Go behind bars at Bodmin Jail for a fascinating family days out in a historic building which was once used to house the crown jewels…
If you are looking for a great family day out in Cornwall which is as educational as it is fun, then head over to Bodmin Jail which was built for King George III in 1779 on the edge of Bodmin Moor.
Designed by Sir John Call, the jail was originally intended for prisoners of war and is famous for being the first British jail to hold prisoners in individual cells. During the First World War, it was used to house some of the countries national treasures including the Domesday Book and the crown jewels.
look back in time
The jail eventually closed in 1927, but the building is now used as the base for this fascinating attraction which houses countless interesting exhibitions to showcase the history of the jail and the prisoners who were detained there.
Jaunt through the various cells where you will find mannequins, historic documents and objects which will highlight the crimes of the inhabitants and what life was like for them once they were behind bars.
Please be aware that the jail tends to get very cold and there are many steps to navigate, so make sure that you wrap up warm and wear sensible shoes to ensure you can make the most of the attraction.
You may not automatically associate jails with fine cuisine, but Bodmin Jail is doing its bit to alter this with a range of food and beverages on offer in the impressive Governors Hall and the Witness Box Wine Bar.
the paranormal
On account of the public hangings and grim nature of the past undertakings which took place in the building, it is perhaps inevitable that it has become closely linked to paranormal activities. It has even recently been used as the setting for an episode of Most Haunted.
You can learn more about these paranormal events when you book yourself onto an After Dark event at the Jail where a resident medium will teach you the basics of Reiki and energy management before setting your lose on the jail over night. The event includes a 3 course meal, souvenirs and a free family pass for a day visit to the jail at a different time. You will also receive a complimentary £20 gift voucher. Take a look at the available booking slots if you are interested in one of these events.
20% discount off tickets
Bodmin Jail is just a twenty minute journey away from Piran Meadows Resort & Spa, and anyone staying at our resort can enjoy a 20% discount off the price of tickets to the attraction.
All you need to do is show your holiday park card to staff on reception when you are buying your tickets in order to benefit from this.
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