Experience a guided tour of the Old Gaol after dark! The Old Gaol (jail) served as the primary prison for the Province of Maine and York Country during the 18th and 19th centuries. The existing structure includes a House of Corrections, a 1719 prison, a kitchen, guard rooms, 1763 cells, and a 1799 Debtors’ Prison. Hear about the prisoners that spent time there, the colonial court system, and the structural history of this National Historic Landmark.
The tour begins promptly at the Old York Museum Center at 3 Lindsay Rd. Parking is available along Lindsay Road and in Old York’s parking lot. Please arrive no later than 5 minutes prior to the start time.
The tour lasts approximately an hour. The Gaol can be chilly, so please dress warmly. Guides will have lanterns, but it is recommended that guests bring their own flashlights for the walk to and from the Gaol.
The terrain is uneven, and comfortable shoes are recommended. Participants access the Gaol by walking up an incline on Gaol Hill and navigate a steep interior staircase to the Goal’s second floor. Unfortunately, this tour is not recommended for those with mobility issues.
This tour will take place rain or shine. In the case of severe weather, the tour may be cancelled and tickets will be refunded, or credited towards another scheduled tour.
Each tour is limited to 16 people, and you must pre-register online (this includes members). No tickets will be sold at the door.
