Shrewsbury is a town that rewards curiosity with its blend of history, mystery, and a touch of adrenaline. It’s not just about wandering cobbled streets or admiring medieval buildings; the town offers experiences that explore its past and present, making it a great destination for those who enjoy immersive tours. We particularly like the Shrewsbury Prison Guided Tour for its engaging storytelling and the chance to explore a real Georgian-era jail. We also recommend the Shrewsbury Prison Ghost Tour if you’re intrigued by ghost stories or haunted history. For something a little more active, the Axe Throwing Experience offers a fun, modern twist to your visit. Each of these options provides a different taste of Shrewsbury—whether you’re a history lover, thrill-seeker, or simply out for a unique day.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we cover four top-rated tours that highlight different facets of Shrewsbury. From stepping inside a historic Victorian prison with Shrewsbury Prison Guided Tour and Museum Access to testing your nerve on a Ghost Tour, each offers distinct experiences. For a more playful side, the Axe Throwing Experience provides a lively, interactive activity. Below, we detail each tour to help you decide which fits your interests and travel style.
1. Shrewsbury Prison Guided Tour and Museum Access
At number 1, this guided tour offers a deep dive into the prison’s history, led by a prison officer with a wealth of knowledge. During the 1.5-hour experience, you’ll walk through the Georgian and Victorian-era cells, learning about life behind bars for prisoners, officers, and visitors. What makes this tour stand out is the combination of an engaging guide — often praised for their passion and storytelling ability — and the inclusion of a self-guided exploration after the tour. This gives you a chance to revisit areas and take photos at your own pace.
The reviews emphasize the tour’s informative nature and personal touch, with visitors highlighting guides like Graham and Charlotte for their enthusiasm and knowledge. One reviewer notes, “Charlotte made the history of the penal system very interesting,” while another mentions the importance of warm clothing because of the prison’s stone walls. The overall rating of 4.8/5 from 28 reviews shows how well this experience resonates.
This tour is perfect if you’re interested in history, heritage, or the reform of the prison system. The interactivity and detailed storytelling bring the prison’s past to life. The only potential downside is that it’s a relatively short tour—so if you’re after a longer experience, consider the day-pass option below.
Bottom Line: An engaging, well-reviewed tour that combines guided storytelling with self-guided exploration—ideal for history buffs and curious visitors alike.
2. Shrewsbury Prison: Entry Ticket
For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, the Shrewsbury Prison Entry Ticket provides unlimited access for a full day. This option is great for visitors who want to soak up the atmosphere, take photos, and revisit sections—or just wander around without a fixed schedule. You’ll get a chance to explore the entire Victorian prison, both indoor and outdoor areas, making it suitable for all ages.
This ticket gives you a broad overview of the prison’s history from the Georgian era through to modern times. The vast venue allows for spontaneous discovery, whether you’re peering into cells, walking the yard, or checking out exhibits. It’s a flexible option, especially for families or groups who want to blend sightseeing with casual exploration.
While this is not a guided tour, it appeals to visitors who enjoy self-led adventures and want to linger longer. Plus, it’s a cost-effective way to experience the prison without the time constraints of a guided visit.
Bottom Line: Perfect for independent explorers who want full access to the prison’s grounds and history, with the freedom to set their own pace.
3. Shrewsbury Prison Ghost Tour
If you’re partial to spooky stories and a touch of the supernatural, the Shrewsbury Prison Ghost Tour is a must. Running for 1.5 hours, this evening tour takes you behind the high walls into the dark, with a guide sharing tales of ghost encounters and strange phenomena linked to the prison’s long history. Visiting at night amplifies the eerie atmosphere, and the tour includes a rare look at the Georgian tunnels below the prison—an exclusive feature.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of history and ghost stories, creating a spine-tingling experience. The guide’s storytelling skills have earned high praise, with reviews noting the tour’s “very interesting” and “highly recommended.” Visitors are also invited to spend five minutes in a closed cell with the lights off, adding a layer of thrill for brave souls.
The tour’s small group sizes and exclusive nighttime access make for an intimate, immersive experience. It’s best suited for those interested in haunted stories, paranormal phenomena, or unique evening activities. Keep in mind, some may find the dark and ghostly themes a bit intense, so it’s not ideal for very young children or the faint of heart.
Bottom Line: An atmospheric, spine-chilling tour that combines genuine history with ghostly tales, perfect for thrill-seekers and fans of the supernatural.
4. Shrewsbury: Axe Throwing Experience with 18 Games
For a lively change of pace, the Axe Throwing Experience offers a fun, interactive activity that’s suitable for friends, family, or corporate groups. In just one hour, you’ll learn how to throw axes safely from WATL-certified instructors and compete in 18 different games using state-of-the-art ChampThrow tech. This experience guarantees a good time, whether you’re aiming for the bullseye or just trying to beat your mates.
What makes this activity stand out is its combination of safety, technology, and fun. It’s not just about throwing axes but participating in a variety of games that make each round different. The app connection adds an extra layer of engagement, and the strict no-axe-hole policy ensures everyone’s safety.
Priced at around $41 per person, this experience offers excellent value for a one-hour adrenaline shot. It’s particularly suited for those looking for a fun, active activity that breaks the usual sightseeing routine. No prior experience is needed, and the friendly instructors make sure everyone feels confident.
Bottom Line: An energetic, safe, and entertaining activity that adds a playful twist to your visit to Shrewsbury — great for groups and outdoor enthusiasts.
$41 per person
How to Choose
Selecting the right tour depends on your interests, schedule, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you’re a history enthusiast, the Shrewsbury Prison Guided Tour offers in-depth storytelling, while the Self-Guided Entry Ticket grants freedom to explore the prison at your own pace. For thrill-seekers or night owls, the Ghost Tour adds a spooky dimension with exclusive nighttime access. If you’re just looking for a fun, active break, the Axe Throwing Experience provides a lively challenge.
Consider your budget and time constraints: guided tours are more structured and insightful, but self-guided options offer flexibility. The ghost tour is best in the evening, while the axe throwing can be enjoyed anytime within its operating hours. Early booking is advisable, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Shrewsbury offers a mix of historic, spooky, and active experiences that cater to different tastes. The Shrewsbury Prison Guided Tour is ideal for history lovers who want a guided, engaging story, while the Ghost Tour appeals to those craving a spooky adventure after dark. For families or groups seeking something light-hearted and energetic, the Axe Throwing Experience delivers a memorable activity.
No matter your choice, booking early is wise—these experiences tend to fill up, especially during peak times. With options spanning from deep dives into the past to adrenaline-pumping fun, Shrewsbury makes a great destination for a day filled with authentic, engaging tours.