About Ripon Prison & Police Museum

Discover Crime and Punishment in Victorian Yorkshire

Step Back in Time

Have you ever wondered what punishment was like in Victorian times? Step back in time and enjoy a rare and immersive experience exploring the darker side of Victorian life at the Ripon Prison & Police Museum.

A Unique Historical Experience

Explore the harsh and cruel punishments handed out to petty criminals. Hear the cell door slam shut, turn the crank, and have your fingerprints taken. Step into a Victorian prison cell—just make sure you can get out! Learn about the individuals who inhabited the cells and listen to their stories before exploring the history of policing in Yorkshire.

Engaging Activities for All

There are fascinating collections to see, engaging activities to enjoy, and a wealth of history to learn.

Ripon Museums

Housed in the former Ripon Liberty Prison, which later became the Ripon Police Station, the museum is part of a trio of Ripon Museums. Our three historic sites trace the journey from poverty to crime and punishment, helping visitors understand the impact of this history on our lives today and exploring ways to create a fairer society. From England's most complete workhouse to the cells of the prison and the dock of the courthouse, the Ripon Museums offer a full day out with lots of hands-on activities.

When can you visit?
We are open 7 days a week.
Our Prison & Police Museums and Workhouse & Gardens are open from 10am to 4pm. The Courthouse Museum is open from 1pm to 4pm.

Explore all three museums with additional activities and events running across school holiday and seasonal community exhibitions and workshops throughout the year.

Tickets

Our tickets are valid for 12 months with unlimited return visits. Children 5 and under are free.

Adult: £19.00

Child: £10.50

Concession: £18.00

Family & Friends: £38.00 (2 adults and 3 children)

Small Family: £28.00 (1 adult and 1 child)

National Trust members receive a 25% discount at all three Ripon Museums

Opening hours

  1. Monday

    10:00 - 4:00

  2. Tuesday

    10:00 - 4:00

  3. Wednesday

    10:00 - 4:00

  4. Thursday

    10:00 - 4:00

  5. Friday

    10:00 - 4:00

  6. Saturday

    10:00 - 4:00

  7. Sunday

    10:00 - 4:00

Nearby businesses

Ripon Parking general

Long Stay car parks for Ripon town centre.  The Cathedral car park with…

Webb 513820601
Ripon - Heart

Webb & Webb

Established in 2014, we're a family run independent shop based opposite…

Golden Lion 305845707 Medium
Ripon

Golden Lion

We are a small pub just of the city centre. We offer a good selection of…

Wilfrid 692350266
Ripon - Heart

Wilfrid's Café

Friendly relaxed Licensed Cafe close to the Cathedral,serving tasty home…

You May Also Like

Stay up to date

Signup to receive news, offers and inspiration for your next visit

View across Nidderdale - trees, fields, drystone walls and blue sky