Jedburgh Castle Jail & Museum

On Monday 17 May 2021 we moved to Level 2 under the Scottish Governments new structure of local Covid protection levels.

As we move to Level 2 restrictions we will re-open services under the phases we published on 14 April – details of this can be found (here – https://www.liveborders.org.uk/book/coronavirus/ ).

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.

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.