At Shrewsbury Prison, the story has never just been about the building. It’s about the people who lived and worked within its walls, and the individuals who continue to bring those stories to life today.
As the prison marks over a decade as a leading visitor attraction, it also marks the end of an era, celebrating the careers and contributions of two of its most respected figures.
From Officer to Storyteller
After nearly forty years in the prison service, followed by another decade guiding visitors through Shrewsbury Prison, Officer Graham Goodwin is preparing for his final tour.
Beginning his career in 1977, Officer Goodwin served across multiple prisons, overseeing some of the country’s most notorious criminals, including Reggie Kray during his time at HMP Gartree. He arrived at Shrewsbury in 1988, where he remained until its closure in 2013, later retiring from the service in 2015.
When the prison reopened as a heritage-led visitor attraction, he returned once again, this time as a guide.
From day one, he played a pivotal role in shaping the Guided Tour experience, helping to create something that went beyond history, offering visitors a real and honest insight into life behind bars.
Bringing Reality to the Experience
What set Officer Goodwin apart was his ability to translate decades of real experience into stories that resonated.
Whether guiding visitors through the landings or working with students as part of the Education Behind Bars programme, his approach was always grounded in authenticity, sharing not just what the prison was, but what it meant.
Reflecting on his time, he said:
“During my time at Shrewsbury Prison, I’ve been lucky to share my knowledge, both historical and current, with our visitors. I’ve been able to offer them a glimpse into the realities of prison life from the perspective of both prisoners and staff.
With our Education Behind Bars programme, my work with school students has, I hope, helped them understand those same realities and the potential consequences of choices that could seriously harm their future opportunities.”
His influence extended beyond the tours themselves. During the filming of the BAFTA award-winning BBC series Time, he spent time with actor Stephen Graham, offering guidance on how to accurately portray the role of a prison officer.
One Final Tour
As Shrewsbury Prison celebrates its continued success, Officer Goodwin now prepares for his final Guided Tour, marking the end of a remarkable career both inside the prison system and within the attraction itself.
It is a moment that reflects not just his personal journey, but the transition of the prison itself, from a working institution to a place where its history is preserved and shared.
A Legacy That Lives On
That legacy is now being permanently recognised.
In a recent ceremony, Shrewsbury Prison unveiled new education and conference rooms named in honour of Graham Goodwin and fellow former officer Keith Wilcockson, both of whom dedicated over 38 years to the prison service, including 25 years at Shrewsbury.
After retiring as officers, both returned as guides, becoming central figures in the visitor experience and helping to bring the prison’s history to life for thousands of people each year.
Not a Ribbon Cut, But Handcuffs Unlocked
In true Shrewsbury style, the rooms were officially opened not with a ribbon cutting, but by unlocking a pair of handcuffs.
Reflecting on the moment, Graham said:
“To be recognised in this way is incredibly touching. Prison officers rarely get recognition for what they do, most of it is unseen. This gives me a real sense of legacy. One day, my grandson will be able to walk through these doors and say, ‘That was my grandad’.”
Keith added:
“I never imagined when I joined that it would become my life’s work. It’s been tough, but it was a family. This old prison might be bricks and bars, but it’s built on people, staff who gave their lives and made real sacrifices. To be remembered here means everything.”
The Foundations of the Experience
As guides, both men became known for their engaging, honest, and often humorous storytelling, delivering tours that balanced entertainment with education and gave visitors a rare insight into the realities of prison life.
Their contribution has been fundamental in shaping what Shrewsbury Prison is today.
Joel Campbell, CEO of Cove Group, said:
“Graham and Keith are true greats of the prison service and of this attraction. I had the privilege of working with them when we first opened Shrewsbury Prison to the public, and over the past ten years I’ve watched them deliver thousands of tours.
They are the foundations on which our visitor experience was built. I’ve been fortunate to stand on the shoulders of giants. Now, as they retire from their second careers as Tour Guides, they will be remembered and etched into the history of Shrewsbury Prison for years to come.”
More Than a Building
Shrewsbury Prison continues to evolve, but its identity remains rooted in the people who shaped it.
As one chapter closes and another continues, the stories, experiences, and legacy of those who served within its walls will remain at the heart of everything it represents.