Bodmin Jail, located in Cornwall, England, is a historic former prison built in 1779. Known for its grim past and notorious inmates, it’s now a popular tourist attraction offering visitors a glimpse into its dark history – and plenty of ghostly legends. This is your ultimate guide to visiting Bodmin Jail, updated for 2026!
Bodmin Jail in Cornwall had long been on my list of must-visit spooky places before I finally visited in the autumn of 2024. But thanks to its haunted history and fascinating paranormal ties, I couldn’t help but return time and time again – making it a firm favourite dark tourism attraction of mine.
My first visit was so much fun and completely exceeded my expectations in terms of spookiness. From ghost tours to After Dark Tea, we had the best time in Bodmin, exploring everything the jail has to offer.
Bodmin Jail isn’t just a former prison with a dark past and a couple of ghost stories. Far from brushing off its ghostly past, the attraction puts the paranormal front and centre, with dedicated exhibits and spine-tingling ghost experiences you can bravely volunteer for.
And that’s even before we get started on the Bodmin Jail Hotel!
If you’re looking to plan a visit to one of Britain’s most iconic haunted jails, here’s everything you need to know about Bodmin Jail.
What Is The Bodmin Jail Attraction?
Bodmin Jail is a former prison in Bodmin, Cornwall, renowned for its dark and fascinating history. Built in 1779 as the UK’s first reformed prison, it operated for over a century, housing criminals and witnessing 55 public executions. It closed in 1927, when much of the building fell into ruin. In 2021, after a £65 million investment, it reopened as a luxury hotel and immersive tourist attraction.
Today, visitors can explore the Bodmin Jail attraction and experience the Dark Walk – an immersive journey through eerie corridors, infamous inmates, and chilling legends. Those brave enough can also stay overnight in the Bodmin Jail Hotel, sleeping in the very cells that once held 18th-century prisoners.
Fun fact: Bodmin Jail sits directly on St. Michael’s Ley Line, a mystical alignment stretching from St. Michael’s Mount through Glastonbury Tor and Avebury, all the way to the east coast of England. Could this account for some of the jail’s paranormal experiences?
A Brief History of Bodmin Jail
The origins of Bodmin Jail trace back to 1777-1778, when philanthropist John Howard (then High Sheriff of Bedfordshire – my home county, of all places!) toured prisons across Britain and Ireland. Appalled by the grim conditions he encountered, Howard advocated for major reforms in prison design and management, which ultimately led to the creation of Bodmin Jail.
The jail was constructed by Sir John Call, a military engineer, and opened in 1779. At the time, it was considered revolutionary – light and airy, with piped-in fresh water and segregated accommodation for men and women. That said, children were also imprisoned here, with the youngest recorded inmate being just six years old.
As crime rates rose, the jail was deemed unfit by 1850, despite attempts to expand the original structure. A complete overhaul began, and by 1861, a new 220-cell prison had been built, offering more modern conditions.
One of the most notable milestones in Bodmin Jail’s legacy is that it became the first British prison to hold inmates in individual cells.
From 1868, executions stopped being held in public, and in 1909, Bodmin Jail saw its final execution – the last ever in Cornwall. The prison was officially decommissioned and closed in 1927.
Over the following decades, the site went through many reincarnations. Between the 1960s and 1980s, it served as a repair workshop, furniture store, badminton court, and even a nightclub – before eventually becoming a museum and, later, the world-class attraction it is today.
Inmates at Bodmin Jail
Bodmin Jail has housed some truly notorious inmates and disturbing criminals throughout its long history. Among the best-known is Elizabeth Osborn, who was just twenty years old when she was publicly hanged for setting fire to her neighbour’s corn. Another infamous case is Sarah Polgrean, who poisoned her husband by mixing arsenic into his butter.
One of the most chilling stories is that of Selina Wadge, a mother who threw her young son Harry down a well. Her case is particularly well-documented, and the jail shares the harrowing details as part of its exhibition. Visitors can also view a complete list of those executed at Bodmin Jail during its operational years.
Not all crimes were so grim, though. Some inmates were imprisoned for offences that seem shockingly minor today – like forging a £2 note, stealing wheat, or sheep stealing (a crime committed by three different people on separate occasions).
Of course, the jail’s darkest moments are hard to forget. Among the most horrific cases were Elizabeth Commins, who murdered her baby by beating its head against a crib, and James Holman, who killed his wife by striking her with a clothes iron and forcing her head into an open fire.
No wonder Bodmin Jail is haunted…
Bodmin Jail is also featured on The Morbid Map, where I’ve gathered haunted prisons, dark history sites and other atmospheric locations across Britain.
Is Bodmin Jail Haunted?
