THE JAMAICA INN

THE HAUNTING MYSTERIES OF JAMAICA INN: GHOSTS, LEGENDS AND DARK HISTORY UNVEILED

FEATURED ON THE PARANORMAL PORTAL UK PODCAST

Also available on other major podcast platforms

The Jamaica Inn, steeped in centuries of history and mystery, is the perfect location for those seeking spine-chilling experiences. Nestled on the windswept Bodmin Moor, this inn has long been associated with ghostly legends, smuggling tales, and eerie encounters. Its shadowy corridors and creaking floorboards create an atmosphere ripe for haunting experiences, inviting brave souls to delve into the supernatural and uncover the secrets that linger within its walls.

THE HISTORY BEHIND THE JAMAICA INN: A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

If you've been fortunate enough to visit the Jamaica Inn in Cornwall, you might be surprised to learn that this historic inn sits at over 900 feet above sea level. Before 1776, the only sights to behold would have been the wild moorland and a former Roman track that had meandered across this misty terrain for nearly two millennia.

The Man Behind the Inn: Captain John Broad

The existence of the Jamaica Inn owes much to one man: a former mariner named John Broad. His blood, sweat, and determination laid the foundations for what we now know. Interestingly, the hamlet's name derives from his venture, initially called Boldventure, which later became Bolventor.

Broad's life took a tragic turn when his wife, Mary, passed away three months after the birth of their second child. Left to care for a small child and a baby, Broad was often away at sea for extended periods, relying on family to look after his children.

Though it was common for former sea mariners to run inns, it remains uncertain if this was initially Broad's plan, as his story unfolds with more twists and turns than a gripping detective series.

The Land and Its Tenants

In 1769, an act was passed to repair and widen roads leading to Bodmin, specifying several routes to be constructed. However, no surviving paperwork or documents from that era remain. We do know that the old A30 was the main road running through the moor, creating potential income streams that Broad might have recognised, possibly through connections to certain landowners from his seafaring days.

Fast forward to around 1776, and two leases were agreed upon for land in Bodmin Moor. Cornish tenancy differed slightly from the rest of the country. One area of Bodmin Moor, referred to as Toborough or Trewint Moor, was under shared ownership. Thomas Wills of Cardiham owned one half, while James Scawen Esq of Maidwell in Northamptonshire owned the other. The Scawens had strong ties to Cornwall, descending from an ancient Cornish family that owned land across the region.

Broad’s relationship with James Scawen is particularly intriguing. Scawen, a merchant and politician, may have had business dealings with Broad in the past. On 12 August 1776, Wills signed two leases, one of which granted part of his land to Thomas Hawke—a relative of Broad. Strangely, Mr Hawke signed his lease straight over to Broad. Was this due to Broad being away at sea or a family arrangement to support his new life? We'll never know.

At the same time, Broad negotiated with Scawen to lease his share of the land adjacent to Wills’s. What astonishes is that Broad, at his own expense, enclosed 20 acres of moorland to create fields for farming. Recently a local farmer remarked on the considerable effort this would have required, stating it would need a lot of labour and considerable funds, especially during that time.

The Enigmatic Captain

Why did Broad undertake such an arduous project? It’s a question that invites curiosity. Broad also constructed a large dwelling house, stables, and haylofts, paying a yearly rent of 5 shillings to Scawen, with a lease known as a lease for lives—lasting 99 years or for as long as three named individuals lived. Broad named himself and his sons, James and John.

By 1784, the farmhouse had transformed into an inn. Broad expanded his holdings, acquiring more land and constructing additional buildings, such as a smithy and accommodations for farmhands. While it would be easy to assume he profited from smuggling, the evidence remains elusive. Why choose such a remote location? Did his ties with Scawen influence this decision?

The Naming of the Inn

For years, it was believed the inn was named after members of the local Trelawny family, two of whom served as Governors of Jamaica. However, historical evidence suggests otherwise. The name may stem from Broad's frequent voyages to the West Indies, particularly Jamaica, or perhaps from James Scawen's connections to the island. Rumour has it that smuggling might have also played a role, as Broad sought to avoid taxes on imported goods.

Despite its unusual name, the Jamaica Inn has become iconic. Many speculate that numerous smuggling operations may have originated from the inn or that goods were delivered there.

The Road to Success

Broad would have made more money by positioning himself closer to the sea, so was this relocation a carefully planned decision? From 1785, the first mail coaches began using the route, establishing the Jamaica Inn as an ideal spot for changing horses and taking refreshment before continuing their journeys. While it’s impossible to definitively determine what transpired behind the inn's walls, consider this: How did Broad afford the land and construction of the farmhouse?

