Dartmoor Prison Museum

Dog-friendly

“Do not pass go - go directly to jail !” this is a great visitor attraction that provides a unique insight into prison life.

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Opening Times

Mon - Thurs	09.30 - 16.30
Fri & Sun	09.30 - 16.00
Sat	09.30 - 16.30

Closed during the Winter

Accessibility

Dog Friendly

Accessible

Accessibility Information

Disabled and Wheelchair Access - The Museum is accessed via a ramp to the front door but some exhibits require the use of stairs. Unfortunately we do not have a lift so these may be inaccessible to some visitors.

“Do not pass go – go directly to jail !”

For a £4 entrance fee this is a great visitor attraction at such a low price.

Unlock the history of one of England’s most famous prisons, Dartmoor Prison Museum reflects the heritage of HMP Dartmoor from Prisoner of War Depot to the present day. The interesting collection of artefacts provides a unique insight into prison life both past and present.

The Museum is located yards from the iconic Dartmoor Prison itself that is set in the wilds of Dartmoor. Step back in time and experience 200 years of prison history from its opening in 1809, taking in French prisoners from the Napoleonic Wars followed by American prisoners from the War of 1812. The Prison re-opened as a convict prison in 1850 and hosted Conscientious Objectors during the First World War. The prison is still in use today it is currently Britain’s oldest operational prison.

Visitors can learn about how the Prison came into existence and the types of prisoners the prison currently houses – it may not be all you believe!

The Museum shop is well stocked with souvenirs, books and uniquely items made in the prison by prisoners themselves.

No visit to the Museum is complete without also visiting the Church, located about 500 yards from the Museum building. This was built by French and American prisoners of war and the churchyard contains the graves of prisoners from 1902 who died at the prison.

Whilst there is no onsite catering at the Museum itself, Princetown boasts three cafes and currently one public house.

*** NO PHOTOGRAPHY ALLOWED INSIDE THE MUSEUM ***

Dogs welcome in museum if well behaved and on a lead.

Last admissions to the Museum 30 minutes before closing.

Location

Dartmoor Prison Museum

Address

Princetown, Yelverton PL20 6RR, UK

What3Words ///squirts.cornfield.schooling

01822 322130

www.dartmoor-prison.co.uk

Driving from our parks

Tamar View: 13.46 miles / 31 mins
Notter Bridge: 20.52 miles / 40 mins

Rating

★★★★☆4.3

Based on 1,000 reviews

Info correct at time of publish: April 10, 2026. Always check with location before visiting.

Reviews

Mrs B

4 months ago

This is a brilliant museum with knowledgeable and friendly staff. It's just up the road from Dartmoor prison and has lots of information about the history of the prison. There are items made by prisoners in years gone by. They also have on show items confiscated during cell searches which is really interesting.
If you're lucky there might still be some concrete ornaments to buy. These were made and painted by prisoners, up to when the prison was temporarily closed due to radon levels in 2024.

Anna Bolton

5 months ago

Interesting. Good views of the prison too. When you see the contraband it makes you think too. Some great craft stuff too ie matchbox makes and origami models

Abi Stevens

9 months ago

A great insight into part of the prison life, a great display of items and costumes. There was a fantastic display of prisoners work.
There was a lower section but requires stairs to access.
There was a small selection of items to purchase.
Car park was adequate, card only no cash.
It was relatively busy when we arrived but they said it often is when it's raining.
Photo also shows the entrance as SatNav may not be accurate

Dennis Bauszus

9 months ago

The collection may not be huge but is very interesting. We learned a lot and most of all enjoyed that dogs are allowed in the museum.

Rob Duhig

a year ago

Situated in the old prison dairy, this is one of the most reasonably priced museums you will find. 2024 prices was £4 (£3 concessions). Some great history to read about, exhibits of the past and present and an extremely reasonably priced gift shop including some artwork from current prisoners.
The staff all work or worked in the prison and are willing to talk to you about the prison, their jobs and the area. A fantastic time can be had by all.