Overview

The former Victorian HM Convict Prison Peterhead is unique in that it sits within a 6 acre site, which had the first state owned railway in the UK and was part of the history that witnessed the only time the SAS (Special Air Service) were used to end a domestic siege in mainland Britain.

This award winning Museum is an experience as you back in time as you walk through 125 years of turbulent history inside “Scotland’s Toughest Jail”.

The museum highlights the work of the brave personnel that served here between 1888- 2013, you will visually see what “real” prison life was like, whilst listening to the officers speak of their experiences as part of the audio tour that accompanies your tour and your sense of smell will be stimulated as you enter the laundry, shower block and hospital areas.

Since the opening of HMP Peterhead in 1888, a close connection with the town’s seafaring community has existed making the museum the obvious home for the now restored Julia Park Barry of Glasgow. 

The vessel is now centrepiece to this new museum attraction which not only tells its story, but also of the 200 year history of the lifeboats and lifeboatmen in Peterhead.

The Refuge Café, part of the Peterhead Prison Museum, is currently open to museum visitors and is situated within a unique location. 

For things to do for children aged 5 or under during your café stop, please ask the café team at the point of sale

The Prison Museum has a one-way system in place, however, to support current regulations additional directional arrows and physical distancing reminders are also in place along with motion sensor hand sanitisers at key locations throughout the route.

Normal Price

• Adult £12
• Child £7.50 (aged 6-16)