Embark on the ultimate criminal adventure with an immersive tour of Stirling Old Town Jail - the hottest ticket for any potential ‘convict’! Step through the gates and rub elbows with Stirling’s most notorious villains and charming rogues as you explore the historic cells as an honorary inmate. Our top-rated performance tours bring the Jail’s darkly comic and dramatic history vividly to life, with live actors leading you through tales of crime, punishment, and reform in 19th-century Scotland.
Built in 1847 as a bold experiment in Victorian justice, the Old Town Jail went on to become Scotland’s only military prison before falling silent - until now. Today, it’s one of Stirling’s most acclaimed attractions, blending gripping storytelling, atmospheric architecture, and just the right amount of mischief.
After your sentence inside, you’ll ascend the magnificent observation tower, where the breathtaking views across Stirling, the Castle, and the surrounding hills might make you wonder if life on the inside was really so bad after all.
With tours running every 30 minutes daily from 10:15 am to 6 pm (last entry 5:15 pm), plus relaxed lunchtime performances for those who prefer a gentler pace, the Old Town Jail offers unforgettable entertainment for families, friends, and solo explorers alike. Dog-friendly, family-friendly, and brimming with character, it’s the perfect way to experience Stirling’s darker side.