Bodmin Jail Attraction

Bodmin Jail is a family-friendly attraction with great accessibility that meets most individuals' needs. Enjoy an amazing immersive 4D experience that will walk you right through a tour and the key points of Cornwall’s proud history, from smuggling, and mining through to the mysteries of the moorland and rugged cliffs.

As well as the wonderful cultured Cornish past you will hear about the development of Bodmin Jail since it was built in 1779. At one point it was even a nightclub and famous British Magician, Paul Daniels performed there! Learn about some of the gruesome stories of the inmates and happenings from inside the walls, plus, if you are looking for something a little more exciting, you can hear about the ghosts and ghouls that are said to haunt the jail. Spooky is something children love!

Accessibility

With all flat flooring and platform lifts, most people can experience the pleasures of this attraction and even appreciate how the building once looked, in the famous Naval Wing. Most mobility aids will fit through the old doorways, even wider than normal wheelchairs. If you need to take a little break during the tour, there are some chairs dotted around to sit on but bear in mind this is a timed tour. It is likely that you will have to queue to get into the attraction as the jail is a delightful, bustling hive of activity but is something to think about if you cannot stand for too long. If you do have any specific needs we definitely recommend phoning ahead or talking to the staff at the entrance gate. They are friendly, , and helpful or chat with the staff at the entrance gate. They are approachable and try to accommodate everyone’s needs so you have the best experience possible.

CARERS GO FREE! If you have a loved one, friend, or attendant to help you around they are able to go in for free when you buy a disabled person's ticket.

As fantastic as the immersive experience is, we wouldn’t recommend the tour or this part of the attraction for some with extra sensory needs because of the flashing lighting, loud noises, and some of the surprises the 4D experience has to offer, however, this would not spoil a visit to the jail where you can roam around the outside of the buildings taking in the delightful architecture and perhaps enjoy a coffee, refreshments and a delicious snack from the restaurant which can be on the quieter side if it’s not too busy.

There is a restaurant with an outside eating area, covered dining, and outdoor heating. The main restaurant has a small flight of stone steps to enter. Lighter snacks and refreshments are available if you aren’t quite ready for a meal. There are periods when this area has quiet moments and can provide much-needed low-stimulation moments, alternatively, there is a quiet picnic area - with tables down behind the main attraction. This area has graveled flooring that may not be suited to wheelchairs.

Once you have walked through the first half of the attraction and tour, you will find yourself outside which is great for a bit of fresh air in between buildings. The snaking ramp is for everyone to use, including wheelchair users, scooters, buggies, and prams to access the next level.  There is an incline that will require a little effort to climb.

With all that in mind, you are ready to have an amazing at an awesome location! Enjoy!