Everything you read on this site is researched and put together by real people.
This site earns a commission when you sign up through certain links, at no cost to you. Commission never determines placement or ranking — see our Affiliate Disclaimer for the full picture. Gamble responsibly.
Here is an experience like no other! If you’re looking for somewhere unique to eat, then the Jailhouse Cafe is top of the list for a different dining experience.
Get your food prepared and served to you by real prisoners, who are eligible for parole on temporary licence.
This interesting cafe gives prisoners a chance to learn new life skills and gain qualifications, aiming to reduce the risk of reoffending when released.
As well as that, the cafe offers lots of opportunities for locals to gain employment through them.
Professional staff are there to guide the risk-assessed prisoners and provide excellent customer service from all members of staff and great opportunities for all.
This is a great chance to support prisoners who are looking to better their lives and to have something positive to put into place for their release.
Come along, eat some delicious food and spread some positivity to people wanting to change their lives for the better.
The cafe is located within the Verne Citadel, you can experience travelling through the prison tunnel to the highest point in Portland.
Providing you with miles of amazing views of The Jurrasic Coast and sometimes the odd cruise ship or two!
The menu has a wide range of food on offer from breakfasts, lasagnes, mac and cheese, jacket potatoes and more.
The outside seating provides an idyllic spot to eat your breakfast, making you feel like you’re on top of the world and will set you up for a great day.
The portions are generous and worth every penny, filling you up and leaving you satisfied.
The dishes are traditional home-cooked food, all served with a smile and a friendly face.
No one can get tired of that view!
As well as lots of delicious savoury dishes, we have to discuss the good stuff.
The sweet treats!
The cakes are out of this world and go above and beyond your standard cupcake or slice of brownie.
You can devour a wide selection of homemade treats such as Missipipi mud pie, chocolate brownie topped with a gooey creme egg, huge Victoria sponge cakes and homemade chocolate delight cheesecake (pictured below.)
Not only is the Jailhouse cafe a fun and unusual place to dine, it also has its very own merchandise!
You can grab anything from a tote bag, hoody, hat, cups and more.
Wear your merch with pride and tell your friends about your fun experience eating at a prison!
Events are held at the cafe, so don’t forget to check out the website for more information about what’s going on.
You will see the likes of a Mother’s Day special, treat your mum to an afternoon cheeseboard or visit the cafe for a murder mystery event.
The cafe is an excellent part of the Portland community, people love visiting for the relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff.
Dogs are welcome and the views from the top are breathtaking and possibly some of the best in Dorset!
Have fun, and thanks for reading.
📍 The Jailhouse Cafe HMP The Verne, Portland DT5 1EQ, United Kingdom
