The former Victorian HM Convict Prison Peterhead was the only “convict prison” in Scotland (to go there you would have been sentenced to penal servitude). It is unique in that it sits within a 6 acre site, had the first state owned railway in the UK and part of the history saw the only time the SAS (Special Air Service) were used to end a domestic siege in mainland Britain. The museum highlights the work of the personnel who 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’.
What can be found at the venue?
Historic building or site
Related crime and punishment profession / organisation
Prison, Courts / judiciary
Significant collections relating to regional crime and punishment organisation or to a particular individual
Cells, halls, kitchen, laundry, barbers shop, booking in area and shower block, court room and punishment block, “silent cell”, exercise yard and hospital.
Does the venue have an online collections catalogue?
No
Details of opening for public access and / or research services
Summer Period (April - October): Monday - Sunday 10am to 6pm (Last Admission 4:30pm)
Winter Period (November - March): Monday - Sunday 10am to 4pm (Last Admission 2:30pm)
Charges: Children under 5: Free; child 6-16: £7.50; family: £27; Adult: £12; Senior: £10
Available services or facilities
Cafe, Shop, Visitor parking, Toilets
Accessibility and disability arrangements / Covid requirements
Parking is available near the main reception for Blue Badge holders within 3 defined areas, however the whole main driveway can accommodate blue badge holders. Please note if parking in these areas your badge must be properly displayed during your visit. For all other visitors we have 80 spaces, with a directional sign on the main road to the main carpark. Signage is then in place to guide you to the main gatehouse. Parking is free of charge.
Accessible toilet facilities located at the main visitor centre block and in the café area, the latter also including a baby changing facility if required; there is a lift
Other connected heritage sites, museums or archives
