Visitors will have a rare opportunity to step inside Bradford on Avon’s historic Town Bridge Lock Up when the former prison cells open for Heritage Open Days this September.
The Lock Up will welcome visitors from Thursday 17 September to Saturday 19 September, between 10am and 4pm each day.
Originally built as a chapel in the 13th century, the small building on Bradford on Avon’s Town Bridge was later converted into the town’s lock up, also known as a blind house.
Prisoners and people arrested for drunkenness were held inside overnight before appearing before the local magistrate.
While the building’s distinctive exterior can be seen throughout the year, its interior is only usually accessible during Heritage Open Days, making the openings a popular opportunity to explore one of the town’s hidden historic treasures.
Knowledgeable volunteers will be available throughout the three days to welcome visitors, guide them safely inside and share stories about the building’s unusual past.
Entry is free and advance booking is not required.
Event details
Dates: Thursday 17 September to Saturday 19 September
Times: 10am–4pm
Location: Town Bridge, Bradford on Avon
Admission: Free, with no booking required
www.heritageopendays.org.uk/submission-event/world-heritage-open-days-town-bridge-lock-up-1.html
