This Father’s Day weekend, Shepton Mallet Prison is offering a rare and memorable gift: free entry for dads. The historic 17th-century former prison, closed in 2013 and now one of Britain’s top tourist destinations, invites fathers to explore its fascinating past with a complimentary self-guided tour ticket.
Available on Saturday, June 14, and Sunday, June 15, this special Father’s Day offer grants dads free access when accompanied by a paying adult or child. However, it’s a limited opportunity with just 50 tickets available on a first-come, first-served basis—so early booking is essential.
Beyond Father’s Day, Shepton Mallet Prison has a vibrant summer program. On Monday, August 25, visitors can experience a ‘living history’ event that brings four centuries of the prison’s past to life. Attendees will meet costumed characters representing prisoners from the Stuart era to American soldiers imprisoned during WWII, with hands-on activities such as trying out the stocks.
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For those seeking thrills, the ‘Night Behind Bars’ overnight experience allows guests to spend a night in an authentic prison cell. Scheduled for Friday, June 6, this eerie adventure, set amidst tales of hauntings, must be booked in advance.
The prison’s future has been secured under new ownership by Cove Attractions as of earlier this year. CEO Joel Campbell expressed pride in preserving this iconic site: “Securing the future of Shepton Mallet Prison has taken over a decade of resilience, negotiations, and perseverance. Today marks the beginning of its exciting next chapter. Our team is committed to investing in this irreplaceable piece of British history and enhancing its appeal for visitors, historians, and future generations alike.”
Tickets can be booked through the Shepton Mallet Prison website. To redeem the Father’s Day free ticket for dads, use the code Father25 at checkout when purchasing another adult or child ticket.
Shepton Mallet Prison welcomes visitors daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.