We visited this museum on a whim as it was across the road from our hotel and I'm so pleased we did.
A fantastic museum looking into the history of how criminals were treated and punished in the very building itself.
Amazing staff, taking on roles such as Barrister, Prisoner or Hangman, all being incredibly informative both in and out of character, bringing history alive.
I'd definitely recommend timing your visit to be able to see the trial reenactment and public execution reenactment (no spoilers but it doesn't get gruesome, although you'll definitely know how the prisoners felt and will learn alot about how criminals were punished).
Considering we popped in on a whim, we spent over 3 hours here, left feeling informed, entertained and grateful for finding such a fantastic museum.
An absolute must if you like social history, what a fantastic insight into our local jails,prisons,courts,convicts and their crimes. The harsh reality of the times, re enacted by 3 very talented in character guides. A courtroom drama and a public hanging. Lots to see, all set out in such a way to draw you into the terrible world that convicts faced 2 to 3 hundred years ago. Allow at least 2 hours....there are lots of steps and small spaces, but for me that adds to the drama. There are lifts to all the different levels in the building, good accessible toilets and a cafe. Book on line, you get a time slot....helps to keep an even spread of visitors. I also booked to see the caves...you get a discount, and there only 200 yards away.
Went on a school trip with my daughters class, really enjoyed it.
The characters were excellent actor’s especially the Georgian jailer, very strict!
The kids loved the mock trail and the artefacts.
Recommend a visit
Opens at 10am weekends so don't get there early. This is a wonderful experience for those interested in Justice or working in the justice system. There are staff who act in character bringing things to life. We visited the execution, and it shone a light into the ancient legal system and how justice was served. It was a great experience all round.
This is a interesting and informative place to visit. It's a bit of a rabbit warren of rooms and corridors and, to be honest more signage would have been useful. Also if you have any mobility issues it could be a problem seeing all the museum. This museum is definitely worth a visit and I would 100% visit here again.
The ever funniest museum I have ever been, thanks the performers, they are professional and knowledgeable, luckily, with other humorous "volunteers" , the shows are fantastic, we spent a happy 3 hours throughout the visit.
Meanwhile, thank you all the reformers to improve the environment of the prisoners and seek for a more fair trial for all.
An absolutely lovely experience. All the actors are very funny, kind, and knowledgeable about the ins and outs of the Gaol and the Court of the past. Apart from the shows, they are around the exhibits to show you about and answer any questions. You can tell they are genuinely passionate about the topic and highly devoted to their respective roles, and can tell you all the details of the history and use of each room. I learned a lot and heard several interesting anecdotes. The museum itself is very well done, with lots of interactive exhibits and firsthand accounts that are sure to make it a memorable experience for adults and children alike. Take my word - have a visit! :)
Where to begin, ok the museum is engaging and interesting but the section of the prisoners work was emotional. We were lucky enough to speak to the ladies who were doing the exhibit and it was a serious eye opener and yet so sad. I got locked into several of the prisoners work and it really was emotional for me.
The history of forensics was great for learning how it all began.
There is a lovely little cafe with friendly staff
Now for the best part - there is several parts where the staff engage you in a ' hanging ' and a ' court scene ' the 2 members of staff get you involved using humour and sillyness but at the same time you were learning how the justice system worked back then.
This alone is a reason to visit the museum. I cannot recommend this place enough for all ages to visit
A gem of a museum! Such a fun interactive experience with the remarkably talented actors make sure you don't miss it! Exhibits are maintained and functional as well as educational.
Love, love, love. I've been a few times now but friends came with me from Bristol, joined in and they thoroughly enjoyed it. Give yourself time, I am mildly crippled due to injury so can't walk much. There are a fair few steps, but it was worth it. Couple of spaces to sit for a rest, lovely little cafe. Value for money, lovely presented information, informative staff who clearly enjoy their job. I will be back.
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