Jail Dornoch – A Highland Gift Shop in a 19th-Century Jail
A unique Highland gift shop in Dornoch’s former 19th-century town jail, blending history with country fashion and Scottish-made gifts.
Housed in Dornoch’s former 19th-century town jail, Jail Dornoch is a distinctive gift shop offering country clothing, accessories, jewellery, pottery, and Scottish-made gifts. The shop blends historic prison architecture – including original cells – with contemporary design, creating a unique shopping experience in the heart of the Highland town. Visitors browse quality Scottish products in a setting rich with local history, just steps from Dornoch Cathedral and the town centre.
A brief summary to Jail Dornoch
- Castle St, Dornoch, Dornoch, IV25 3SD, GB
- +441862810555
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.3 to 1 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 9 am-6 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
- Thursday 9 am-6 pm
- Friday 9 am-6 pm
- Saturday 9 am-6 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit in the morning or midweek to avoid the busiest times, especially during summer weekends when the shop can get crowded.
- Check the shop’s website before your visit to see if a specific item is available, but be aware that not everything stocked in-store is listed online.
- Combine your visit with a stop at the sister shop Country Interiors across the street for a wider selection of Highland homewares and decorative pieces.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Jail Dornoch location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Jail Dornoch
A Jail Turned Gift Shop
Once Dornoch’s town jail, this compact stone building on Castle Street dates from the 19th century and served as a place of incarceration before being repurposed. In 2000, the old prison was transformed into a stylish shop, preserving many of its original features while adapting the space for modern retail. Thick stone walls, small barred windows, and the layout of former cells remain visible, giving the shop a distinctive character that sets it apart from typical boutiques. The conversion respects the building’s past, using the jail’s structure to create intimate, atmospheric rooms where clothing, accessories, and homewares are displayed. This blend of history and contemporary design makes Jail Dornoch more than just a shop – it’s a small piece of Dornoch’s social and architectural story, now open to visitors as a place to browse and buy.What You’ll Find Inside
Jail Dornoch stocks a carefully curated range of country clothing, footwear, handbags, and accessories suitable for both town and country wear. The collection draws inspiration from the surrounding Highlands, with practical yet stylish pieces that reflect the region’s outdoor lifestyle. Alongside fashion items, the shop offers a wide selection of gifts, including jewellery, pottery, Scottish-themed homewares, and locally made products. The gift range includes everything from small souvenirs and treats to more substantial decorative pieces, making it a good spot for finding something distinctive to take home. The shop also sells gift vouchers, useful for those who want to treat someone to a future visit or an online purchase. Its sister shop, Country Interiors, sits just across Castle Street and complements the offering with furnishings and decorative objects.Shopping in a Historic Setting
Walking into Jail Dornoch feels like stepping into a Highland Aladdin’s cave, where the old jail cells now serve as display areas. The contrast between the building’s austere past and its current role as a warm, welcoming shop is part of its charm. Visitors can explore the different rooms, each with its own theme – clothing, accessories, gifts, or homewares – while noticing original architectural details like cell doors and stone walls. The shop’s layout encourages a relaxed browse, and staff are known for a friendly, unhurried approach. Because stock changes frequently and not everything is available online, the in-store experience often reveals unique or seasonal items that aren’t listed on the website. This makes it worth visiting in person, especially for those looking for something special from the Highlands.Practical Details for Visitors
Jail Dornoch is located on Castle Street in the centre of Dornoch, within easy walking distance of the cathedral, the town square, and the beach. Opening hours vary by season: in summer (April–October) the shop is open Monday–Saturday from 9:00 to 18:00 and Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00; in winter (November–March) it opens Monday–Saturday from 9:30 to 17:00 and Sunday from 11:00 to 17:00. The shop is small but well laid out, so a visit typically takes 20–45 minutes, depending on how much browsing is done. There are no restrooms or food options inside the shop itself, but public facilities and cafés are nearby in the town centre. The shop is on a flat street with step-free access, making it suitable for most visitors, though the historic interior may have some uneven surfaces. For those continuing their journey, the shop is also part of a wider retail experience in Dornoch, including the sister Country Interiors store and other local boutiques.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Duke Of Sutherland Monument
11.4 km
A towering Highland landmark blending breathtaking views with the complex legacy of the Duke of Sutherland’s era.
Monument to Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland
12.1 km
A dignified monument in Golspie honoring Harriet, Duchess of Sutherland, a Victorian political hostess and social reformer with a lasting Highland legacy.
Ardgay Bespoke Tours
19.6 km
Experience the Scottish Highlands like never before with personalized tours that celebrate nature, history, and culture in Ardgay.
