The Clink Prison Museum is built upon the original site of the Clink Prison dating back to 1144 making it one of England’s oldest if not the oldest prison. Visitors will experience a hands on educational exhibition allowing visitors to handle original artefacts including torture devices and along with the opportunity to view and hear the amazing stories of the inmates and the notorious Southbank.
Owned by the Bishop of Winchester, The Clink Prison was used to control the Southbank of London known as “The Liberty of The Clink” which housed much of London’s entertainment establishments including four theatres, bull baiting, bear baiting, inns' and many other darker entertainments.
The Clink Prison was only small part of a vast complex on the Bankside that the Bishop owned called Winchester House. At one point in history Henry VIII planned to take control of the palace using it as one of his own. Parts of the Great Hall still stands even today including the world famous Rose Arch Window preserved by English Heritage.
Visitors to the area included individuals such as William Shakespeare, King Henry VIII, Sir Francis Drake, Geoffrey Chaucer and many more.
Why not explore The Prison that gave its name to all others,The Clink Prison.
