Locked Up in Luxury: Our Immersive Stay at Bodmin Jail Hotel

Tucked away in the heart of Cornwall, the Bodmin Jail Hotel offers a stay with serious character.

Once a formidable 18th century prison, this Grade II listed building has been transformed into a luxurious boutique hotel that still keeps a lot of its original features – think thick stone walls, barred windows, and a moody, atmospheric vibe.

Each of its 70 rooms is actually made from three former cells and now boast plush king sized beds, freestanding tubs, and underfloor heating. There's also a gorgeous restaurant in the old chapel where you can tuck into modern Cornish dishes. And if you’re into history (or spooky stories), you can explore the on site attraction and learn all about the jail’s darker past. 

If you’re looking for one of the most unique hotel experiences in Cornwall, the newly launched 'Prisoner Experience' at Bodmin Jail Hotel should be at the top of your list. We were invited to try out this immersive stay, and it turned out to be a luxury hotel break with a thrilling twist.

A Stay Inside Cornwall’s Historic Prison Hotel

On arrival, we were shown to our “cell” on the second floor of this historic prison turned luxury hotel. The family room we stayed in cleverly combined three original cells to create one spacious, beautifully designed space. With a king sized bed and a sofa bed, it’s ideal for families.

The room design strikes a balance between authentic and modern. Yes, the small arched windows are original, but smart lighting and light toned décor made the room feel welcoming, not oppressive as I had imagined. The exposed brickwork adds to the unique aesthetic, while modern amenities—such as tea and coffee making facilities, a fluffy robe, slippers, and ample storage—make it feel every inch the luxury boutique hotel.

The bathroom deserves its own spotlight. Featuring a freestanding bathtub, double rainfall shower, his and hers sinks, and a full-wall mirror, it’s the kind of bathroom you don’t want to leave.

One of the most impressive features of Bodmin Jail Hotel is how it blends heritage with cutting edge design, nowhere is this more evident than in its glass roofed atrium. The hotel’s two main wings are now topped with sleek, continuous rooflights, flooding the previously dark corridors with natural light. These rooflights were cleverly designed to echo the original Victorian style windows, also meeting heritage requirements. The glass elevator has been fitted to the outside of the building, and the contrast between the original stonework and the sleek glass and steel framework creates a real wow factor as you approach the building.

An Immersive Prison Experience with a Twist

Our themed hotel experience began when we were instructed to meet at a designated location, where we were greeted by our “warden.” From there, the immersive elements kicked in, blending history, drama, and storytelling in a way that was both engaging and informative.

We explored the jail’s haunting past on a guided tour, including the original women and children’s wing (where children as young as six were once imprisoned) and the eerie naval wing—considered the most haunted part of the building. We even visited the condemned cell where prisoners awaited execution.

Dining Behind Bars – Literally

Before dinner, we enjoyed a welcome cocktail in the lovely mezzanine lounge, overlooking the chapel restaurant below. The space is beautifully designed, with a glass wall and acoustic panelling allowing it to serve as a private dining room for upgraded packages.

Dinner was served “inmate style” in the main chapel dining room, with no menu choices and no frills, just two rows of long tables reserved for the “prisoners.”

The starter, a creatively presented mushroom soup that resembled gruel, was full of flavour and surprisingly delicious.

The main course was braised Cornish beef and potato pie with mash, vegetables, and bread. This came served on a metal tray with separate compartments and we finished with chocolate brownie and ice cream. 

The theatrical setting added to the experience and the food itself was well executed and hearty, more gastropub than prison canteen.

A Ghost Tour to End the Night

The warden led us on a final tour down to the hotel’s haunted basement, where ghost stories flowed freely and the atmosphere turned properly chilling. It was cold, dark, and undeniably spooky, perfect for those who love dark tourism or paranormal travel experiences.

Experience Packages: From Prisoner to Governor

There are three fully immersive experience levels available:

• Prisoner Package: Check in as Georgian prisoner and enjoy 'inmate' dining with limited menu options, continental breakfast is served the following morning
• Warden Package: Enjoy a three course gourmet dining experience in The Chapel and non-alcoholic refreshements in your cell. Wake up to a hearty full English breakfast the next day.
• Governor Package: The ultimate luxury experience with a seven course tasting menu paired with fine wines and enjoyed in the Governors private chamber. You are greeted with champagne and canapes and can enjoy a bespoke breakfast, prepared by the Executive chef the following morning.

Each package includes a luxurious cell stay, Governors drinks reception, entry to the Bodmin Jail Museum and the history of the building tour, with introduction to paranormal experience too.

Each offers a different way to enjoy the stay, depending on how immersive (or indulgent) you want your experience to be.

Bodmin Jail Attraction: History Comes Alive

The following day, we explored the Bodmin Jail Experience, an award winning attraction adjacent to the hotel. With immersive exhibits, dramatic soundscapes, and deep dives into Bodmin’s past, it’s a must visit for history buffs and families alike. We particularly liked learning more about the stories we had heard the previous evening.

Final Thoughts: A Truly Unique Hotel Stay in Cornwall

Our stay at Bodmin Jail Hotel was an unforgettable blend of luxury accommodation, immersive storytelling, and historical intrigue. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend in Cornwall, a family adventure, or a memorable corporate retreat, this hotel offers something completely different.

It’s not every day you get to sleep in a prison cell, especially one with luxury linens, designer lighting, and a freestanding bathtub.