Peterhead Prison: Audio Tour & Railway Carriages Ticket

Summary

Walk Scotland’s toughest jail with real voices echoing history

You’ll walk Peterhead Prison’s stone corridors with an audio guide in your ears—real stories from former officers, close-up views of Britain’s first state-owned prison railway carriages, and details of the dramatic SAS siege. Expect cold walls and honest voices that linger after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel a chill right away, but there it was — not just the cold stone of Peterhead Prison, but something in the air as soon as we stepped through those heavy doors. The place isn’t trying to scare you, it just does. You get your audio set at the start (I fumbled with mine for a minute — tech and I aren’t always friends), and then it’s like the walls start talking. Real voices of ex-officers, blunt and Scottish, telling you what actually happened here. I caught myself slowing down to listen more than once.

Our guide — well, he wasn’t hovering, just gave us a nudge about the old railway carriages tucked away behind one wing. “Britain’s first state-owned prison railway,” he said, almost proud. The metal was cold when I touched it (couldn’t help myself), and it smelled faintly of oil and rust. There’s something about seeing those battered carriages that makes you realize how much came through these gates — people, supplies, stories nobody tells outside.

The part about the SAS siege in 1987 surprised me most. The audio gets quiet before that section, like even the building remembers. Four days trapped in here — can’t imagine it. Someone near me whispered “Scotland’s Alcatraz” under their breath; funny how places get reputations that stick harder than paint on these old walls.

I left thinking about all those small moments — a guard’s laugh echoing down a corridor on the recording, or the way sunlight barely made it through certain windows (Aberdeenshire clouds don’t help). It’s not a pretty place, but it sticks with you longer than you’d think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Peterhead Prison Museum

• Arrive at former HM Convict Prison
• Walk galleries and halls
• Listen to award-winning audio tour
• Experience sensory exhibits
• Learn about Britain's first state railway
• Discover SAS siege history
• Follow footsteps of officers and inmates

Top questions

Is Peterhead Prison Museum wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

Does the Peterhead Prison tour include an audio guide?

Yes, your ticket includes an award-winning audio set.

Can infants or small children join the tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller.

Are service animals allowed at Peterhead Prison Museum?

Yes, service animals are permitted throughout the museum.

How long is the typical visit to Peterhead Prison Museum?

The duration varies but most visitors spend around 1–2 hours exploring at their own pace.

Is there public transportation to Peterhead Prison Museum?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

What historical events are covered on the tour?

The tour covers 125 years of history including Britain’s first state-owned prison railway and the 1987 SAS siege.

What’s included

Your visit includes entry to Peterhead Prison Museum with an award-winning audio set so you can explore at your own pace; everything is wheelchair accessible and families with strollers or service animals are welcome too.