Stirling Jail

Right in the heart of Stirling’s historic Old Town, this former Victorian prison has been transformed into an interactive visitor experience where Scotland’s darker past comes to life. It’s the perfect spot for families with older kids who enjoy stories of rogues, escapes, and life behind bars — all safely from the other side of the cell door!

Step into the cells and meet Stirling’s Criminal past

The Old Town Jail isn’t just a place to look around — it’s brought to life with entertaining guided tours and character performances that really engage visitors. You’ll meet costumed guides who tell tales of former prisoners, daring escapes, and the grim reality of 19th-century prison life.
Families can explore the atmospheric corridors, peep into original cells, and even climb the jail tower for panoramic views over Stirling (weather permitting). It’s educational, but with just the right amount of theatre to keep kids and adults entertained throughout.
It’s best suited for families with children aged 6+, as younger ones might find the setting a bit spooky — but there’s nothing too scary, just plenty of fascinating stories.

Parking and facilities

The Old Town Jail is within walking distance of Stirling city centre and close to other attractions like Stirling Castle and the Church of the Holy Rude. There’s paid parking nearby at the Castle Esplanade or city centre car parks.
There’s a small gift shop on-site, but no café — though you’re only a short stroll from plenty of cafés, restaurants, and toilets in the town centre.

Opening times & costs

The jail is open seasonally, usually from spring through autumn, with guided tours running throughout the day.

Ticket prices:

Adults: £10
Children (5-15): £7
Under 5s: Free
Family ticket: around £28

Booking ahead is recommended during holidays and weekends as tours can fill up quickly.

How long do you need?

Tours and exploring the jail take around 1 to 1.5 hours. It’s a great addition to a day in Stirling, especially if you’re already visiting nearby historic sites.

Good to know

-Best for children aged 6+
-Guided tours with live performances
-Tower climb included (weather dependent)
-Paid parking nearby
-No on-site café, but close to town facilities
-Open seasonally (check ahead in winter months)
-A mix of indoor exploration with some outdoor views

A fun and fascinating peek behind bars

The Old Town Jail is a brilliant indoor attraction for families wanting something a bit more unusual in Stirling. It’s packed with stories, interactive tours, and just enough atmosphere to make it exciting without being too scary for kids.

If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and slightly quirky way to spend a couple of hours — especially when the weather isn’t ideal — this is a great choice. After all, how often do you get to choose to spend time in jail?

Location