Dartmoor Prison Museum

Dartmoor Prison Museum sits in Princetown on the edge of the moor and tells the story of one of the country's best-known prisons. Displays cover more than two centuries of its history, from its early use for French and American prisoners of war to the convict era and the present day. Families can see life-size models of soldiers in period uniforms, prison memorabilia, and the crude but striking weapons made by inmates. Stories of famous prisoners and escapes give older children plenty to talk about, and the museum welcomes dogs. It suits a rainy-day visit or a stop on a trip across Dartmoor, and it is a short visit for younger children, with more to absorb for teenagers interested in history or crime.