English 
Bodmin Jail
Highlights
- Uncover the dark history of Cornwall’s Bodmin Jail
- Take a self-guided tour of the jail’s Dark Walk
- Hear tales of the gruelling conditions faced by the infamous inmates
- Learn all about the UK’s only fully working hanging pit
For single tickets select Standard Self-Guided Tour
Inclusions
What's Included:
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What's Excluded:
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- Once booked, this tour cannot be cancelled but may be amended 48 hours before travel date.
- This activity is wheelchair friendly.
- Dogs are not allowed.
- This activity is recommended for children aged 8 and over.
- Filming and photography are not allowed in the attraction.
Description
Built during the reign of King George III in 1779, Bodmin Jail was one of the first modern prisons in the UK. It had individual cells, segregated male and female areas, hot water and prisoners were paid for their work. It played an important role in Cornwall’s dark history with 55 executions taking place here — eight of which were women. The hangings were witnessed by thousands of people, many travelling specifically from other towns.
Unlock the secrets of Cornwall’s past with The Dark Walk. This haunting cinematic visual experience will transport you back in time where you’ll hear tales of smuggling, mining and everyday hardships facing the county’s poorest.
Get a sense of what life behind bars was really like as you explore the jail’s original Naval Wing. See the grimy cells, learn all about the harsh prison punishments and tales of child criminals and infamous prisoners.
What’s more, follow in the footsteps of the 55 prisoners that were hanged as you discover the only fully working Victorian Hanging Pit in the UK.
Schedule
Address: Berrycoombe Road, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL31 2NR
For single tickets select Standard Self-Guided Tour