The Great Yorkshire Day Out

Prison and Police Museum Printable Guide

Prison and Police Museum Printable Guide

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Ripon Prison and Police Museum Visitor Guide

Overview

The Ripon Prison and Police Museum offers a fascinating journey through the history of law enforcement, crime, and punishment in Ripon and beyond. Housed in the former Ripon Liberty Prison and adjacent courthouse, this museum showcases the evolution of policing, prison life, and the justice system over the past centuries. Whether you’re interested in crime history, vintage policing artifacts, or the harsh realities of life behind bars, there’s something here for everyone.

Location & Contact Information

  • Address: St Marygate, Ripon, North Yorkshire, HG4 1LX

  • Phone: +44 (0)1765 690799

  • Website: Ripon Museums

Opening Hours

  • April to October: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Tuesday to Sunday)

  • November to March: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Tuesday to Saturday)

  • Closed: Christmas, New Year, and some public holidays.

Tip: Check the website or call ahead for the latest opening times, as they may vary for special events.

Ticket Information

  • Adult: £9.50

  • Concessions (students and seniors): £8.50

  • Child (under 16): £6.50

  • Family (2 adults + up to 3 children): £25.00

  • Under 5s: Free

  • Group bookings: Discounts available for groups of 10 or more. Call in advance to arrange.

Tip: Your ticket includes entry to all three Ripon Museums (Prison & Police Museum, Workhouse Museum, and Courthouse Museum) and is valid for 12 months.

Highlights of the Museum

1. The Liberty Prison Cells

  • Experience Life as a Prisoner: Enter the cells that once housed petty criminals, debtors, and those awaiting trial. Some cells remain as they were in the 1800s, giving a chillingly authentic feel.

  • Discover the Stories: Read about former prisoners, from thieves and pickpockets to those who fell afoul of Victorian morality laws. Learn about their offenses and punishments through interactive exhibits.

2. Victorian Police Station

  • Explore the Police Uniforms: See how police attire has evolved over the years, from early uniforms to modern gear.

  • Try On the Uniform: Step into the shoes of a Victorian constable by trying on replicas of uniforms and helmets.

  • Learn About the Early Police Force: Discover how the police worked in the early days, including how officers operated without modern technology.

3. Crime and Punishment Through the Ages

  • Punishment Devices: Examine historical punishment tools, from the brutal stocks and pillories to the cat-o'-nine-tails whip. Learn about how these methods were used to deter crime.

  • History of Policing: Trace the development of law enforcement in Ripon, from the early parish constables to the establishment of a formal police force in the 19th century.

4. Interactive Exhibits

  • Mug Shot Experience: Take your own 'mug shot' and compare it with those from the museum's archives.

  • Fingerprinting: Learn about early forensic techniques and take your own fingerprints as a souvenir.

5. The Prison Kitchen and Exercise Yard

  • Kitchen: Discover what prisoners ate and how their meals were prepared. Find out about the differences between the diets of male and female prisoners.

  • Exercise Yard: Step into the open-air exercise yard and imagine what it felt like for prisoners who were allowed only a brief time outside each day.

Events & Activities

  • Guided Tours: Knowledgeable volunteers provide guided tours, offering detailed insights into the history and stories behind the exhibits.

  • Family Activities: During school holidays, the museum hosts family-friendly events, including crafts, historical reenactments, and detective trails.

  • Special Exhibitions: Throughout the year, the museum features rotating exhibits on various topics related to crime, policing, and punishment.

Tip: Check the website for the latest schedule of events, as there’s always something new happening at the museum.

Accessibility

  • Wheelchair Access: The museum is partially accessible, with some limitations due to the historic nature of the building. There are ramps and stairlifts available, but some areas, such as the cells, may be difficult to access.

  • Toilets: Accessible toilets are available on-site.

  • Guide Dogs: Assistance dogs are welcome throughout the museum.

For more details on accessibility, contact the museum in advance.

Visitor Tips

  • Allow Enough Time: Plan to spend at least 1-2 hours exploring the museum to make the most of your visit.

  • Combine Your Visit: Your ticket is valid for all three Ripon Museums, so take advantage and visit the Workhouse Museum and Courthouse Museum nearby.

  • Photography: Feel free to take photos, but avoid using flash in certain exhibits where it is prohibited.

Getting There

  • By Car: Follow the A61 to Ripon and use the city’s car parks, as there is no dedicated parking at the museum.

  • By Bus: Regular bus services run to Ripon from nearby cities such as Harrogate, Leeds, and York.

  • By Train: The nearest train station is Harrogate, with bus connections available from the station to Ripon.

Nearby Attractions

  • Ripon Cathedral: A stunning historic cathedral located just a short walk away.

  • Fountains Abbey & Studley Royal Water Garden: A UNESCO World Heritage Site just a 10-minute drive from Ripon.

  • Ripon Workhouse Museum: Another part of Ripon's museum experience, offering insights into the lives of the Victorian poor.

Gift Shop

Before you leave, make sure to stop by the museum's gift shop, where you can purchase unique souvenirs, books, and toys related to crime, punishment, and policing history.

Support the Museum

The Ripon Prison and Police Museum is a registered charity, and its continued operation depends on visitor support. Consider making a donation, joining as a member, or volunteering your time.

Enjoy your visit to the Ripon Prison and Police Museum, and take a step back in time to discover the fascinating history of crime and punishment in North Yorkshire!