Clink Prison Museum

The Basics

A short stroll from Shakespeare’s Globe, Tate Modern, and HMS Belfast, the Clink is easily checked off on a walking tour of South Bank must-sees. Alternatively, themed tours are ideal for the criminally curious, often combining the prison with other shady destinations, such as the Old Bailey. Some packages include admission; otherwise, book tickets in advance to guarantee entry into England’s oldest prison—though escape may not be so simple!

Things to Know Before You Go

• The museum is popular with families and children, though be aware that a portion of the exhibition is dedicated to the history of torture.

• The Clink isn’t wheelchair-accessible.

• There’s no toilet available on-site.

• Admission includes a free group photo.

How to Get There

The museum is about a 5-minute walk from London Bridge station, and under 10 minutes from Bankside Pier. Although you’ll find an NCP car park near the museum, it’s best to avoid driving, as the mostly pedestrian Bankside is easily explored on foot.

When to Get There

A top choice for school trips and family days out, the tiny museum is often crowded. For quieter conditions, go on a weekday morning, when you might even have the museum to yourself.

London’s Famous Prisons

The Clink is an iconic London jail—its name has even become a slang term for a prison cell—but it’s certainly not the only one. Just along the river, the Tower of London stands as one of the capital’s oldest landmarks. Head deeper into Borough to find the remains of Marshalsea, the prison to which Charles Dickens’ father was sent, which inspired the writer’s strong social beliefs and much of his later work.

Ways to explore

Just a short walk from Shakespeare’s Globe, the Tate Modern, and HMS Belfast, the Clink is easily seen on a walking tour of South Bank attractions. Alternatively, the criminally curious can take a themed tour, often combining the prison with other dark history destinations, such as the Jack The Ripper Museum or places thought to be haunted. Visitors can also pass by the museum—but not always go inside—on Harry Potter–themed tours, e-bike tours, and foodie adventures. Some packages include admission; otherwise, book tickets in advance to guarantee entry into England’s oldest prison.

Accessibility

The museum is not wheelchair-accessible.

Age limits

The museum is suitable for children ages 7 and above.

What to pack

Small bag, hand sanitizer, camera

What to wear

Comfortable footwear, layered clothing

Not allowed

Large suitcases, disruptive behaviour

Amenities

Souvenir photography service, hands-on interactive displays, guidebooks

Address

The museum is located about a 5-minute walk from London Bridge station, and under 10 minutes from Bankside Pier. Most visitors tend to travel by public transport rather than driving, or discover the area on a guided walking tour.

Driving

Although there’s an NCP car park near the museum, it’s best to avoid driving, as the mostly pedestrianized Bankside is easily explored on foot and well-connected by public transport.

Public transportation

The best way to get to the museum is to travel to London Bridge station, which is served by the Jubilee and Northern Underground lines, as well as mainline rail services from across London and the South East.

Best times to visit

It’s generally best to arrive close to opening time, if possible, as afternoons can get busy.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are usually quieter than weekends, so aim for a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday if you can.

Best months to visit

School holidays, especially the summer months of July and August, can be very busy. Aim for June or September.

Special events

Check the official website for details on paranormal events at the museum, such as guided ghost hunts.