If you’re wondering ‘Is Bodmin Jail Haunted?’ – the short answer is yes! Bodmin Jail is rife with paranormal activity. There’s even an entire exhibition dedicated to it, including a running list of every reported experience. Ask any member of staff and they’ll likely have their own stories to share too.
Because we booked a ghost tour, we were lucky enough to hear about a few of the more unusual occurrences. I won’t give everything away, but there were two stories that really gave me the heebie-jeebies.
One is about a ghost frequently seen on the stairs between the naval wing and the administration block. He’s known as The Watcher and he isn’t spotted every day, but when he is, it’s always during the last tour of the day. So if you’re planning a visit, I’d recommend timing your visit accordingly!
The second story takes place in the original hanging pit. This part of the jail is eerie enough on its own, especially when you remember how many people were executed there. What happens quite regularly is that the bells in this area ring early in the morning – long before the jail opens and when no staff are present. The bells are also behind a locked gate, so not easily accessible.
The creepy part is that every time the bells have rung (and echoed across Bodmin), a member of staff checks the execution board displayed near the pit. The bells never ring at random. They only ring on the anniversary of someone’s execution.
Creepy stuff.
Did we experience anything paranormal when we visited? Despite exploring the jail both during the day and late at night on an intimate and brilliant tour, we didn’t see anything. That said, a few lights in the Judgement Room flickered on and off in an odd, unexplained way. And there were a couple of moments where I felt like something touched my hair – though I wouldn’t be surprised if that was just wishful thinking.
All in all, it’s more than enough to convince me I’ll be returning for a full-blown ghost investigation sometime soon.
My Review of The Bodmin Jail Experience
I loved my visit to the Bodmin Jail Experience. So much so that after my first visit, it immediately shot up into my top five spooky things to do around the UK – possibly even taking the top spot!
Though the jail doesn’t seem that large on arrival, you could easily spend hours here if you want to take it all in. The first thing we experienced was the Dark Walk – a fantastic immersive introduction not just to Bodmin Jail, but to Bodmin itself. It featured a mix of 4D cinema and special effects to bring its dark history to life, and I absolutely loved it.
Fun Fact: The ‘judgement’ scene in this experience actually takes place in what used to be the morgue or hospital wing. No surprise, then, that it’s full of paranormal activity.
After that, we entered the naval wing and began the self-guided part of the attraction. You can explore individual cells and learn what life was like for prisoners here in the 18th and 19th centuries. This section leads you upstairs, through the administration block, and into the paranormal zone and condemned cell.
There’s a lot to take in – they’ve clearly put a huge amount of effort into highlighting the jail’s supernatural history.
One of the information boards reveals that 42 visitors have passed out due to paranormal activity inside the jail, and 17 (and counting!) have experienced submersion – which is a form of possession, though not necessarily like the dramatic versions you see on TV.
Another board details specific paranormal hotspots: male staff seen in mirrors in the gatehouse, a priest often seen walking through the corridor near the paranormal room, and much more. Chilling.
They’ve recently expanded this section to include a deep dive into the history of the paranormal, along with a brilliant folklore area. It covers everything from the Beast of Bodmin and the history of witchcraft to magical artefacts like the Hand of Glory and how poison was used in notorious crimes in 19th-century Britain. There’s even a curtained-off space where you can try your hand at a traditional Victorian séance.
I loved the short video about the rise of paranormal tourism in the UK and in popular media, featuring clips from Danny Robins and other well-known ghost hunters.
Only… if I may ask Bodmin Jail, please use some of my clips next time! I’m your biggest fan 🙏
What really impressed me about Bodmin Jail is how openly they embrace the paranormal. They don’t shy away from it – they investigate it. Speaking to the staff, you can feel how passionate they are about both ghost hunting and investigating the truth. Nothing is exaggerated for show, and they’ll happily debunk false claims when necessary.
After all, this is the very place where Derek Acorah was famously caught faking it. The cell where it happened? It’s now a public toilet. I am delighted to boast that I have peed in the Most Haunted toilet!
Bodmin Jail Ghost Tour Review
We also booked a ghost tour with Carl, who was incredibly passionate and knowledgeable. He was charismatic, made the tour fun and engaging, and we even got to pick his brains the following night when we returned for a VIP event. Carl shared loads of behind-the-scenes insights and stories about the jail.
What I loved most was that he was a complete sceptic before working there. He originally attended an event with his sister, had so many paranormal experiences that it completely changed his outlook, and eventually got a job at Bodmin Jail. Since then, he’s dedicated more and more of his time to learning about the paranormal.
