10pm with a no-holds-barred guided tour. Led by one of the guides with an encyclopaedic knowledge of the prison’s history, you’ll wander through the Victorian wings and see the themed cells and segregation unit. Hear all the tales of the grisly occurrences in the harsh and brutal strip cell as well as the harrowing execution room.
Along the way, your guide will regale you with fascinating facts about the history of the prison and the many hauntings, shining a light on what life was really like for prisoners, officers and visitors. Those with a weak stomach may want to miss out the hospital infirmary, showcasing realistic mannequins and bloodied sheets. After the tour, guests are free to spend their time as they wish - whether that’s continuing to explore the site, retiring to their cell for an inevitably sleepless night, ghost hunting or playing games to bide their time.
The original prison kitchen will serve hot meals and snacks until 22:00 should you wish to stock up ahead of your night ghost hunting. And be prepared, good-behaviour bond permitting, you’ll be awoken at 7am to the fresh smells of coffee and a hearty breakfast ahead of your release back into the world.
Guided Tours
Those who wish to not spend the night can still get a piece of the action with a guided prison tour. The two-hour tour involves visiting never-before-seen areas of the prison, complete with stomach-turning tales of prison life. There’s even the chance for a ‘Closed Cell’ experience, which involves entering cells and having the door locked behind you for a shorter period of time than 12 hours.
And if the setting isn’t adrenaline-inducing enough, there’s even ghost tours dedicated to what lurks behind the high prison walls. Listen in horror to the sinister side of jail life including torture, murder and hangings as well as one of the most legendary spirits the “White Lady”.
Guided Prison Tour for Two
Spend some time behind bars for the world’s most interactive prison tour. For a fascinating insight into more than 400 years of history, you’ll follow an ex-prison officer (who once managed the very wings you’ll be walking) behind the scenes of at one of three historic prisons.
Find out more
The Future of Shepton Mallet Prison
Sadly, Shepton Mallet Prison’s future is uncertain - developers want to turn it into flats but protected by its Grade II status, they’re limited in what they could do. The Campbell Group are very much hoping to be able to retain it as a heritage site with their case greatly strengthened by the rising popularity of visitors embarking on guided tours and the ultimate experience: sleeping behind bars.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to get to Shepton Mallet Prison?
Castle Cary train station is 15 minutes away with both taxis and buses frequently running to the site. Alternatively, there is a small prison car park in addition to a pay and display nearby.
How to get to Shrewsbury Prison?
Shrewsbury Train Station is situated directly opposite the prison, just 50m from the entrance. Alternatively, there’s a small car park opposite with additional parking available at both the train station and nearby on Howard Street.
How much does it cost to spend a Night Behind Bars?
The cost is £69 per person.
Are there any facilities at the prisons?
At both Shepton and Shrewsbury, there are small cafes for snacks and hot drinks throughout the visit.
Summary
While before reading this, you may not have known such an experience was possible. Hopefully by now, we’ve enlightened you about the quirky accommodation our country offers. And good news is that there’s plenty more weird and wonderful experiences waiting for you to discover.
