Inveraray Jail, Inveraray, Argyll and Bute

The dog friendly Inveraray Jail (click / tap to enlarge)

Inveraray is a lovely town on the shore of Loch Fyne, Argyll and Bute. It's a place that we return to when in the area, as it has a lot to offer. There's a beautiful walk past the striking Inveraray Castle up to the stunning look out at Dun na Cuaiche, there are some great shops (some dog friendly too) and the dog friendly café, Brambles (on Main Street), which makes for a perfect place to rest and refuel! There's also a very unusual dog friendly attraction: Inveraray Jail.

We had been planning to visit this 19th century jail and court house for quite some time and finally did so last month. It was quite a refreshing change to be able to take Jasper and Tommy into an attraction like this and they loved it! The audio guide and information panels were very illuminating and delved into the wider history of crime and punishment in Scotland, in addition to the history of the jail and courthouse themselves.

Given the time of year it was pretty quiet but there were still two guides on duty, one portraying the role of prison guard and the other a prisoner. They provided a very interesting, informative and entertaining insight into life in the jail and both made a fuss of the dogs.

I'd recommend visiting if you happen to be in the area. You can find more details on their website here. There's plenty of parking (free at the moment) along The Avenue. You can find a map and link to the parking location at the end of the article. Information is current as of our last visit in January 2023.

Here are some photo highlights of the jail and town (all photos can be clicked / tapped to enlarge):

Inveraray Jail

Jasper doesn't seem too sure about what might be involved with this place!

One of the many grim depictions of old fashioned justice!

The court was a sombre affair until Jasper and Tommy turned up!

"He definitely did it! Do you think they'll let me be on the jury?"

"Can we put Tommy on trial?"

"What does being in contempt of court mean? You best not be leaving me in here!"

"I demand to be let out! I was framed! Jasper did it!"

The delightful exercise cages!

Lots of room to take full advantage of an hour's fresh air per day!

"I've earned the privilege of working for the warden now! I trust you have an appointment!"

"Tommy! I'll pop round to your cell later, I've got a new improved prison uniform especially for you!"

Inveraray War Memorial with Garron Bridge and Dun na Cuaiche across the water to the left

Looking out across Loch Fyne

The historic ship "Vital Spark" at Inveraray Pier

Map of the town. Parking is available all along "The Avenue". Parking location and Inveraray Jail both circled on map. Click / tap to enlarge.

Link to parking location on Google Maps