A ghost tour is also a great way to explore the jail in a more intimate setting. While you don’t get as much time to linger in each area as you might on a day visit, you do get taken through all the major parts of the prison, and you have the bonus of being able to chat to an expert throughout. It was really eerie and spooky exploring the jail after dark, dimly lit with that chilling atmosphere.
What’s New at Bodmin Jail in 2026
Since my last visit, a lot has been added to the jail – and I loved exploring all the new features this time around. The paranormal section has expanded greatly – whereas before it was just a few small rooms, it’s now jam-packed with not only the paranormal history of the jail but with the history of the supernatural overall.
There are also two new free audio tours to take: the history audio tour and the paranormal audio tour. Though the paranormal one was a little glitchy when I visited, it’s absolutely fantastic and really adds an extra layer of atmosphere during your visit. Since listening, I’ve realised there are so many more reports of ghostly goings-on here than I originally knew!
Finally, there’s also a smaller Curiosities gift shop that has opened on-site. While the main shop sells Bodmin Jail souvenirs and books, this one is more tailored to paranormal enthusiasts and stocks witchcraft books, ghost-hunting gear, and even the jail’s very own new collection of mini ghosts.
Guide to Visiting Bodmin Jail
Because there’s so much on offer at Bodmin Jail, I thought it would be helpful to include a quick guide to visiting. It can feel a bit overwhelming trying to decide what to do here, especially as some events only run on certain days.
What to do at Bodmin Jail
There’s loads to do at Bodmin Jail. First and foremost, take a self-guided entry so you can explore the jail at your own pace. This ticket also includes access to the Dark Walk, a brilliant immersive experience with 4D cinema effects that bring Bodmin’s haunted history to life.
Historic Walks & Ghost Tours
If it’s the history of the jail that interests you, I’d recommend booking a guided tour. This is an in-depth walkthrough of the jail’s past, covering everything from daily prison life to crime and punishment during the Georgian and Victorian eras. It’s also suitable for the whole family. Guided tours run daily from £30 per person.
If you really want to get spooky, book a ghost walk. We did the ghost tour the night before we visited the jail properly, and I thought it was such a fun way to do things. It meant we already knew some of the more haunted spots when we returned for our self-guided visit. That said, you might prefer to explore the jail first and then book the ghost walk later to get your bearings. Ghost walks run on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays from £30 per person.
Throughout the year, Bodmin Jail also runs themed seasonal tours. You can choose from:
- Broken Hearts tour in February
- You’re Pulling My Leg tours during the Easter holidays
- Go Darker tours in October
- Naughty or Nice tours at Christmas
Ghost Experiences
After Dark is a public paranormal investigation held inside Bodmin Jail. Over four and a half hours (after dark), a paranormal host will guide you through the jail, share chilling stories, and teach you investigative techniques. You’ll also have opportunities to carry out your own ghost hunts. After Dark runs every Friday and Saturday at £50 per person.
In October, Bodmin Jail also runs additional spooky events such as:
- Lights Out! – live actors and jump scares inside the jail
- Late Entry events
- Go Darker Heritage Tours
- The Haunted Gallery
We were lucky enough to visit Bodmin Jail three times over the course of two days, and each experience felt completely different. Whether it was a tour, a ghost walk, or just exploring on our own, the atmosphere changed every time — and we left feeling like we’d uncovered something new with each visit.
My advice? Take a look at their calendar in advance and plan your visit based on the experiences that interest you most. In general, Thursdays through Sundays seem to offer the most when it comes to ghost tours, paranormal investigations, and other spooky events – but various things pop up throughout the year.
On one of our visits, we also got to explore the Haunted Gallery – a series of ghost photographs from around the world displayed throughout the naval wing of the jail. And honestly, what better place to view some of the most chilling and famous ghost photos than inside a haunted prison?
Where to Stay in Bodmin
Bodmin Jail is located in Bodmin, Cornwall. For those of us more centrally based in the UK, it might be a bit of a drive – so I’d recommend staying a couple of nights nearby and combining your visit with other things to do in the area. It’s a beautiful place to visit – Bodmin Moor offers some truly great hikes, and it’s also an International Dark Sky Landscape, making it ideal for stargazing.
You can even stay at the Bodmin Jail Hotel – a luxurious and historic hotel based inside the actual former jail. It’s a great choice if you want the full experience, as some of the rooms are haunted. In fact, each room is a converted jail cell and includes a plaque inside telling you about the inmate who once lived there.
The hotel blends sleek luxury with atmospheric nods to its eerie past, and there’s plenty of information about the jail woven into the décor. Even if you don’t plan to stay, I’d recommend popping in for lunch at the very least. We were lucky enough to enjoy a Halloween afternoon tea here, which I’d definitely recommend. It was a fun and whimsical experience – and the food was genuinely tasty. We also got to have a nosy around the hotel afterwards, which was a nice bonus.
