York Castle prison cells unlocked for exhibition

The cells of York Castle Museum are being unlocked this summer to allow visitors to spend a day where others spent a lifetime. York Castle Prison is the new experience at the museum which will transport visitors back to the time when the building was home to the county’s worst criminals, including the infamous highwayman Dick Turpin. Turpin was an attraction for many locals who paid good money to see the notorious criminal behind bars.

Mike Woodward, director of business development at the museum, says the £200,000 refurbishment of the gaol will allow visitors an incredible insight into the life of the inmates: “Many of the authentic cells still remain here at the Castle and for the first time we will be using these to take an in depth look at this building’s fascinating history.” The latest audio-visual technology will offer an authentic experience and allow visitors to meet characters, including Turpin and his gaoler. www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk