Hundreds of people visited the site of Northallerton’s former prison last weekend – to see for themselves what is being uncovered by the archaeological dig.
Almost 650 visitors were welcomed to the site – not just from across Hambleton but as far afield as Scotland and West Yorkshire too.
The open day is one of two included in a month long excavation programme by York Archaeological Trust – which aims to uncover more about the jail’s past before redevelopment work begins.
Staff from Hambleton District Council and the Trust were on hand to explain the excavated site which is showing the foundations of the original exercise yard, cells and a demolished boiler house chimney. Visitors also saw the footings of part of the prison’s famous treadmill.
The second open day is on Saturday September 30 – when the gates will be open to visitors to come and see the site from 10am until 4pm (last admission 3pm). Sturdy shoes are recommended.