North Yorkshire Council
📍 87A Dean Rd, Scarborough YO12 7QS, UK
About North Yorkshire Council
The Old Scarborough Borough Jail, located at 87A Dean Rd in Scarborough, is a remarkable historical landmark. Originally constructed in 1866, this imposing building served as the local gaol for both male and female prisoners until its closure just twelve years later in 1878. Visitors often stumble upon this intriguing site and are captivated by its unique past, with an informative sign outside detailing its original layout and fascinating history. It holds an excellent 4/5 star rating from many impressed visitors.
Recognised as a listed building, the Old Borough Jail is celebrated for its well-preserved architecture and magnificent old wooden doors. While it currently functions as a council depot, the interior retains many original features, including cell fittings and a spiral staircase. Public access to this captivating glimpse into Scarborough's penal history is typically available only during special occasions, such as Heritage Week open days.
Visiting Information
Opening hours for the site are not regularly provided, as public access is limited to special events. Please note that wheelchair accessible parking is not available.
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📍 87A Dean Rd, Scarborough YO12 7QS, UK
from 39 reviews
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Showing 5 of 39 reviews from Google Maps.Last updated 5 February 2026.
We stumbled on this historical landmark walking into Scarborough while on holiday. It was once upon a time the local jail/gaol that had both male and female inmates/prisoners. There is a sign outside that gives a map of the layout and information of its past. Today, behind the imposing doors the facility is used by the council and a day nursery
Been to Scarborough hundreds of times but never seen this. I just love old building and love looking into the history of them. I see it wasn't a prison for long just 12 years, I wonder why. So pleased we came across it and just love the old wooden door.
Old Borough of Scarborough Jail is listed. Built 1866 & closed 1878, now Council depot. Interior well preserved with original cell fittings and spiral staircase. Only accessible to public for occasions such as Heritage Week open days.
Grade II listed gothic style building. Not been a detainee within, personally, ha. Council owned now as a depot/nursery and not open to public. Operational as a gaol for just 12 years from 1866 to 1878. The new "escape proof" prison, which replaced this building, had an escapee within its first week, a prisoner who managed to scale the 15ft wall.
You can't actually "visit" inside this place but it's well worth a look and has an interesting history, as it was only actually a prison for 12 years up to 1878! Lovely old building. I volunteer there for a local CIC, so have seen inside. All the cells and old staircases are still there and nicely preserved!