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Designed by Lanyon and completed in 1846, and said to be influenced by Pentonville TQ3084 : Do Not Pass Go! (HMP Pentonville) the prison closed in 1996. It is open for public tours. A scheme has just been announced for it and the nearby former Girdwood Barracks: “The restoration of these buildings will create the potential for much improved facilities for visitors to the Gaol such as exhibits room, gift shop, café and modern waiting areas. A 170-seat conference theatre in the former prison chapel and educational interactive IT areas will be available for use by the local community, schools and businesses in North Belfast and beyond.
This scheme adds to a number of conservation projects that have already been undertaken to preserve the Grade A listed Gaol buildings. Further projects are planned; the repair of the Gaol roof and walls as well as the 35 metre high ventilation chimney. The Gaol entrance at Summer Street, including the roadway at that part of Summer Street is also due to be refurbished. This will provide a more pleasing environment for local residents in that area ... Work is due to commence on site in August 2010 with a completion due in Autumn 2011. Due to the extent of this project and other pending conservation projects it will not be possible to keep the Gaol open to the public during this time. However, following the completion of the Gatehouse and Governor’s Corridor, the Gaol will be more accessible for people with disabilities, facilities for visitors will be greatly improved and the tour experience enhanced as the grade A listed building is opened up for increased community, education and business benefit.”