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Places to Visit in Jedburgh, Borders

Jedburgh Castle Jail & Museum, Jedburgh

Jedburgh Castle Jail & Museum

Jedburgh Castle
Castle Gate
Jedburgh
Borders
TD8 6BD
Tel: +44 (0)1835 864750
Website: click here

Built in the 1820’s to a design by Archibald Elliot following prison reform priciples of John Howard, Jedburgh Castle Jail & Museum offers an insight into what prison life was like during the 19th century. Here visitors may trace the history of law and order and discover the harsh sentences, including transportation, imposed upon children and adults.

The imposing structure stands on the site of the former Castle of Jedburgh, which was razed to the ground in 1409, and enjoys commanding views from the top of the Castlegate over the scenic town of Jedburgh. The building is a scheduled monument of importance - rated category A and enjoying an unique architectural status in the Scottish Borders. It offers a fascinating chronicle of the 19th century for both architecture historians and visitors seeking something different for a day out.

Nowadays the Jailer’s House acts as a museum for the Royal Burgh of Jedburgh, with traditional displays, costumed figures and audio visuals bringing history to life. Discover fascinating facts on the links Jedburgh has with leading figures in scientific discovery. The kaleidoscope was invented by Sir David Brewster - a native of Jedburgh. Mary Somerville, an eminent scientist of her day hailed from Jedburgh. She has an Oxford College named in her honour. James Hutton, the father of modern geology, studied formations of sandstone cliffs in Jedburgh and formulated revolutionary theories which challenged theological beliefs of his day concerning the creation of the earth.

Displays on crime & punishment and the Prison Reform movement, are set within the magnificent castellated cell blocks. Here the stories of inmates, prison staff and infamous sons and daughters of Jedburgh are recounted against the background of law and order in Scotland.

There are extensive grounds, facilities for picnics, parking to the rear of the building and a souvenir shop with refreshments on site.

Jedburgh Castle Jail & Museum, Jedburgh

Facilities
Picnic Area, Children's activities, Car Park, School Tours Available.

Weddings and Conferences
WEDDINGS IN JEDBURGH, SCOTTISH BORDERS
Licensed for civil wedding ceremonies.

Opening Times
Late March - End October. Monday - Saturday 10.00-4.30, Sunday 1.00 - 4.00. Last entry 30 minutes before closing

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