Craig Castle
30.6 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Craig Castle, a 16th-century fortress overlooking the scenic Cromarty Firth on Scotland’s historic Black Isle.
Sueno's Stone
38.9 km
Scotland's tallest Pictish monument—a 6.5-metre enigma carved with battle scenes and royal ceremony.
Walkhighlands
41.7 km
Explore Scotland step by step with Walkhighlands, your comprehensive guide to hiking and walking routes across the Highlands and beyond.
Asliesk Castle (remains)
43.0 km
Explore the ivy-clad ruins of Asliesk Castle, a 16th-century Scottish tower house steeped in history and legend near Elgin, Moray.
St. Peter's Kirk & Parish Cross
43.0 km
Medieval kirk and rare surviving mercat cross spanning eight centuries of Scottish history.
Crook of Alves (historical placename)
43.3 km
Discover the Crook of Alves, a cultural landmark in Elgin, where history meets stunning natural beauty in Scotland's captivating landscapes.
Culloden House Hotel
43.7 km
Elegant Georgian mansion with historic charm, fine dining, and tranquil gardens near Inverness in the Scottish Highlands.
Eagle Stone Path
44.0 km
Explore the enchanting Eagle Stone Path in Strathpeffer - a historical landmark that combines natural beauty with rich Scottish heritage.
Clach an Tiompain
44.0 km
Explore Clach an Tiompain, a historic stone landmark in Strathpeffer, and immerse yourself in the captivating tales of Scotland's ancient past amidst stunning landscapes.
Cumberland Stone
44.5 km
A glacial giant where legend places a duke watching history unfold across a blood-soaked moor.
Dolphin Spirit Inverness
44.6 km
Experience the thrill of dolphin watching amidst the stunning landscapes of Inverness, Scotland, with Dolphin Spirit Inverness.
Merkinch Local Nature Reserve
44.7 km
Explore nature's serenity at Merkinch Local Nature Reserve in Inverness, where wildlife and picturesque landscapes await every visitor.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dornoch Cathedral
0.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and deep history of Dornoch Cathedral, the northernmost medieval sanctuary on mainland Britain.
Co-op Food - Dornoch - St Gilbert Street
0.2 km
Conveniently located in Dornoch’s Cathedral Square, Co-op Food offers fresh essentials, delivery, and accessibility daily from 7am to 10pm.
Dornoch Beach
0.9 km
Expansive golden sands and serene coastal views await at Dornoch Beach, a tranquil escape on Scotland’s scenic east coast.
The Sutherland Show
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant agricultural heritage and community spirit of the Scottish Highlands at The Sutherland Show in Dornoch.
Skelbo Castle
5.6 km
Explore the evocative ruins of Skelbo Castle, a 14th-century Highland fortress with commanding views over Loch Fleet and a rich Scottish heritage.
The Carnegie Club, Skibo Castle
6.2 km
Experience timeless Edwardian luxury and world-class golf at Scotland’s most exclusive private members’ club nestled in the breathtaking Highlands.
The Glenmorangie Distillery Co
6.6 km
Explore Scotland’s tallest copper stills and innovative whisky craftsmanship at Glenmorangie Distillery by the serene Dornoch Firth.
Tesco Superstore
7.5 km
A modern, accessible supermarket in Tain offering fresh produce, everyday essentials, and community-focused services from 8 AM to 10 PM daily.
Tain Museum
7.7 km
Discover the rich heritage of Easter Ross and Clan Ross at Tain Museum, a charming volunteer-run gem in the Scottish Highlands.
Balblair Distillery
10.0 km
Historic Highland whisky distillery since 1790, offering vintage single malts and warm, intimate tours in scenic Edderton.
Dunrobin Castle & Gardens
12.4 km
Explore Dunrobin Castle’s fairy-tale turrets, historic interiors, stunning gardens, and captivating falconry displays in Scotland’s Northern Highlands.
Fearn Abbey [Church Of Scotland]
12.9 km
Discover Fearn Abbey, the northernmost Premonstratensian church in Scotland, blending medieval heritage with serene rural beauty near Tain.
Tarbat Discovery Centre
12.9 km
Explore the rich Pictish heritage and medieval mysteries of the Tarbat Peninsula at this unique museum set within an ancient Highland church.
Carn Liath
13.8 km
Explore Carn Liath Broch, a remarkably preserved Iron Age stone tower overlooking the Moray Firth, showcasing ancient Scottish ingenuity and coastal beauty.
Hilton Of Cadboll Stone
14.8 km
Discover the Hilton of Cadboll Stone, a stunning 8th-century Pictish cross-slab blending intricate art, rare female imagery, and early Christian symbolism.
