Peterhead Prison Self-Guided Tour

Peterhead Prison Museum
Available until 31 December 2025

Buying as a gift? Lovetovisit Gift Card available here!

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!

What To Expect

On arrival, you’ll receive an audio guide and a map to help you explore the prison grounds at your own pace. As you walk through the site, you’ll gain a rare insight into what life was like behind bars for both the officers who worked here and the inmates they watched over.

Journey Through 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. Throughout your visit, you’ll uncover stories and key events that shaped its fascinating and turbulent history.

Explore Key Locations

Wander through the prison halls, cells from different eras, the doctor’s room and step inside the notorious silent cell, once used to punish the most serious prison crimes. Don’t miss the exercise pens, where one pen became the scene of an ingenious escape.

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.

Self-Guided Tours at Peterhead Prison:

Prowl throughout the halls of Peterhead Prison at your own leisure and explore the history behind one of Scotland's most famous prisons.

  • Dates: Everyday
  • Times: 10am - 5pm daily
  • 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 self guided tours in Aberdeenshire!

Location

Peterhead Prison Museum

Peterhead Prison,
South Rd,
Peterhead,
Aberdeenshire,
AB42 2ZX
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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. 

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