The Tolhouse

The Tolhouse in Great Yarmouth is one of the oldest prisons in the country and was built over 800 years ago. It was homed to a rich merchant before being passed into the hands of the Yarmouth town officials.

Here it began its long association with the law, used as a courtroom, police station and a notorious dungeon, known as 'the hold.'

Over the years The Tollhouse has been home to pirates, robbers, murderers, and common crooks. It has been attacked by rioters and by enemy bombs, yet still stands today.

Since the 1880s this building has become a Museum and today tells the story of crime and punishment in Great Yarmouth over the years.

There is definitely plenty to see and do here, and a free audio guide is provided for you on arrival to hear how the prisoners described their experiences, as you make your way around the prison.