The prison was built on the site of the town's medieval castle, which was originally constructed by Roger de Montgomery.
The facility was a site of execution until 1961, with the last hanging occurring on-site.
The prison incorporates a 'Panopticon' design element, intended to allow guards to observe prisoners without the prisoners knowing if they were being watched.
It is frequently investigated by paranormal groups due to its history and reputation as a haunted site.
The prison cells are remarkably small, reflecting the strict penal conditions of the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The site was closed by the Ministry of Justice in 2013 following budget cuts and a shift toward newer, more efficient prison facilities.
The prison's nickname, 'The Dana', refers to the street and area where the facility is located.
Many interior features, such as the original iron doors and locking mechanisms, remain fully operational.
The prison has been used for professional television filming, including 'Time' and various documentaries.
Shrewsbury Prison is a decommissioned Victorian-era jail, originally constructed in 1793 and closed as a functioning facility in 2013. It now operates as an immersive tourist attraction and filming location. The site features original cell blocks, exercise yards, and the high-security segregation unit. Visitors can explore the prison through self-guided tours or specialized guided experiences led by former prison officers. The facility retains its austere architectural layout, including the original gatehouse and stone walls. It has served as a filming location for various television productions due to its preserved historical character. The site is located in the town of Shrewsbury, Shropshire, positioned on the site of a former medieval castle.
The main wings and the view looking down from the upper tiers of the prison landings.
Wear sturdy, comfortable footwear as the site involves walking across uneven surfaces and many stairs.
Bring a jacket, as the thick stone walls keep the interior significantly colder than the outside temperature year-round.
Check the official website for special events or night-time ghost tours if you prefer a different atmosphere than the standard daytime visit.
Do not attempt to explore unguided areas or restricted zones designated by signage, as the site remains a complex and industrial-era building.
Open daily throughout the year except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year's Day.
Respect the site's history, avoid touching fragile historical equipment, and refrain from loud behavior in cell block areas.
