The Tolbooth Museum
Historic Sites
Museums
Speciality Museums
Attraction
About
The Tolbooth Museum, housed in a 17th‑century former jail, offers visitors a rare and atmospheric glimpse into Aberdeen’s criminal past. Inside the historic gaol cells you can see authentic barred doors, a preserved guillotine used for executions, and an interactive Jacobite cell model that dramatises the fate of the Irish and Scottish rebels awaiting trial. The museum’s blend of true crime artifacts and ghost‑lore stories makes it a compelling stop for families, history buffs and anyone fascinated by Scotland’s unique past.
Highlights
- Prison Cells
- Guillotine Display
- Jacobite Cell Model
Must-See Areas
Prison Cells
Guillotine Exhibit
Jacobite Cell
Good to Know
Good for
Families
History Enthusiasts
Ghost Lore Fans
Best time to visit
Late spring to early autumn – September to October offers mild weather and fewer crowds.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 2 hours