For something more budget-friendly, I’d recommend the world-famous Jamaica Inn, about a 15-minute drive from Bodmin Jail. It’s more than just a hotel – there’s also a museum about its smuggling history, plus a gift shop, farm shop, bar and restaurant. Many of the rooms – and public areas – here are also haunted.
We wanted a fully spooky weekend away, so we stayed at the Jamaica Inn for two nights whilst exploring Bodmin and visiting the jail.
Getting There & Parking
Bodmin Jail is located right in the heart of Bodmin and is well signposted throughout the town. The jail has its own car park just around the corner, but you’re travelling by public transport, local buses can drop you off in Bodmin town centre. The nearest train station is Bodmin Parkway, which runs throughout Cornwall and is about a 30-minute bus ride from the town.
Accessibility
Bodmin Jail is wheelchair accessible, with lifts and ramps available throughout much of the attraction. However, some of the original cells still have narrow doorways, which may be a tight squeeze for some wheelchairs or mobility aids.
Assistance dogs are welcome, and the attraction is generally suitable for the whole family – though you may want to use your own judgment when it comes to the paranormal exhibits and ghost tours, especially with younger children or more sensitive visitors.
FAQs About Visiting Bodmin Jail
If you’re planning to visit this historic jail, here are some frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip.
Why is Bodmin Jail famous?
Bodmin Jail is most famous for its dark history and paranormal activity. It’s also the site of Cornwall’s last public execution, and when it first opened in 1779, it was considered a revolutionary prison – far more humane than most of its time.
Is Bodmin Jail haunted?
I’ve covered this extensively above, but yes – Bodmin Jail is widely considered one of the most haunted prisons in Britain. Some of its most well-known spirits include The Watcher, Mister Get Out, Mister Shuffles, the Pipe Smoker, and more.
My personal favourite? Whatever haunts Cell 4. During the 2019 renovation, builders reported such disturbing experiences inside that the cell was sealed up. Visitors have since reported being shoved, feeling like they’re being strangled, and even seeing the door open by itself.
Am I the only one who wishes they’d open it back up for paranormal investigations…? No? Just me?
Who was executed at Bodmin Jail?
A total of 55 people were executed at Bodmin Jail, including Elizabeth Osborn, Sarah Polgrean, Matthew Weeks, Selina Wadge, and the Lightfoot brothers.
How long does it take to go around Bodmin Jail?
A self-guided tour typically takes around 1–2 hours, though I’d recommend allowing at least two hours if you’re really into dark tourism or want to take your time. Guided tours vary in length depending on the type.
Do you have to pre-book Bodmin Jail?
You don’t have to pre-book a self-guided entry, but I’d definitely recommend it – especially during weekends or holidays. Events, ghost tours, and special experiences should be booked in advance, as they can sell out quickly, and tickets are cheaper when pre-booked online than on the door.
Final Thoughts on Bodmin Jail
If you’re a dark tourist, a paranormal enthusiast, or just someone who enjoys a bit of spooky fun, Bodmin Jail is an absolute must-do. It’s both historic and harrowing in parts, and genuinely spooky and fun in others.
The Dark Walk is really immersive, and the self-guided tour around the naval wing is eye-opening and fascinating when it comes to jail life. The best part – for me – is without a doubt the paranormal section: a dedication to all that’s supernatural not only here in this jail but around the world. And the staff’s enthusiastic approach to the paranormal makes it all that more better.
Would you be brave enough to visit Bodmin Jail? Or have you already been and had a spooky experience of your own? Let me know in the comments!
Bodmin Jail
www.bodminjail.org
Bodmin Jail, Berrycoombe Road, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL31 2NR
£16.50 per person for self-guided entry (on door), or from £13.50 when pre-booking online
There are toilets on site, a cafe and a small gift shop. The closest car park is at Berrycoombe Car Park, a five minute walk away.
*Please note, I was kindly offered free entry to Bodmin Jail attraction. There is no obligation to post about my experiences. This review is entirely honest and unbiased.
Hi! I really enjoyed reading your article, it was fascinating to learn more about the jail; especially with it’s modern developments and paranormal involvement 😄 I’m going to be writing my own article documenting the location, and I was wondering if I’m ok to use some of the images you’ve shared here? I live a distance from the jail, and your images are really good quality 😄
Hi Daniel, thanks so much! You’re very welcome to use my images, just please credit me and link back to me/my post about Bodmin Jail. Thanks for asking! And I hope you make it there yourself one day. Please do pop back and share your article here once it’s live!