Shepton Mallet Prison - Living History Day
Experience 400 Years of Crime & Punishment
In 2025, join us on every Bank Holiday as we bring history to life, commemorating 400 years since our doors first opened in 1625.
Step Back In Time
Our Living History Days will transport you through the harsh realities of crime and punishment, from the Jacobean era to modern times. Here’s what to expect:
- Meet Costumed Characters: Encounter actors in full character, portraying former prisoners and sharing their daily struggles.
- Experience Prison Life: What crimes were committed? What punishments were given? Discover the grim realities of incarceration.
- Survive the Conditions: Learn about prison food, sanitation, disease and the brutal life behind bars.
- Engage in Hands-On Activities: Try your hand at oakum picking, step into the pillories and uncover chilling tales of execution.
- Explore WWII History: Discover the U.S. occupation of the prison and its impact.
- Uncover Secrets: Listen as Mrs. Johnson reveals ‘the secret hoard’ and other forgotten stories.
Do you want to uncover what it took to survive prison life through the centuries? Join us every Bank Holiday in 2025 and find out!
Dates:
- Monday 5th May 2025
- Monday 26th May 2025
- Monday 25th August 2025
Ticket options
Experience 400 Years of Crime & Punishment
In 2025, join us on every Bank Holiday as we bring history to life, commemorating 400 years since our doors first opened in 1625.
Step Back In Time
Our Living History Days will transport you through the harsh realities of crime and punishment, from the Jacobean era to modern times. Here’s what to expect:
- Meet Costumed Characters: Encounter actors in full character, portraying former prisoners and sharing their daily struggles.
- Experience Prison Life: What crimes were committed? What punishments were given? Discover the grim realities of incarceration.
- Survive the Conditions: Learn about prison food, sanitation, disease and the brutal life behind bars.
- Engage in Hands-On Activities: Try your hand at oakum picking, step into the pillories and uncover chilling tales of execution.
- Explore WWII History: Discover the U.S. occupation of the prison and its impact.
- Uncover Secrets: Listen as Mrs. Johnson reveals ‘the secret hoard’ and other forgotten stories.
Do you want to uncover what it took to survive prison life through the centuries? Join us every Bank Holiday in 2025 and find out!
Dates:
- Monday 5th May 2025
- Monday 26th May 2025
- Monday 25th August 2025
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