
Family-friendly activities
Jedburgh Castle Jail & Museum
Overview
This museum is currently closed.
Jedburgh Jail looks like a grand castle, but inside it’s a different story! The museum is a 4 star visitor attraction and gives visitors a taste of what life was like in a 1820s prison. You can walk through the original cell blocks, see some of inmates and their conditions and follow their stories. Find out why some people thought it was the most comfortable jail in Scotland. The building has also gained a reputation for ghostly sightings!
The Jailer’s house is home to the town museum, telling the story of the Royal Burgh of Jedburgh from ancient times, with exhibitions focusing on traditions, industries and the town’s rich history. Displays trace the stories of some of the town’s famous people – Mary Somerville the mathematician, David Brewster the inventor of the kaleidoscope and James Veitch the astronomer.
Built on the site of old Jedburgh Castle, the building was designed in a castellated style by locally born architect Archibald Elliot – famous for designing Calton Jail in Edinburgh. The Jail also has a ghostly reputation, with paranormal investigations and overnight visits available.
View our Museum and Gallery guide to find out more about what’s going on across our museums. Looking for inspiration? Take a look at our tourism guide to make the most of your trip to the Borders. Plan your journey with Traveline Scotland.
Plan your visit

There is free parking, including disabled spaces, but also accessible by public transport (10 min walk). Coach tours are welcome. There is a gift shop. There are toilets, disabled toilets and baby changing facilities. Assistance dogs are welcome and there is a hearing loop.
There is a lot to see and do for a day out at Jedburgh Jail, children can dress up and enjoy plenty of hands-on activities.
The grounds offer fine views over the town and surrounding countryside.
Admission is free: donations are welcome.
Castlegate, Jedburgh,TD8 6QD
View on mapsGet in touch
- Tel: 01835 864 750
- Email: enquiries@liveborders.org.uk
Opening Times
Open from 25 March 2019 – 2 November 2019