Capital Punishment UK – History of the Death Penalty in Britain

This site documents historical cases of execution and criminal justice drawn from contemporary records and accounts.

If you’re interested in exploring these cases in more detail, you can download a free curated collection of 10 cases, fully illustrated with photographs.

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Capital Punishment, the Death Penalty and Executions in Britain

Capital Punishment UK is a historical resource documenting the history of capital punishment, the death penalty and judicial executions in Britain and around the world. The site contains hundreds of detailed case studies, execution records, prison histories and accounts of notable criminals, executioners and historic executions drawn from contemporary sources.

When Was the Last Hanging in the UK?

The last executions in the United Kingdom took place on 13 August 1964 when Peter Anthony Allen and Gwynne Owen Evans were hanged for murder. These were the last judicial hangings carried out in Britain and marked the end of an era that had lasted for centuries. Capital punishment for murder was suspended in 1965 and later abolished permanently.

Many visitors come to this site looking for information about the last hanging in the UK, the last execution in Britain, the last death penalty case and the final prisoners to be executed. Detailed accounts of these cases can be found throughout the site.

What Is Capital Punishment?

Capital punishment, commonly known as the death penalty, is the execution of a person by the state as punishment for a crime. Throughout British history, capital punishment was imposed for a wide range of offences, including murder, treason, piracy, espionage and many crimes that formed part of the eighteenth-century Bloody Code.

The history of capital punishment in the UK reflects changing attitudes towards crime, punishment and justice. Over time, the number of capital offences was reduced until the death penalty was eventually abolished.

Public Executions in Britain

Public executions were once a major feature of British life, attracting crowds of thousands to places such as Tyburn, Newgate and county gaols throughout England and Wales. Executions were intended to act as a deterrent and demonstrate the authority of the law.

The last public execution in Britain took place in 1868 when Michael Barrett was hanged outside Newgate Prison. Following concerns about disorder and public behaviour, executions thereafter took place behind prison walls.

What Crimes Were Punishable by Death in the UK?

Historically, offences punishable by death included murder, treason, piracy, espionage, arson in royal dockyards, counterfeiting and many other crimes. During the height of the Bloody Code, more than 200 offences could theoretically result in a death sentence.

Although capital punishment has now been abolished in the United Kingdom, its history continues to be studied because of its impact on criminal justice, law reform and society.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the last execution in the UK?

The last executions in the UK were those of Peter Anthony Allen and Gwynne Owen Evans on 13 August 1964.

When was the last public hanging in the UK?

The last public hanging in Britain took place in 1868 when Michael Barrett was executed outside Newgate Prison.

What is the difference between capital punishment and the death penalty?

There is no difference. Capital punishment and the death penalty are two terms for the same legal punishment.

Does the UK still have the death penalty?

No. Capital punishment has been abolished in the United Kingdom and is no longer available as a sentence for any offence.

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