Peterhead Prison Guided Tour

Peterhead Prison Museum

Available until 31 December 2025

Book a Self-Guided Tour at Peterhead Prison Museum, Scotland’s Toughest Jail, and get ready to step back in time. It’s a must-see attraction in Aberdeenshire!

Peterhead Prison is a must-see for anyone taking a trip to Scotland and has an interest in its past and fascinating stories.

Get ready to go behind-the-bars and discover the heritage and history of the only 'convict prison' in Scotland at Peterhead Prison Museum in Aberdeenshire!

Guided Tours: What To Expect

Step into Peterhead Prison Museum and enjoy an unmissable Guided Tour! Led by an expert guide, you'll delve into the real-life stories of life inside Scotland's Toughest Jail.

Upon arrival, you'll be greeting by one of the Tour Guides, who have an extensive, encyclopedic knowledge of the prison's turbulent past, dating back to 1888! Listen as they shine a light on what life behind bars was really like.

Explore the Prison's History

Peterhead Prison was Scotland’s first and only convict prison, which first opened its doors in 1888 and operated until its decommissioning in 2013. On your guided tour, you'll explore the historic halls, step inside the cells that housed some of Scotland's most notorious prisoners and walk in the footsteps of officers as they did 125 years ago.

Discover the Unique Past

Set within a 6-acre site, Peterhead boasts the UK's first state owned-railway and part of its history saw the only time the Special Air Service were used to end a domestic siege in mainland Britain. You'll hear the gripping tales of the SAS as you stand where they once stood during a daring rooftop rescue.

Bonus Museum

Your ticket also includes free entry into the Lifeboat Museum, home to the iconic Julia Park Barry of Glasgow takes centre stage!

Make the Most of Your Visit

Feeling peckish? Stop by the on-site café, where you can enjoy a warming coffee, hearty homemade soup or delicious toasties. As you dine, soak in the stunning views of Peterhead’s harbour and get a unique perspective of the prison’s exterior from the other side.

Guided Tours at Peterhead Prison:

Join an expert tour guide with extensive knowledge about the prison's history and heritage for an unforgettable guided tour:

Dates: Weekends
Times: 12:30 & 2:30
Duration: 2 hours (suggested)
Age Restriction: Suitable for all ages!
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time (prison gates open at 10am).
Tickets delivered instantly via email and text.

Book Peterhead Prison Museum tickets for one of the best guided tours in Aberdeenshire!

Location

Peterhead Prison Museum

South Road,
Peterhead,
AB42 2ZX

Show on Google Maps

How to find us

Address: Peterhead Prison, South Rd, Peterhead, AB42 2ZX

What3Words: rollover.offline.paler

Facilities

Wheelchair accessible
Food and drink
Parking

More Info

Is Peterhead Prison Museum wheelchair accessible?

Please see the following information regarding wheelchair access at Peterhead Prison Museum:

Clearly marked disabled parking bays and accessible toilet facilities are available.
The main reception, admissions and café have lowered level access points at the counter. Hearing loops have also been installed at all three main support points.
Access ramps are available at the main door and admissions areas.
The route throughout the prison is accessible for wheelchair users.
There is a recently-installed an access lift to ensure access to the final part of the tour as well as the café.

Is there food and drink available at Peterhead Prison Museum?

Yes! If you're feeling peckish, swing by the onsite cafe and enjoy a range of hot and cold food, warm drinks, savoury bites and sweet treats.

Can you take photos in Peterhead Prison Museum?

Yes! There are plenty of fantastic CELLfie opportunities throughout the museum.