Visit the Clink museum for a taste of what it was like to be banged up in the Bishop of Winchester's personal prison. The clinking of chains inspired the name and gave rise to the expression 'in the clink'. A prison operated on this site continuously from 890 AD to the mid 18th century and there are centuries of unpleasant and moving tales within the Clink's displays.

Prisoners were treated very badly, unless they were rich, and the prisons were designed to ratchet as much money as possible from detainees before releasing them. Cruel and unusual punishments included whipping, manacles and the introduction of a ducking stool.

What is most surprising is that much of the extortion and torture was all overseen by a bishop. (Although at times many of the prisoners were clergy indicted for heresy or, er, casual sex.) A grim and fascinating place whose grisly details will especially delight young children.