PUNISHMENT cells never seen by the public have been opened up for the first time at Oxford Castle.

The set of punishment cells from the 1800s and a 13th century well chamber will officially open to the public on March 31.

But as part of English Tourism Week this week, special free tours will run tomorrow and Friday at noon.

Some of Oxfordshire’s tourism VIPs took their first look round yesterday, including Lord Mayor Elise Benjamin and Oxford Preservation Trust director Debbie Dance.

The punishment cells were built in the 1780s under the eye of Prison Governor Daniel Harris. Prisoners could be confined there for weeks on their own with just bread and water.

To get on a free tour, send your name and contact details to info@oxfordcastleunlocked.co.uk.