Essential places to dine
Dornoch Castle Hotel - Whisky Bar & Dining. Takeaway Pizza!
0.0 km
Historic Scottish castle hotel in Dornoch offering luxury stays, fine dining, and an acclaimed whisky bar with private tastings.
Coach House Bar & Restaurant
0.1 km
A cozy, dog-friendly bar and restaurant in Dornoch serving fresh, locally sourced Scottish dishes with warm Highland hospitality.
Sutherland House (Dornoch) Ltd
0.2 km
Refined Scottish dining in the heart of historic Dornoch, where local flavours meet modern style in a warm, welcoming setting.
Luigi
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian and seafood cuisine in the heart of historic Dornoch, where warm hospitality meets coastal flavors.
Links House at Royal Dornoch
0.3 km
Luxury boutique hotel at Royal Dornoch with exquisite dining, spa, and world-class golf just steps from the legendary links course.
Highland Larder
0.6 km
Fresh Scottish seafood served with coastal charm beside Dornoch’s scenic Links Beach car park.
Meikle Ferry Station
7.1 km
Historic railway charm meets traditional Scottish fare and cozy lodging near Tain, a welcoming stop on the scenic NC500 route.
Dalmore Farm Shop & Restaurant
24.5 km
A charming Highland farm destination blending fresh local produce, home-cooked meals, and stunning views over the Cromarty Firth.
The Pier
27.6 km
A charming lakeside café in Lairg offering local produce, panoramic Loch Shin views, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Crofters
32.6 km
Coastal café in Rosemarkie offering fresh seafood, vegan options, and stunning sea views in a cozy, community atmosphere.
Strathnairn Beach Cafe
33.6 km
Family-run seaside cafe in Nairn offering fresh local seafood, stunning beach views, and a casual, welcoming atmosphere.
Sun Dancer, Bar and Restaurant
33.6 km
Charming Scottish seafood dining with stunning Moray Firth views in the heart of Nairn’s waterfront.
Spelding's Lounge Bar
33.7 km
Cozy coastal bar and restaurant with fresh seafood, live entertainment, and stunning marina views at Lochloy Holiday Park, Nairn.
IV10 Cafe Bar Deli
33.8 km
A vibrant café, bar, and deli on the Black Isle serving fresh, locally inspired dishes in a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
The Bandstand Hotel
33.8 km
Cozy seaside hotel in Nairn offering local cuisine, sea views, and warm Scottish hospitality on the scenic Highlands coast.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Jail Dornoch
0.0 km
Discover unique Scottish gifts and country clothing in a historic 19th-century jail transformed into a charming contemporary shop in Dornoch.
Simply The Best Fair Trade Gifts
0.2 km
Discover ethically crafted fair trade gifts supporting global artisans in the heart of Dornoch Retail Park.
Co-op Food - Brora - Gower Street
17.8 km
Discover the convenience of Co-op Food in Brora, the perfect stop for all your travel essentials and local products.
McRaes of Scotland
22.7 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and cashmere treasures at McRaes of Scotland, Invergordon’s premier gift shop on High Street.
Tanstar Gifts
22.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish crafts and unique souvenirs at Tanstar Gifts, a charming boutique in the heart of Invergordon’s High Street.
The Storehouse
32.7 km
Explore The Storehouse for exquisite gifts, local delicacies, and a charming café experience by the Foulis Ferry.
Nisa Local
33.7 km
Explore the charm of Nairn with Nisa Local, your go-to spot for unique gifts, local treats, and everyday essentials.
Grace Lily Lingerie
33.7 km
Discover elegant, comfortable lingerie with expert fittings at Grace Lily Lingerie, Nairn’s charming boutique for intimate apparel.
On The Upside
33.7 km
Discover unique handcrafted Scottish furniture blending traditional charm with contemporary style in Nairn’s welcoming boutique store.
In Stitches
33.8 km
Expert dressmaking and alteration services in Nairn, delivering impeccable fit and craftsmanship for every occasion.
Caora Air Mara
33.8 km
Discover authentic Highland crafts and handmade treasures at Caora Air Mara, Nairn’s beloved artisan shop.
Preloved Designer Fashion Boutique
34.0 km
Explore unique, sustainable designer fashion treasures in Nairn’s charming boutique, where style meets eco-consciousness.
Crafty Wee Birdie
34.1 km
Discover unique local crafts and heartfelt gifts in the welcoming charm of Nairn’s Crafty Wee Birdie boutique.
The Nairn Bookshop
34.1 km
A long‑standing independent bookshop on Nairn’s High Street, with a wide, thoughtful selection of fiction, non‑fiction, children’s books, and local interest titles.
