Creepy journey back in time inside jail-themed former town nightclub

The entrance to a former iconic Elgin nightclub is one you might have walked past countless times in the town centre.

But you may have wondered what the Jailhouse site looks like now, after years of being open to the elements.

We gained exclusive access to the former home of the go-to nightspot for locals during the 1990s.

In July 1998 fire engulfed the club, forcing it to close.

The venue designed with the theme of an American prison opened for only 18 months, but it certainly made an impression.

I was born three months later, so never set foot in the nightclub which was renowned for its cage.

After hearing about people’s memories over the years, I walked down the same corridor which was packed with clubbers lining up on Friday and Saturday nights in its heyday.

Most people recalled how at midnight, somewhat bizarrely, a dummy would be placed in a fake electric chair and “fried”.

The most striking thing on my visit, it still remains despite the site being open to winters over the years.

The former venue could be one of the buildings to be demolished as part of the South Street redevelopment.

In December, Moray Council, development partners Robertson Property Limited and UHI Moray revealed the plans which included the redevelopment of the former Junners toy shop, the Newmarket Bar and the Jailhouse nightclub.

The Moray Growth Deal is supporting elements of the project, while £18.3 million Levelling Up Fund cash will also contribute to the redevelopments.

Homes, a business enterprise hub for new and growing businesses, and additional units for shops were included as part of the vision.

LOCKED DOWN: The entrance to the former Jailhouse nightclub in Elgin, which was based on an American prison.

Wall decorations and drinks prices from a different era.

The macabre fake electric chair is still there.