Peterhead Prison Museum

06.03.2025

An amazing visit. I would recommend . Make sure you have a coat and gloves. Finished at the cafe with a warming cup of tea and friendly staff.

06.03.2025

Wonderful insight into Scotlands only Convict Prison.

05.03.2025

For A Grave by the Sea, I explored the dark history of Scotland’s coastal crimes, including the infamous Goatfell Murder of 1889. John Watson Laurie, convicted of the brutal killing of Edwin Rose, was imprisoned in Peterhead, where the harsh conditions mirrored the bleak fates of many criminals of the time. Walking through the prison’s eerie halls and tracing the footsteps of past investigations brought a chilling authenticity to the novel’s atmosphere, blending real history with the haunting mystery of crime fiction.

04.03.2025

Visiting Peterhead Prison Museum felt like stepping into a dark chapter of Scotland’s penal history. This high-security prison, operational from 1888 to 2013, housed some of the most dangerous criminals and was the site of dramatic events, including a notorious riot in 1987 that required special forces intervention. The self-guided audio tour took me through the narrow cells, the cold exercise yard, and the escape tunnels, offering a raw insight into the harsh reality of prison life. The oppressive atmosphere, the stories of former guards, and the grim reality of isolation left a lasting impression on me. It’s a place worth visiting, especially if you’ve never “lived” in such an environment. The experience makes you realize that no risk, no mistake, and no impulsive decision is worth ending up here. Freedom is a gift, and after a visit to Peterhead Prison Museum, you will surely appreciate life beyond its walls in a whole new way.

24.02.2025

A very interesting visit for me and my wife. We found every aspect of it captivating and you can get a good feel of the past in there. The mannequins were creepy but that only added to the ambience. Would highly recommend but wrap up warm on a cold day!

14.02.2025

I'm giving a three stars for my visit to the prison, the reason is that I was disappointed that are (at this time Feb 25) areas which are not open to the pubic. "B" Wing and the upper floors in "D" Wing. Some of the areas inside do look a little run down, but I guess it adds to the atmosphere. I would have liked to have seen a lot more, however, to be fair, there is many areas of historical interest especially the riots back in the 80s. There is a very good audio tour system which is very easy to use and you are able to stop and start at your leisure. There is a lovely café which has a nice selection of food and drink, ideal when going up on a very cold and windy day. Price wise £15.00 single adult (Feb 25) (my photos won't upload)

26.01.2025

Peterhead Prison Museum Review Peterhead Prison Museum offers a captivating look into the grim and fascinating history of Scotland’s former maximum-security prison. Known as the “Harshest Jail in Scotland,” it housed some of the country’s most notorious criminals, including Peter Manuel, the serial killer known as “The Beast of Birkenshaw,” and Johnny Ramensky, a famous safecracker and wartime spy. One of the most dramatic events in the prison’s history was the 1987 riot, when prisoners took control of the facility. During the uprising, they barricaded themselves in and even held a prison officer hostage in the rooftop guard tower. The incident was so severe that the Special Air Service (SAS) was called in to resolve the situation, cementing Peterhead's place in Scotland’s criminal history. The museum does an incredible job of telling these stories with chilling detail, taking visitors through the cells, punishment blocks, and work areas that once contained these infamous individuals. It’s a must-visit for those intrigued by Scotland’s criminal history or looking for a truly unique experience.

22.01.2025

Very good audio guide. Extra features were worth listening to.

10.01.2025

Closed even although website said open

30.12.2024

Absolutely amazing place, with loads of interesting stories, we've choose guided tour, and had a pleasure to met and be guide by Mr. Alex Geddes. This was our first but definitely not the last visit.

17.12.2024

It's fascinating to look round. We loved the self guided tour, it's easy to understand, and it meant we could go round at our own pace. Lovely wee cafe too with great paninis and soup. Really helpful, friendly staff in the reception, prison shop, and cafe. Wrap up well as it's baltic inside the prison.

07.12.2024

Excellent museum and a very immersive experience. The self guided audio tour was a good way to see this and you can wander around at your own pace. The prison complex is an interesting place to explore with lots of original features still in place, and even the smells in certain areas add to the story. Highly recommended!

07.12.2024

A great place to visit, the staff are super friendly and helpful

16.11.2024

Highly recommended when in Peterhead. One of the most impressive museums we've been to in Scotland. Volunteers and staff are lovely and very helpful. Did not try the Cafe but will definitely do when we're back the next time. As well as the gift shoppe that feature local products from around the area.

11.11.2024

I had such an emotional time here. The history and stories blew me away..

10.11.2024

Brilliant experience, fascinating, and would definitely go again. My 2 nephews also really enjoyed it, they were entertained throughout.

31.10.2024

Went to Halloween night absolutely marvellous but you need to be fit for all the running lol 😆

30.10.2024

Really enjoyed the visit, you do the tour using headphones & it was really informative.