Travel bucket list idea:
Bodmin Jail [ghost hunting]
Bodmin, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)
Last updated: 28 April, 2024
This former prison, built in the 18th century, once housed some of the most notorious criminals in British history behind its imposing walls. Today, is oiffers a fascinating glimpse into the dark and mysterious world of Georgian and Victorian crime and punishment, with real-life tales of intrigue, scandal, and daring escapes.
Sign up for one of the award-winning 2-hour heritage tours and hear all about arsenic poisoners, arsonists, murderers and the mutinous hanging crowds. Or try a 4-hour night-time paranormal investigation i.e. ghost hunt (18+ only).
If you’re really keen, you may even consider staying on-site at the 70-room, 5-star boutique hotel, housed within the jail’s walls.
Especially for under 12s
For younger visitors over 7, there’s a captivating 1.5-hour ‘Junior Jailers’ tour every Saturday morning, where kids will learn about the jail and inmates’ dark history in a more kid-friendly way.
Logistics
Price from: £19
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 8+
When: All year around
Getting there & doing it
The jail is just outside the town of Bodmin. There’s parking nearby, or a local bus will drop you a 10-minute walk away. Bodmin Parkway is the nearest station but it’s a taxi ride from there.
If you don’t want to join a tour, you can buy a self-guided ticket. Allow around 2 hours for a visit.
When to do it
The jail is open all year round, seven days a week.
