Shrewsbury is a town with a mix of medieval charm and modern surprises, making it an excellent place for unique tours. Its historic prison stands out as a must-visit, offering a glimpse into the past with guided insights and hands-on exploration. We particularly like tours that combine history with a bit of thrill, like the Shrewsbury Prison Ghost Tour, which adds a spooky edge to a historic site. Whether you’re into history, ghost stories, or just looking for something different, Shrewsbury’s tour options won’t disappoint.
Some of the best experiences include guided walks led by knowledgeable prison officers, self-guided visits to Victorian-era cells, and haunting night tours that reveal a different side of the town’s history. For a lighter, more active outing, axe throwing adds a burst of adrenaline and fun, perfect for groups or anyone wanting to try something new. To help you choose, below is a quick overview of the top four tours, each with its own unique flavor.
1. Shrewsbury Prison Guided Tour and Museum Access
If you want a deep dive into prison life, this guided tour is your best bet. Led by a prison officer, it lasts about 1.5 hours and offers an up-close look at Shrewsbury Prison’s history from the Georgian era to today. The tour includes a detailed explanation of the prison’s operation, stories from staff and inmates, and the chance to see the cell blocks and historical artifacts.
What makes this tour stand out is the personality of the guides. Reviewers rave about Graham and Charlotte, highlighting their passion and knowledge. Graham, in particular, is praised for making the history engaging and thought-provoking. The self-guided museum access allows you to explore further at your own pace, which is perfect if you want to linger inside. The tour is suitable for history enthusiasts and families alike, especially those interested in the evolution of the penal system.
The bottom line: This highly-rated, informative tour offers a balanced mix of guided storytelling and personal exploration, making it a great choice for first-time visitors and history buffs.
2. Shrewsbury Prison: Entry Ticket
Looking for a flexible way to explore Shrewsbury’s Victorian prison? The Entry Ticket allows you to visit at your leisure any time within a full day, soaking in the atmosphere without a strict schedule. This ticket grants access to the entire prison grounds — indoors and outdoors — so you can wander through the cells, walk the yard, and imagine what life was like for inmates during the Victorian period.
This experience is perfect for those who prefer self-directed exploration or families who want to tour at their own pace. The indoor and outdoor setup makes it suitable for all weather, and the vast venue promises plenty to see and do. Kids and adults alike can enjoy taking “CELLfies” and learning about the prison’s history from Georgian times to today.
The main advantage of this ticket is the freedom to explore, which is ideal if you like to set your own pace or combine the visit with other activities. However, it doesn’t include a guided component, so it’s best if you’re comfortable self-guiding or reading on your own.
Bottom Line: For those wanting to explore a real Victorian prison at their own pace, this flexible ticket offers an engaging and hassle-free experience.
3. Shrewsbury Prison Ghost Tour
If you’re after something spooky, the Shrewsbury Prison Ghost Tour is the perfect ticket. This 1.5-hour night adventure takes you behind the high prison walls to uncover ghost stories and paranormal tales. Led by guides with detailed knowledge, you’ll explore the georgian tunnels, which are the only access at night, and hear about real ghost encounters from previous visitors.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of history and hauntings. You’ll learn about some of the prison’s most famous ghost stories, hear eerie tales, and even get a 5-minute experience inside a dark, closed cell. The tour is designed to be exciting but not overly frightening, making it suitable for brave teens and adults.
Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to roam freely in some areas. The night setting with total darkness inside the cells adds a layer of authenticity and thrill you can’t get during a daytime visit. If you’re interested in paranormal activity and enjoy a bit of adrenaline, this tour offers something genuinely different.
Bottom line: A fun, chilling experience that combines history with ghost stories, perfect for those who want a spooky twist on their visit.
4. Shrewsbury: Axe Throwing Experience with 18 Games
For something completely different, the Axe Throwing Experience is a lively activity that blends skill with fun. Lasting about an hour, this experience is led by WATL-certified instructors who teach you how to throw axes safely and accurately. The highlight is the 18 interactive games that use ChampThrow technology, making it a competitive and entertaining session.
This activity is ideal for groups, families, or anyone wanting to try something new and active. You’ll learn techniques to hit targets like a pro, and the friendly atmosphere encourages everyone to get involved. The venue maintains strict safety rules, including a no-axe-hole policy, so you can focus on the fun without worries. Plus, connecting your smartphone to the app makes tracking scores easy and adds to the enjoyment.
While this experience doesn’t include a detailed historical narrative, it offers a physical and social challenge that’s perfect for a short break from more conventional sightseeing. The price is around $41 per person, making it an affordable and memorable activity.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a fun, active outing with friends or family, the axe-throwing experience is a safe bet for a good laugh and some friendly competition.
How to Choose
Picking between these tours depends on your interests, pace, and how much you want to spend. For history lovers, the Shrewsbury Prison Guided Tour offers in-depth stories and insights, especially if you’re keen on understanding the evolution of the penal system. If you prefer a flexible, self-paced experience, the Entry Ticket is perfect, allowing you to wander the prison grounds at your leisure.
For those drawn to spooky stories and paranormal thrillers, the Ghost Tour provides a night-time adventure with exclusive access to tunnels and haunted cells. Meanwhile, if you’re in the mood for something energetic and different, the Axe Throwing Experience offers a lively challenge that’s equally fun for groups or solo travelers wanting a break from traditional sightseeing.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and personal interests. Booking early is advisable, especially for tours with limited availability or evening slots.
Final Thoughts
Shrewsbury offers a surprising range of tours that suit different interests — from detailed historical walks to ghostly encounters and active pursuits. The guided prison tour stands out for its rich storytelling, while the ghost tour adds an adrenaline rush for night owls. For a more active and social experience, axe throwing is a lively choice.
Whether you’re a history buff eager to explore the past, a thrill-seeker craving spooky stories, or just looking for a fun activity to break up your day, these tours give you a memorable taste of Shrewsbury. Planning ahead and booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these top experiences. Enjoy your visit!
