GHOST hunters, escape room enthusiasts and history lovers can rejoice as Shepton Mallet Prison’s future as a tourist attraction has been secured.

Cove Group, who have been operating the site as a tourist attraction since 2017, have now exchanged contracts and say the landmark deal has guaranteed the preservation and future development of this iconic heritage site as a “premier global tourism destination”.

The group also say that this deal means there is a “certainty” that the historic prison will not be subjected to any residential housing developments within its walls.

The prison, which is believed to be the world’s oldest purpose-built jail dating back more than 400 years, has seen a new lease of life since 2017 with Cove Group hosting guided tours, ghost tours, escape rooms and educational activities.

Joel Campbell, CEO of Cove Group, has expressed his excitement Picture: Shepton Mallet Prison

Joel Campbell, CEO of Cove Group, said: “This marks the biggest step forward in our 10-year relationship with Shepton Mallet Prison.

“From our initial a bid to buy it from the Ministry Of Justice to the recent threat of closure, our dedication has never wavered.

READ MORE: Shepton Mallet prison to close with the loss of 18 jobs

“Now, after months of intense negotiations, we have secured the future of Shepton Mallet Prison, protecting it from the threat of closure, preserving its historical significance, and securing jobs for its dedicated staff.’’

The prison has proved popular with ghost hunters in recent years Picture: Shepton Mallet Prison

There were fears the prison could close at the start of 2024, with the potential loss of 18 jobs, following what was described by Cove Group as a breakdown in their relationship with City & Country.

Cove Group say the prison has been left in a “tired state” due to what they describe as restrictive lease terms, but it is now eager to begin extensive investment and development plans for the site.

The prison has attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors since it was opened for public events in 2017, Cove Group said Picture: Shepton Mallet Prison