Description
Dartmoor Prison has a long and fascinating history that has seen many changes in its fortunes. But it is also at the cutting edge of modern penal practice, developing ways to help offenders change their lives and to protect the public.
HMP Dartmoor is part of one of the world's most successful and respected prison systems. I think it will surprise you and I hope you will take the opportunity to find out more about this hidden but uniquely interesting world and to think hard about the serious issues of crime, punishment and rehabilitation.
Unique Insight into Prison Life
Unlocking 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.
Of interest to all ages and groups, Dartmoor Prison Museum is located in the old dairy buildings with parking available. Coaches welcome by appointment.
History of Dartmoor Prison
In 1805, Great Britain was at war with Napoleonic France; a conflict during which thousands of prisoners were taken and confined in prison “hulks” or derelict ships. This was considered unsafe, partially due to the proximity of the Royal Naval dockyard at Plymouth and as living conditions were appalling in the extreme, a prisoner of war depot was planned in the remote isolation of Dartmoor.
In 1806 construction started, taking three years to complete.
In 1809 the first French prisoners arrived and were joined by American POWs taken in the war of 1812. At one time the prison population numbered almost 6,000. Many prisoners died and were buried on the moor. Both French and American wars were concluded in 1815 and repatriations began.
The prison then lay empty until 1850, when it was largely rebuilt and commissioned as a convict gaol.
With the establishment of the prison farm in about 1852, all the prisoners remains were exhumed and re-interred in two cemeteries behind the prison.
Dartmoor Prison, reckoned in Victorian times to be the hardest and most severe in England, has been in constant use from 1850 to the present day.
In 1917 all convicts were withdrawn from Dartmoor, which was then used to confine 1100 conscientious objectors who refused military service.
Until recently, Dartmoor Prison's inmates have been some of the most dangerous and notorious in English penal history.
Dartmoor Prison Museum Opening Times
Opening Times
Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs and Sat 9.30 to 12.30 and 13.30 to 16.30
Fri and Sun 9.30 to 12.30 and 13:30 to 16.00
Last Admissions 45 minutes before closing
OPEN ALL YEAR DOGS WELCOME
Opening times may change depending on staff availability - please ring before travelling if you are coming a long way.
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