Sleep in a Former Jail: Themed Prison Hotels

17 March 2025

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to spend the night behind bars? While the idea of a prison stay sounds like a nightmare, some places have turned it into an unforgettable, thrilling experience. In recent years, themed prison hotels have popped up worldwide, allowing adventurous travelers to swap out their typical accommodations for something a little more… confined.

Now, before you start picturing cold, dingy cells with iron bars and a gloomy atmosphere, let me assure you that these hotels have put a fun twist on the idea. They combine history, quirkiness, and luxury, creating an experience that’s both unique and comfortable. If you’re the kind of person who loves hotels with a story, then this might just be the quirky adventure you’ve been waiting for!

So, let’s dive into the fascinating world of former jails-turned-hotels. Ready to check in?

A New Kind of Hotel Experience: What Is a Prison Hotel?

You’ve heard of art-themed hotels, eco-resorts, and even underwater stays, but a prison hotel? Yep, it's a thing—an increasingly popular niche in the world of themed accommodations. These hotels take over actual former prisons, jails, or lockups and transform them into quirky (yet super cozy) spots for tourists to pause and rest their heads.

The coolest part? The majority of these prison hotels keep much of their historical architecture intact. That means your room might still have the original cell bars, stone walls, or heavy iron doors. Don't worry, modern comforts like plush beds, free Wi-Fi, and room service are usually part of the deal. Think of it as old-world charm meeting contemporary luxury, with an unexpected twist of jailhouse nostalgia.

Why Would Anyone Want to Sleep in a Jail?

I can hear the skepticism already. “Why would anyone PAY to stay in a place where people were once locked up?” Good question! Here’s the thing: It’s about the experience. We travel not just to relax, but to create memories, explore history, and immerse ourselves in something different. A themed prison hotel offers an adventure like no other.

Plus, these hotels often come with a rich backstory. Many of them date back centuries and have seen everything from political prisoners to infamous criminals. Staying in a former jail gives you a gateway into history — without the whole ‘being a prisoner’ bit, of course. It’s like getting a history lesson wrapped up in an Instagrammable moment!

Famous Prison Hotels and Their Unique Stories

If you’re ready to take the plunge and live out a night (or two) in a former jail, you've got options—good ones, at that. From five-star luxury stays to more budget-friendly quirky spots, prison hotels offer something for every traveler.

1. Liberty Hotel (Boston, USA)

The Liberty Hotel in Boston is perhaps one of the most famous, and for good reason. Once home to the Charles Street Jail, this 19th-century prison held some pretty notorious characters. But after extensive renovations, it’s now a luxury hotel that oozes sophistication—without losing its prison roots.

When you step into the lobby, you'll spot remnants of the original jail, including a rotunda that was once the prison’s central guard post. The rooms are sleek, modern, and luxurious, but you can still find bits of the past, like exposed brick and iron bars in certain areas. Fancy a drink? Head over to “Clink,” the hotel’s trendy bar where cocktails are served in the former prison cells.

Why stay here?: It’s the perfect blend of history, luxury, and location, all wrapped up in one chic package.

2. Het Arresthuis (Roermond, Netherlands)

Once a forbidding prison, Het Arresthuis has been beautifully reimagined into a luxury hotel. Located in the Netherlands, this 19th-century jail operated until 2007, hosting everyone from minor criminals to serious offenders.

Today, it's one of the most stylish prison hotels around. The rooms (formerly cells) are minimalist but chic, with high-end furnishings, plush beds, and en-suite bathrooms. The hotel even has suites named after prison-related terms like "The Judge" and "The Lawyer," for that added thematic flair.

And if you’re feeling imaginative, there’s a central courtyard where you can sit and wonder what life was like for the prisoners who once called this place home—though rest assured, your stay will be far more comfortable!

Why stay here?: It’s a prime example of old meeting new—prison chic, if you will.

3. Malmaison Oxford (Oxford, UK)

Malmaison Oxford is another former jail turned swanky hotel, this time located in the scenic university city of Oxford. The building once served as Her Majesty’s Prison and has since been transformed into an opulent accommodation that still retains its prison-style charm. Imagine wandering through hallways enclosed by iron bars or staying in an old cell that’s been transformed into a luxurious suite.

