Shepton Mallet Prison will open its gates this August Bank Holiday for the return of its Living History Days – marking 400 years since the jail first opened in 1625.

Once known as the country's oldest working prison, Shepton Mallet housed inmates for crimes ranging from petty theft to murder. Over the centuries it served multiple roles – from a Victorian jail and site of public executions to a military prison during the Second World War, when it held U.S. servicemen and stored national treasures including the Domesday Book. It finally closed in 2013.

The event will give visitors the chance to step inside the decommissioned prison and hear stories of those who lived and worked there. Costumed interpreters will bring to life centuries of history, covering crimes, punishments and the day-to-day realities of prison life.

The first Living History Day in May drew strong public interest, with attendees praising the knowledge and storytelling on offer. One visitor described it as "the best day ever… stories that made our jaw drop and others that moved us to shed a tear."

Those attending later this month can also try traditional prison tasks such as oakum picking, while exploring parts of the site not usually open to the public.

Annual pass holders for the prison can book a place at no extra cost, but tickets must be arranged in advance.

Living History Days will run at Shepton Mallet Prison over the August Bank Holiday weekend.