Some places hold their secrets. Others refuse to let them rest. Standing isolated on the windswept expanse of Bodmin Moor, Jamaica Inn has witnessed centuries of travellers, smugglers, secret dealings and mysterious disappearances. Built as a coaching inn in the 18th century, its remote position made it an ideal stopping point for travellers crossing the moor. But its isolation also made it an ideal location for Cornwall's notorious smuggling trade. The inn became internationally famous through Daphne du Maurier's 1936 novel, which immortalised its sinister reputation. Today, Jamaica Inn is associated with reports of unexplained footsteps, shadowy figures, strange sounds and encounters with its alleged resident spirits. During this exclusive investigation, we invite you to explore the atmosphere of this remarkable building, investigate its reported paranormal hotspots and see whether the stories surrounding Jamaica Inn are more than folklore. When the doors close and the night settles over the moor, what might still be waiting inside? Join Time Travel Encounters for a night of history, investigation and the unexplained. Historical background - 1750: The inn's origins are generally dated to this period, although some later historical research suggests a later construction date. - 18th century: It developed as a coaching stop on the route between Bodmin and Launceston. - Smuggling era: Its isolated location made it ideally situated within the network of illicit trade across Cornwall. - 1770s: The building underwent alterations and became known as Jamaica Inn, a name associated with the Trelawney family's Jamaican connections. - 1930: Author Daphne du Maurier stayed at the inn after becoming lost on Bodmin Moor. - 1936: Her novel Jamaica Inn brought the location worldwide attention. - Today: It operates as a hotel, restaurant, museum and paranormal investigation venue.
01 / Travel & arrival
- Hotel Reception
- 1800
- By car Jamaica Inn is directly off the A30 on Bodmin Moor, approximately halfway between Bodmin and Launceston. - From Exeter: follow the A30 west towards Okehampton and Launceston. - From Bodmin: follow the A30 east towards Launceston. - Follow the brown tourist signs for Jamaica Inn.
- Free on site
- Public transport: The 178 bus serves the Jamaica Inn stop, connecting the Bodmin and Launceston area. The 176 also serves the nearby area. Check late-night and return services carefully, particularly for a 3am finish.
02 / Facilities
- Toilets on site: yes
- Heated areas: yes
- Seating available: yes
- Base room / rest area: yes
- Charging points: no
- Overnight stay: yes
- Indoors & outdoors
- Available to buy
- Refer to venue website
- Patchy
- Room included in booking
- Designated area outside
- Bar on site
03 / Accessibility
- Suitable for wheelchair users: no
- Step-free access to main areas: yes
- Accessible toilet: yes
- Blue badge / accessible parking: yes
- Assistance dogs welcome: no
- Hearing loop / written briefing: no
- Carers / companions go free: no
- Rest seating during vigils: no
05 / Safety & what to bring
- First aider on site: yes
- Event insured: yes
- Photo ID required: yes
- Booking confirmation
- Photo ID
- Torch
- Spare torch batteries
- Charged mobile phone
- Power bank
- Drinking water
- Packed food / snacks
- Warm layers
- Hat and gloves
- Sturdy closed-toe footwear
- Personal medication
- Inhaler / prescribed emergency medication
- Mobility aids
- Change of clothes
- Sturdy closed-toe footwear required
- No high heels
- No open-toe shoes
- Warm layered clothing
- Long trousers
- Hat and gloves
- Attend the safety briefing
- Follow team and venue instructions
- Remain with your assigned group
- Use marked routes only
- No entry to restricted areas
- Do not investigate alone
- Keep exits and escape routes clear
- Carry a torch when moving
- Do not run
- Do not touch exposed wiring
- Do not climb structures
- Do not move venue furniture
- No open flames or candles
- No smoking indoors
- No alcohol or recreational drugs
- Report hazards immediately
- Report accidents and near misses
- Tell the team if you feel unwell
- Agree assisted evacuation needs before arrival
- Do not approach water edges
- Respect wildlife and other visitors
- No weapons
- No unauthorised electrical equipment
- Uneven ground and stairs
- Confined spaces
- Cold and unheated areas
- Loud or unexpected sounds
- Long periods of darkness
- Discuss heart conditions with your healthcare professional
- Discuss pregnancy with your healthcare professional
- Discuss mobility needs before booking
- Extended standing or walking
- Outdoor weather exposure
- Leave a session if distressed or unwell
- No physical contact without consent
06 / Booking terms
- Adults only — 18+
- Full payment required at booking
- Cancellation requests must be sent to the team
- Outdoor activities are subject to safe weather conditions
- Meet the advertised minimum age
- Provide accurate guest details
- Provide an emergency contact reachable during the event
- Disclose relevant access needs in advance
- Attend check-in and safety briefing
- Respect the venue and its occupants
- Respect other guests and team members
- No guarantee of paranormal activity
- Follow consent rules for photography / recording
- Private sessions require team approval
- Late arrivals must contact the team
- Unsafe or abusive behaviour may end participation
