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The Clink Prison Museum
The Clink Prison Museum
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About
The Clink Prison Museum is located on the original site of one of England's most notorious prisons, The Clink, which operated from the 12th to the 18th century. This small but fascinating museum gives visitors an immersive experience into the grim history of medieval crime, punishment, and life behind bars in London
Insider Tips
The museum offers a deep dive into the darker side of London’s history. You’ll learn about medieval punishment, the harsh conditions prisoners endured, and the history of The Clink, one of London’s oldest prisons. The museum features hands-on exhibits where you can try on shackles, feel torture devices, and explore recreated prison cells. These interactive elements make the visit more engaging, especially for kids and families
It might not be the ideal museum for younger kids sensitive to scary sights. Keep in mind that the museum aims to recreate the atmosphere of a historical prison, including depictions of torture devices and lots of bloodied mannequins!
Did you know?
The term “Clink” has become a slang word for prison thanks to this very location! The Clink Prison was so infamous during its operational years that its name became synonymous with imprisonment itself, leading to the phrase "thrown in the clink!"