The Tolhouse Gaol

Step inside Tolhouse Gaol, once home to pirates, robbers, murderers, and those accused of witchcraft. One of Britain’s oldest prisons, this formidable building has a turbulent past. Originally built as a merchant’s house over 800 years ago, it later became a courtroom, a town gaol with a notorious dungeon, and even a police station.

Explore the grim reality of life behind its thick stone walls and uncover the fate of thieves, smugglers, witches, and pirates when punishment often meant execution.

Through immersive displays and hands-on activities, Tolhouse Gaol offers a haunting journey into England’s long and brutal history of crime and punishment.

Adult: £5.30
Concession: £5.00*
Child (age 4-18): £4.60
Family discount adult: £4.80 (available with a paid child ticket)
Child under 4: Free
Twilight ticket (one hour before closing): £1.50
Free admission with a Norfolk Museums Pass

*Concessions: Over 65s, students and disabled people. Disabled people can bring one companion in free of charge.

Open on select dates during the school holidays:

6-22 April 2025
Sunday to Friday, 10am-4pm
4-5 May 2025
Sunday to Monday, 10am-4pm
25 May-1 June 2025
Sunday to Friday, 10am-4pm
23 July-2 September
Sunday to Friday, 10am-4pm
26 October-2 November
Sunday to Friday, 10am-4pm

Paid for parking

Public transport less than 1 mile