One of Cornwall’s most historic sites is set to reopen, following an £8.5 million redevelopment. The Bodmin Jail attraction now features a brand new ‘Dark Walk’ experience. The unveiling of the new feature marks the biggest attraction opening in the South-West region this year.
Using state-of-the-art technology and the latest in theatrical effects, the Dark Walk will treat visitors to an immersive and interactive discovery of Cornwall’s most haunting histories. The new attraction will transport visitors back to the 18th century, where they will hear the tales of smuggling, mining, and the everyday hardships of the jails most infamous prisoners.
Guests will also have the chance to immerse themselves in the courtroom scene of three real-life prisoners, walk in the footsteps of the wardens and inmates along the original jail corridors, and go behind the bars for a taste of life as an 18th-century prisoner.
The Bodmin Jail is also home to the only working execution pit in the country, and guests will be able to delve into the myth of the terrifying ‘Beast of Bodmin.’ The prison was first constructed in 1779 for King George III, and has played an important role in Cornwall’s history ever since.
“The Bodmin Jail attraction is a real celebration of the history and heritage of the area and shines the light on the people and events that shaped the town that we know and love today. I can’t wait for locals to experience this exciting new chapter in the history of Bodmin Jail,” said general manager Martin Lyall.
Self-guided tours of the new attraction will also be available upon reopening, set out in timed entry slots in regular intervals throughout the day. In-depth guided tours will also be on offer, with both heritage and paranormal options, as well as an all-night After Dark Experience. The attraction will reopen on October 1 at a reduced capacity to enable social distancing rules to be adhered to.
Locals are being offered the chance to experience the attraction first, in an exclusive free preview before it officially reopens in October. 500 complimentary tickets for the week commencing September 7 will be available to those living in the PL31 postcode, on a first-come-first-served basis.
