Step Inside History: Visiting the Historic H.M. Prison in Grand Turk

When most travelers think of Grand Turk, they picture white sand beaches and turquoise seas — but there’s another side of the island waiting to be discovered. The Historic H.M. Prison, located in the heart of Cockburn Town, offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past and is one of the most unique tours in the Caribbean.

The Story Behind the Prison

The prison, officially known as Her Majesty’s Prison, was once the main correctional facility on the island. Built in the 1830s, it housed inmates until it was decommissioned in 1994. Today, it has been carefully preserved as a cultural and historical site, allowing visitors to walk through its cells, courtyard, and guard towers while imagining what life was like behind the walls.

What You’ll Experience on the Tour

Get ready to go back in time as you explore the oldest prison in the Turks and Caicos Islands. This immersive tour invites you to discover Grand Turk’s rich history, from the days when sea salt production ruled the economy to the years when smugglers island-hopped their “precious cargo” northward.

Step inside the almost 200-year-old cell block and imagine the clang of the iron gates as they close behind you. Wander through narrow cells, each one telling the story of a former inmate from a different era. Examine artifacts and personal effects left behind, and imagine the lives of those who once walked these same corridors.

Beyond the cell blocks, you’ll explore the grounds of the prison and learn how it shaped Grand Turk’s colonial past. To deepen the experience, you can also enjoy the Discover Grand Turk film, a visually stunning introduction to the island’s culture, people, and natural beauty. This short film sets the stage for your visit, creating a vivid picture of a place that seems frozen in time.

Why the Prison Tour is a Must-Do in Grand Turk

While Grand Turk is famous for its beaches, this excursion offers something different: a chance to connect with the island’s history and culture. It’s a short, engaging tour that fits perfectly into a cruise-day schedule — making it one of the top things to do in Grand Turk if you want to explore more than just the sand and sea.

Booking Your Prison Tour

Unlike most other excursions in Grand Turk, which must be booked through the cruise line, the Historic H.M. Prison Tour is available to book directly on our website. That means you can secure your spot in advance and ensure you don’t miss this one-of-a-kind experience.

👉 Book your Grand Turk Prison Tour today and step into history on your next Caribbean cruise stop.