[1] The Northern Ireland Environment Agency has given it a grade A listed building status because of its architectural and historical significance.

Built within a five-sided wall, the four wings are up to four storeys in height and fan off from the central area which was known as The Circle.

Children from impoverished working-class families were often imprisoned at the gaol in the early years for offences such as stealing food or clothing.

The execution of Tom Williams, a nineteen-year-old member of the IRA, took place on 2 September 1942; he was hanged for the slaying of an RUC officer.

[2] In October 1971 members of the International Red Cross were allowed to inspect the prison/internment center along with Long Kesh Detention Centre.

[6] During the Troubles of the 1970s Martin Meehan and several other members of the Irish Republican Army made successful escapes from Crumlin Road.

Some of the more well known prisoners included Éamon de Valera, Dáithí Ó Conaill, Martin McGuinness, Michael Stone and Bobby Sands.