Co-op Food - Nairn - King Street
34.1 km
Experience the convenience of Co-op Food in Nairn, where you can find fresh groceries, local products, and tasty snacks to fuel your adventures.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Platform 1864
7.4 km
Historic charm meets contemporary dining at Platform 1864, Tain’s beloved bar and restaurant in a stunning old train station.
The Inver Inn
9.5 km
Cozy, dog-friendly pub in Tain’s Inver village serving fresh Scottish fare with warm hospitality and scenic Highland charm.
The Fishertown Inn
22.2 km
A cozy Georgian pub in Cromarty offering exceptional food, local ales, and a warm Highland welcome on historic Church Street.
The Ship Inn
23.0 km
Experience warm Highland hospitality and home-cooked meals at The Ship Inn, your cozy retreat in Invergordon by the Cromarty Firth.
The Clubhouse B&B
33.7 km
Boutique coastal B&B in Nairn offering modern comfort, friendly service, and easy beach access for a peaceful Highland getaway.
The Union Tavern
33.7 km
A cozy Fortrose pub offering local ales, live traditional music, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere on the Black Isle.
Brackla Hotel
34.0 km
A friendly and lively bar with comfortable hotel rooms, perfect for relaxing and socializing in the heart of Nairn.
The Albert Inn
34.1 km
Cozy Scottish pub and hotel in Nairn offering exceptional steaks, warm hospitality, and a charming Highland atmosphere.
The Play House
34.2 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant nightlife at The Play House, a lively nightclub and bar known for energetic music, dancing, and social fun.
Aido's bar
34.2 km
Aido's Bar offers a cozy, friendly pub experience in Nairn with local ales, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Thistle Bar
38.8 km
Cozy and friendly bar on Forres High Street, offering affordable drinks and a warm local atmosphere every day from 11am to 10pm.
Sloe & Steady
38.8 km
Discover Forres’ cozy cocktail haven where creative drinks and a warm atmosphere blend for an unforgettable night out.
Legends
38.8 km
Lively pub with hearty fare, live weekend music, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Forres.
Braemou Inn
40.1 km
A cozy, welcoming pub and inn in Hopeman offering hearty homemade food, comfortable rooms, and a true taste of Scottish coastal hospitality.
The Snow Goose
45.1 km
Cozy up by the fire at The Snow Goose, Inverness’s charming pub serving hearty Highland classics in a warm, welcoming setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Seaforth Club
34.0 km
Experience Nairn’s vibrant social heart at Seaforth Club, where community spirit meets lively nightlife in a welcoming setting.
Xplosive Discos
34.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Xplosive Discos in Nairn, where unforgettable music and karaoke fun await every visitor.
The Ross Shire Club
39.6 km
Experience Dingwall’s vibrant nightlife with a welcoming vibe, BYOB policy, and lively social scene at The Ross Shire Club.
Private Eyes Inverness
46.0 km
Experience Inverness’s vibrant nightlife at Private Eyes, where stylish decor meets great music and a welcoming party atmosphere.
Johnny Foxes
46.3 km
Experience the heart of Inverness nightlife at Johnny Foxes - a delightful pub with cocktails, local flavors, and live music.
The Piano and Whisky Bar Inverness
46.7 km
Experience the enchanting blend of live piano music and exquisite whisky at The Piano and Whisky Bar in Inverness, a perfect night out.
Moray Jazz Club
49.1 km
Discover the vibrant live music scene at Moray Jazz Club in Elgin, where talented musicians create unforgettable performances in an intimate setting.
Shmelgin
49.3 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Nepal at Shmelgin, Elgin's premier Nepalese restaurant, known for its warm atmosphere and delicious dishes.
Joannas Nightclub
49.4 km
Lively and casual nightclub in Elgin’s town centre, offering weekend late-night music, dancing, and social vibes in a friendly local setting.
Diceys
49.4 km
Experience the lively ambiance and local brews at Diceys, Elgin's favorite pub for relaxation and entertainment.
Zed Bar
49.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Zed Bar in Elgin, where great drinks and lively atmosphere await every visitor.
The Elgin Club
49.6 km
Discover the cozy charm of The Elgin Club, a local bar where visitors can unwind and connect in the heart of Elgin.
The Muckle Cross - JD Wetherspoon
49.6 km
Experience Scottish hospitality at The Muckle Cross, a cozy pub in Elgin offering hearty meals and a wide selection of drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
Ionic Bar
49.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Ionic Bar in Elgin, where local flavors and friendly faces create unforgettable experiences.
Purple Nightclub
67.0 km
Experience Buckie’s vibrant nightlife at Purple Nightclub, the ultimate destination for dancing, live music, and unforgettable late-night events.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly