Shrewsbury is a town that offers more than just its medieval streets and Tudor buildings. For travelers craving unique tours and experiences, Shrewsbury delivers with options that satisfy a wide range of interests. Whether you’re fascinated by history, drawn to spooky stories, or just want to try something fun and active, this town has it all. We’re particularly fans of the Shrewsbury Prison Guided Tour for its engaging storytelling, and the Ghost Tour for a spooky twist on this historic site. The prison’s blend of history and ghost stories makes it a compelling stop, especially if you enjoy a little thrill with your learning. For those wanting a more interactive experience, the Axe Throwing Experience offers a lively change of pace, perfect for friends or family.
If you’re wondering what kind of tours and experiences make the list, we’ve looked at a variety—from guided historical walks to self-guided exploration, and even ghostly adventures. Each offers something different—whether it’s the chance to learn about prison life from a knowledgeable officer or test your aim with a fun, competitive activity. Now, let’s explore each one in detail so you can find the perfect fit for your trip.
1. Shrewsbury Prison Guided Tour and Museum Access
At number 1, the Shrewsbury Prison Guided Tour and Museum Access combines history and storytelling in a way that appeals to visitors who want an immersive experience. For around 1.5 hours, you’ll explore the historic prison with a guide, often a prison officer, who shares insights into what life was like for prisoners, officers, and visitors. This tour isn’t just about walking through old cells; it’s about understanding the broader story of crime and punishment from the Georgian era to modern day. The tour guide’s passion shines through, making history come alive.
One of the standout features is the self-guided tour included in the ticket, allowing you to take your time exploring the museum and the prison grounds after the guided segment. Reviewers frequently mention the engaging guides, with Charlotte and Graham standing out for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge. The tour’s warmth and authenticity appeal to history buffs and casual visitors alike. Be prepared for the cold walls, as the thick stone makes it surprisingly chilly.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a fascinating, guided look at penal history, enhanced by personal stories and interactive museum access. It’s highly recommended for history enthusiasts or anyone interested in the evolution of the justice system.
2. Shrewsbury Prison: Entry Ticket
For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, the Shrewsbury Prison: Entry Ticket offers a flexible way to explore the site. Valid for one full day, this ticket gives you unlimited access to both indoor and outdoor parts of the Victorian prison, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and take ‘CELLfies’ (selfies in the cells). It’s ideal for visitors interested in a hands-on experience, viewing the prison’s history from the Georgian era onward.
What makes this option stand out is the size of the venue. With extensive indoor and outdoor spaces, visitors of all ages can explore freely, making it perfect for families or groups that want to linger and take photographs. While there are no guided components advertised, the self-guided approach enables a more personal experience—more time to read exhibits or imagine life behind bars. The lively environment and historic architecture make it an engaging visit that feels less like a tour and more like stepping into history.
Bottom Line: This ticket provides the freedom to explore the prison at your own pace, suitable for visitors who love history but prefer to set their own schedule.
3. Shrewsbury Prison Ghost Tour
The Shrewsbury Prison Ghost Tour adds a spooky twist to your visit, especially in the evening. For 1.5 hours, you’ll explore the prison at night, learning about its haunted reputation and hearing ghost stories linked to the site. This tour is the only one offering exclusive access to the Georgian tunnels below, which adds an element of adventure and mystery. The guide, Charlotte, shares real ghost encounters, making the experience both chilling and fascinating.
Participants are encouraged to brave a 5-minute stint in a pitch-black cell, testing their nerve against the supernatural stories. Reviewers mention the guide’s extensive knowledge and the eerie atmosphere as highlights. The combination of history and ghost lore makes this tour particularly compelling for fans of paranormal activity or those curious about the darker side of Shrewsbury’s history.
Bottom Line: If you enjoy ghost stories and haunted locations, this tour offers a thrilling look behind the walls at night, with special access to hidden tunnels and a chance to experience the prison’s spooky reputation firsthand.
4. Shrewsbury: Axe Throwing Experience with 18 Games
For a lively, active experience, the Axe Throwing Experience with 18 games is hard to beat. Priced at around $41 per person, this hour-long activity is hosted by WATL-certified instructors, ensuring safety while maximizing fun. You’ll learn proper axe-throwing technique and then compete in a variety of interactive games, all using state-of-the-art ChampThrow technology.
What makes this activity stand out is the mix of skill-building and friendly competition. It’s suitable for groups of friends, families, or even corporate outings. The smartphone-connected app adds a modern twist, letting you track your scores and enjoy the game even more. The environment is designed for safety, with a strict no-axe-hole policy and professional supervision.
While this activity isn’t a history tour, it offers a memorable, energetic break from traditional sightseeing. Reviewers mention the excitement and camaraderie, making it clear that this experience is both fun and well-organized.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a fun, active outing with friends or family, this axe throwing experience delivers laughs and competition in a safe, controlled setting.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Shrewsbury
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If history and storytelling are your priorities, the guided prison tour is a top pick. For more flexibility, the self-guided entry gives you freedom to explore on your own. Ghost enthusiasts will find the nighttime ghost tour a thrilling way to experience the prison from a different perspective. And for those wanting a break from history, the axe throwing provides a fun, hands-on activity.
Booking early is wise, especially for the guided tours and the ghost experience, as they tend to fill quickly. Check availability and times in advance, and consider combining options if your schedule allows—perhaps a guided tour followed by some free exploration or a lively activity afterward.
Shrewsbury’s variety of tours and experiences makes it a great destination for all types of travelers. History lovers will appreciate the detailed tours of the historic prison, while thrill-seekers and families can enjoy the ghost stories or the axe-throwing fun. Whatever your preference, planning ahead and booking early will ensure you make the most of your visit. So, pick your adventure, and get ready to explore Shrewsbury’s intriguing past and lively present.