From the original cell doors to the eerie, preserved corridors, much of the prison’s layout remains intact. But don’t be fooled by the cold exterior—inside, the Malmaison is all about comfort with plush bedding, bold decor, and all the amenities you’d expect in a high-end hotel.

Why stay here?: It’s an architectural marvel and a trip back in time, with the kind of ambiance that lovers of both history and luxury will appreciate.

4. Four Seasons Sultanahmet (Istanbul, Turkey)

Perfectly situated near the heart of Old Istanbul, this branch of the Four Seasons wasn’t always a world-class hotel. In fact, it used to be a prison for political dissidents. The original structure, built in 1918, has been preserved as a beautiful example of neoclassical Turkish architecture.

These days, the only thing that’s criminal here is how stunning the place is. From the lush courtyard to the intricate design details, it’s hard to believe this place once held inmates. The rooms are lavish, featuring Turkish motifs, vaulted ceilings, and views of Istanbul’s most famous landmarks, including the Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque.

Why stay here?: Experience Istanbul’s rich history from inside a building that played a significant role in its complex past.

5. Långholmen Hotel (Stockholm, Sweden)

Located in the heart of Stockholm, Långholmen Hotel operates out of a 19th-century prison that was fully functional until 1975. It may have started as a place of confinement, but these days, it’s a hip, bustling hotel that caters to travelers looking for something “off the beaten path.”

The rooms (er, cells) are cozy but come with all the modern amenities you’d need, from flat-screen TVs to private bathrooms. Each room is designed with comfort in mind, though you’ll still find some remnants of its former life, like the barred windows. There’s even a chance to don prisoner uniforms and take photos for a little extra fun!

Why stay here?: It's an affordable, quirky option for budget-minded travelers who want to embrace Swedish history.

What to Expect When You Book a Stay at a Prison Hotel

So, you’re intrigued by the concept and ready to book. But what’s the actual experience like? Let’s break it down:

1. The Cell Rooms

Many of these hotels allow you to stay in what were once actual prison cells. But don’t worry—these aren’t the cramped, cold spaces you might be imagining. In fact, they’ve been smartly reworked into cozy rooms that merge historical charm with modern-day comforts. Expect a bit of character like exposed stone, old iron bars, and thick doors, contrasted by plush beds, flat-screen TVs, and luxurious bathroom fixtures.

2. Historical Tours

Because these hotels are so deeply rooted in history, many offer guided tours that take you through the building's past. You’ll get a fascinating glimpse into the lives of past prisoners and hear eerie tales of the hotel’s previous existence as a jailhouse. It’s a great way to connect with the place you’re staying in and to appreciate its transformation.

3. Themed Dining and Activities

Some prison hotels really go all out with the theme. At places like Het Arresthuis, you can dine in areas that were once reserved for inmates or take part in jail-themed activities like escape rooms. A few even offer “prisoner-style” meals for those wanting to immerse themselves in the full experience (but don’t worry, you won’t be stuck eating bread and water).

4. Atmosphere

One of the things that make prison hotels so unique is the atmosphere. The balance of historical preservation with luxury or boutique elements creates a mood that’s hard to replicate. Whether it’s the eerie hallways or the juxtaposition of a high-end spa inside a place that once housed criminals, there’s a certain thrill to staying in these unique locations.

Is a Prison Hotel Stay Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves unique travel experiences, appreciates history, and doesn’t mind a bit of quirkiness thrown into your stay, then absolutely. A night in a themed prison hotel is like checking into a living museum—where you not only learn but get to create new memories. Plus, let's face it: it’s one heck of a story to tell your friends.

On the flip side, if you’re easily spooked or more into ultra-modern, sleek environments, a prison hotel might not hit the mark for you. The historical features can feel a bit heavy, and it’s not for everyone. But hey, that’s what travel is about—finding your vibe!

Final Thoughts

Prison hotels take the concept of themed accommodations to a whole new (and slightly spooky) level. They’ve managed to take history’s darker side and transform it into something fascinating, stylish, and even luxurious. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a bizarre but fun stay, sleeping in a former jail is the ultimate conversation starter.

While it might not be your typical five-star experience, it’s something you’ll never forget. So, who’s ready to check-in? Are you brave enough to trade the Hilton for a former cellblock?