Nestled in the heart of Bolventor, Cornwall, the Jamaica Inn is a historic pub and accommodation that has been standing since 1750. This iconic establishment is steeped in history and folklore, with tales of smuggling and ghostly apparitions. It’s also famous for being the setting of Daphne du Maurier’s novel of the same name. Situated on the edge of the wild and windswept Bodmin Moor, the Jamaica Inn offers a unique blend of history, mystery, and traditional Cornish hospitality that attracts visitors from all over the world.
History of Jamaica Inn
The Jamaica Inn was built in 1750 as a coaching inn – a place for travellers to rest and change horses during their journey. Its remote location on Bodmin Moor made it a perfect spot for smuggling activities. It’s said that contraband goods were hidden in the inn’s secret passages and even under the beds in the guest rooms. The inn’s smuggling history was immortalised in Daphne du Maurier’s 1936 novel ‘Jamaica Inn’, which was later adapted into a film by Alfred Hitchcock.
Attractions at Jamaica Inn
There’s plenty to see and do at Jamaica Inn. Here are some of the highlights:
The Smugglers’ Museum: This museum houses one of the finest collections of smuggling artefacts in the country. It offers a fascinating insight into the history of smuggling in Cornwall and the role Jamaica Inn played in it.
The Daphne du Maurier Memorial Room: This room is dedicated to the author who made Jamaica Inn famous. It contains a collection of her personal belongings, first editions of her books, and information about her life and work.
The Ghost Walk: Jamaica Inn is reputed to be one of the most haunted places in Britain. The Ghost Walk takes you on a tour of the inn’s most haunted spots, with tales of ghostly sightings and paranormal activity.
Accommodation at Jamaica Inn
Jamaica Inn offers comfortable accommodation with a choice of en-suite rooms and four-poster bed suites. All rooms are tastefully decorated in a traditional style, with modern amenities for a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy a hearty Cornish breakfast in the morning and traditional pub meals in the evening.
Practical Information for Tourists
Jamaica Inn is open all year round, with the exception of Christmas Day. Admission to the Smugglers’ Museum and the Daphne du Maurier Memorial Room is free for guests staying at the inn. For non-residents, there’s a small admission fee. The Ghost Walk is available for a separate charge and must be booked in advance.
Located just off the A30, Jamaica Inn is easy to reach by car. There’s plenty of free parking available on site. The nearest train station is Bodmin Parkway, about 8 miles away. From there, you can take a taxi to the inn.
Tips for Tourists
Here are some tips to make your visit to Jamaica Inn more enjoyable:
Book your accommodation in advance, especially during the summer months when the inn can get quite busy.
Don’t miss the chance to try some traditional Cornish dishes at the pub, such as Cornish pasty and cream tea.
If you’re interested in the paranormal, consider joining the Ghost Walk for a spine-chilling experience.
Bring warm clothing, as Bodmin Moor can get quite chilly, even in summer.
