Stories

Gaols and Lock-Ups in Neath

Martyn J. Griffiths, from the Neath Antiquarian Society, tells us more about the gaols and lock-ups in Neath, between the 14th and the 20th century. The earliest goal in Neath was probably inside the castle.  The castle had fallen into…

Halliwell Lock-Up

On hearing our call for help to fill our Local Lock-ups Database , Margaret Koppens, secretary of the Halliwell Local History Society, Bolton, got in touch to tell us about her local lock-up… A recent edition of the quarterly magazine…

Tynemouth House of Correction

As Newcastle City Guides, Keiran-Ann Keilty and Susan Lynn regularly undertake research for their walking tours. This is their research into the Tynemouth House of Correction. The Tynemouth Correction House and Justice Room is a rare example of a court…

Lincoln Castle Prison

Kelvin Pickford, volunteer at Lincoln Castle, shares some of his favourite vistas of Lincoln Prison on a sunny, Spring afternoon. Lincoln Castle was used as a gaol from early times. In 1788, a county gaol was constructed in the Castle…

Cranford’s Village Lock-up

Paige Chaplin from Heritage of London Trust, reveals the story behind the restoration of a rare historical monument in 21st century London. Cranford’s village lock-up housed many criminals before the area gained a police force. Located just off the old…

Phrases and sayings – from Prison History Part 2

Thanks to local historian and regular Prison History contributor, Rob Keep, we have some more phrases and sayings from prison history to share: 1. Go West Tyburn was west of Newgate Prison, and prisoners taking the journey to the gallows…

Phrases and sayings – from prison history

Ever wondered where the phrases and sayings we use in everyday conversation come from? Well, at least some have their origins in prison history! Andy Griffin treats us to a description of a few – can you think of any…

Prisoners at Horsemonger Lane Gaol

A scandalous affair! Local historian and author, Chris Hicks, tells us about some of the earliest prisoners at Horsemonger Lane Gaol. One early occupant of Horsemonger Lane Gaol was one Richard Vining Perry together with his pregnant wife and her…

Kirkdale House of Correction

Local historian, Rob Keep, tells us some interesting facts about the the Kirkdale House of Correction. This House of Correction was built in conjunction as many were, with a Sessions House, which opened in 1821, and where the Quarter Sessions…

Wymondham Heritage Museum

Neil Haverson, one of the curators at the Wymondham Heritage Museum, tells us the fascinating history of this former county Bridewell and police station. The first Bridewell in the market town of Wymondham, dates from 1619 when the basement of…