Cornwall
Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)
Destination guide
A region of craggy cliffs, sheltered creeks, glorious sandy beaches and quintessential villages – rich in local life, pagan legend and delicious, locally-made food and drink.
Travel bucket list idea:
Bodmin, Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)
Bucket List Experience
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.
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.
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.
The jail is open all year round, seven days a week.
Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Cornwall, United Kingdom (UK)
Destination guide
A region of craggy cliffs, sheltered creeks, glorious sandy beaches and quintessential villages – rich in local life, pagan legend and delicious, locally-made food and drink.