Dartmoor National Park

HM Prison Dartmoor is located in Princetown.  The prison was opened in 1809 and held French and American prisoners of war.  It became a civilian/criminal prison in 1851.  The prison was closed in 1917 and re-opened in 1920 and contained some of Britains most serious offenders.  Today the prison is classed aa a Category C (closed) adult male prison and can contain up to 646 prisoners at any one time.  Many people still understand the prison to be a high-security prison (Category B) that is escape proof!  Today the prison no longer contains high-risk prisoners and the emphasis is on rehabilitation and education.  There are 6 wings at the prison and the prison dominates this area of the moor with is dark grey granite walls and imposing position.

Dartmoor Prison Museum is located in Princetown just 150 yards from the prison.  There is an interesting collection of artefacts which give an insight into prison life - past and present. There are displays and video presentation explain the life of the prison.

The "Dartmoor Jailbreak" is a charity event held each year.  Civiians (not prisoners!) "excape" from the prison and must travel as far as possible in 4 days, wearing convict clothing and without directly paying for transport.  Money raised in 2009 is expected to be £10,000.