Tolhouse Gaol

Tolhouse Gaol is a prison museum housed in a three-story stone structure in Great Yarmouth with thick walls and barred windows. The rooms display cells, interrogation chambers, and corridors that give you a direct sense of how inmates were confined here.

The building was constructed in the 17th century and served Great Yarmouth as a place for holding prisoners and carrying out punishment. Over the centuries, methods of prisoner treatment changed, which is reflected in the displays.

The building tells the story of prison life through original cells and personal belongings of inmates from different eras. You can sense the connection between the people who lived here and their past.

The museum is centrally located in Great Yarmouth and easy to reach on foot. The rooms are accessed via stairs across multiple floors, so you should be prepared for climbing.

The building still preserves visible scratches and marks on the walls left by inmates over the years. These small details offer a personal glimpse into the monotony and daily routines of captivity.

Location: Great Yarmouth

Location: Great Yarmouth

Accessibility: Wheelchair limited access

Part of: Norfolk Museums

Address: Tolhouse Street, Great Yarmouth NR30 2SQ

Website: https://museums.norfolk.gov.uk/tolhouse-gaol

GPS coordinates: 52.60430,1.72755

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:45