Bodmin Jail
Book now from £18.50 per adult
Looking for things to do on a rainy day in Bodmin, Cornwall?
If so, then a visit to Bodmin Jail is a must-do!
This family attraction is an experience that kids and grownups will never forget. And with the guaranteed lowest-price tickets that you'll find online, you can't go wrong!
Whether you're local to Cornwall or you're visiting this stunning county, there's always a good chance of a bit of rain. And if you're wondering what to do in Bodmin when it's raining, we think Bodmin Jail is one of the best wet weather attractions you can visit.
The dark history of Bodmin Jail
Built in 1779 for King George III, Bodmin Jail has played an crucial role in Cornwall’s history. Explore and discover this infamous jail and learn about its dark beginnings.
As with most old prisons, Bodmin Jail has a dark history. 55 executions took place within its formidable walls, for crimes such as murder, rape and stealing. Eight of these were women. Most of these executions were viewed by the public, and thousands would travel specially to witness the hangings.
Immerse yourself in Cornwall's dark history in the new Dark Walk with state of the art theatrical effects that bring some of the grimmest stories vividly to life.
Where will the Bodmin Jail Experience take you?
Journey through Bodmin Jail with your family and uncover the stories of the past.
The Bodmin Jail Experience includes:
The Dark Walk - The ‘Dark Walk’, the first of its kind in Cornwall, uses theatrical effects and the latest technology to transport visitors back to Cornwall’s murky past.
Retold for 21st-century audiences, the haunting cinematic visual experience will tell stories of smuggling, mining and the everyday hardships facing Cornwall’s poorest, including tales from infamous prisoners
The Naval Wing - face a cold walk along into the jail's original Naval Wing, getting a first-hand look at what the dreary days and nights behind bars were really like.
The Administration Block - delve into the fascinating background of the people who served, worked and lived at Bodmin Jail, with hidden stories and myths of Cornwall, Bodmin and the historic jail building from an operational perspective.
The Last Moments - there's a chill of the condemned as the path follows the last footsteps of the 55 prisoners as they were led to the hanging pit. The only fully-working Victorian Hanging Pit in the UK is a time for real reflection.
Sounds pretty amazing, right? We think it's about time you booked your tickets to Bodmin Jail now.
Have fun and remember, be good!
Heritage Guided Tour - Bodmin Jail - Best Price Tickets
Let the knowledgeable guides take you on a frightful trip into the dark secret history of Bodmin Jail...
Ghost Walk - Bodmin Jail - Best Price Tickets
Embark on a terrifying trek while keeping an eye out for the many ghosts that are said to haunt Cornwall when you go for a Ghost Walk with Bodmin Jail
A Christmas Carol at Bodmin Jail - Tickets on Sale
It's the tale we all know and love, but told like never before. Visit Bodmin Jail's immersive re-telling of A Christmas Carol. Discount code WEB2023
How to get here
Bodmin Jail is located just a couple of minutes from the town centre and can be found either by Sat Nav or by following the brown tourism directional signs once you reach Bodmin.
Sat Nav please use PL31 2PL
CAR
There are a number of car parks available locally:
Camel Trail Car Park - PL31 2NR
Please allow for a five-minute walk
Berrycombe Road Car Park - PL31 2NP
Please allow for a seven-minute walk
Dennison Road Car Park – PL31 2LL
Pay and display, short stay car park with 62 spaces. Please allow for an eight-minute walk
Priory Car Park – PL31 2DQ
Priory Car Park is a pay and display car park for approximately 150 cars with additional spaces adjacent to the Football Club. Please allow for a 14-minute walk
Fore Street Car Park – PL31 2DB
Pay and display with both long and short term car parking. Please allow for a 16-minute walk
BUS
The local bus route will not take you directly the jail, but it will drop you off in Bodmin Town; an easy 10-minute walk away. We recommend that you check bus times with First Group before your visit. Please note that buses are only frequent in high season.
TRAIN
Bodmin Parkway is on the mainline through Cornwall and is situated four miles outside of Bodmin Town. You will need to catch a bus or arrange a taxi for the journey from station to jail/Bodmin Town. To check for the latest train times and to plan your journey, please visit Trainline.
BIKE
The jail is situated along the popular Camel Trail cycle route which runs from Padstow, through Wadebridge to Bodmin Town centre. You'll find the jail at the end of the trail! Please note there are limited secure bike racks at the jail.
- Jail shop
- Toilets - one accessible WC is available in the Naval Wing level after the main AV area
- Courtyard Restaurant
- The Jolly Tavern
- Estimated duration to see all of the attraction is 1.5-2 hours
- Assistance dogs only
- Recommended minimum age for children is 8+
- Accessibility - if you are photosensitive and can have seizures caused by light, please be aware parts of this attraction may be unsuitable for you
- Most of the attraction is accessible for wheelchairs but please note: the existing building has some narrow, original doorways that are 75cm wide. This should accommodate standard size wheelchairs and conforms to building regulations for existing buildings. However, visitors with wide wheelchairs should contact the attraction before visiting to discuss individual needs
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