The prison began housing inmates in 1654

Work to restore the jail to its former glory has been on-going for nearly two years and on Saturday the corridors were opened up.

The 100 cell prison began housing inmates in 1654, but has stood empty since its closure.

Despite the lapse of time many local people can still remember stories about the institution's checkered past.

Visitors to the Pentonville style block will learn about characters such as John Jones, known as the Welsh Houdini, and William Hughes, the last person to be hanged at the prison.

Criminal behaviour

Local schoolchildren have been involved in the redevelopment scheme and pupils from Ysgol Dinas Bran in Llangollen have created a video relating the tales of Mr Jones.

He was born in the Bala area around 1853, and worked as a bricklayer, joiner, labourer, seaman and stoker.

He had a history of criminal behaviour from an early age and boasted about crimes he had not actually committed.

Prison officers lived in Ruthin

In October 1913, John Jones escaped from Ruthin Gaol and went on the run for five days, living rough on the Nantclwyd Estate.

His time as a fugitive came to an abrupt end when he was shot, and died of his injuries.

Denbighshire councillor Rhiannon Hughes said: "This is a truly fascinating story, and visitors are being urged to go and view the video at the new attraction."

She added: "After months of hard work and preparation, the opening day is finally here.

"There is a wealth of history in the jail, and the trail will give visitors a truly gruelling experience.

"We are looking forward to sharing the experience with the people of Denbighshire and beyond.

"We hope visitors to the jail will also take the opportunity of visiting all the cultural and leisure attractions this vibrant county has to offer."