Notably, James Scawen never compelled Broad to sign the tenancy, suggesting a deeper relationship, perhaps from Broad's work for him. Although there are no tunnels beneath the Jamaica Inn, the presence of both of Broad’s sons running inns indicates that smuggling routes were established, allowing money to flow freely from all walks of life.

Broad passed away in 1798, unaware that by 1812, both of his sons would also be deceased, with the widow of his youngest son continuing until 1829. His legacy, however, had vanished. To illustrate, in 1776, there were twenty acres; by 1829, that number had ballooned to 1,529 acres. What could have financed such expansion? It certainly wasn’t just the farm or the inn.

A New Era

Into the 1880s, tenants were interconnected by blood or marriage, maintaining the dual identity of the Jamaica Inn as both a farm and a hospitality venue. The moor became a sought-after location for the middle class, with shooting parties frequenting the inn, hiring rooms, horses, and hunting dogs. With the rise of the Temperance movement, the Jamaica Inn was affected significantly, prohibiting alcohol until 1950 when, after four attempts, the inn regained its licence.

The story of the Jamaica Inn is a fascinating blend of maritime history, personal tragedy, and community evolution. Today, it stands not only as a testament to Broad's tenacity but also as a landmark steeped in mystery and folklore. Whether you’re drawn in by the tales of smugglers or the inn's literary fame, the Jamaica Inn continues to capture the imagination of all who visit.

DAPHNE DU MAURIER

Jamaica Inn gained its literary fame when it was featured in Daphne du Maurier's novel of the same name, published in 1936. The book tells the story of Mary Yellan, a young woman who travels to the inn to confront her aunt and becomes embroiled in the dark world of smuggling and danger. Du Maurier's vivid descriptions of the inn and its surroundings helped solidify Jamaica Inn's reputation as a place steeped in mystery and foreboding.

Many of you may know the story, but it’s always worth recounting, especially since not many are aware of what transpired during Daphne Du Maurier's second visit. For her first visit, cast your imaginations back to November 1930, a particularly bleak time on Bodmin Moor. It was common for unexpected mists to rise, causing the Jamaica Inn to vanish like a flame being blown out. During this visit, Daphne du Maurier and her friend, Foy Quiller Couch, were staying overnight at the inn (some reports suggest she stayed in room 4). One afternoon, as they ventured out, they lost their way when the rain began to fall and darkness descended like a heavy cloak.

Seeking shelter, they found a derelict barn where they could rest. Foy then suggested that they trust their horses to guide them back to the Jamaica Inn. Remarkably, the horses instinctively made their way across the moor, and in the distance, the lights of the inn shone brightly. Many believe that this experience sparked the beginning of Daphne's famous story.

However, it was the following year that proved even more significant. Upon her return to the inn, she met the local vicar, Charles Percival Triplett of Altarnun Church, who came for afternoon tea. During their time together, he shared captivating stories that would leave a lasting impression on her. The seed had been sown, and in 1936, her book was published, marking the start of an enduring legacy that continues to resonate to this day. The rest, as they say, is history.

The novel's popularity led to increased interest in the inn, and it became a destination for fans of du Maurier’s work. Today, visitors can explore the inn's connections to the author through various exhibits and memorabilia, further enriching the experience of those who come to stay.

The story by Daphne du Maurier was adapted into several notable TV versions. One prominent adaptation is the 1939 film directed by Alfred Hitchcock, which offers a unique interpretation of the original narrative. Another adaptation is the 1983 television movie starring Jayne Seymour as Mary Yellan, which brought a distinct take on the character and the story's gothic elements. The BBC produced a more recent adaptation in 2014, starring Jessica Brown Findlay, which offers a fresh perspective on the tale. Each adaptation showcases different aspects of the narrative, contributing to the enduring popularity of the story.

THE GHOSTS OF JAMAICA INN

Jamaica Inn, famed for its atmospheric history, is home to numerous accounts of the paranormal. Visitors and staff alike have reported eerie events and ghostly presences, fuelling the inn’s reputation as one of the UK’s most haunted destinations. From spectral figures in period attire to unexplained noises in empty rooms, each sighting adds to the mystery that permeates this historic location.

The Jamaica Inn’s history of reported sightings dates back as early as the infamous story of the Man on the Wall, an alleged murder victim seen sitting in eerie silence on the inn’s grounds in 1911. Since then, many spirits have joined the cast of ghostly figures rumoured to inhabit the inn, each adding a unique layer to the rich paranormal lore.

The Ghost on the Wall: A Haunting Legend

Legends surrounding Jamaica Inn include a chilling tale of a murder that took place over a century ago. According to the story, a mysterious man was once drinking at the Inn’s bar when an unknown voice called him outside. Other patrons watched him leave, only to find that he never returned, leaving behind nothing but his drink resting on the counter.

The following day, the man’s lifeless body was discovered on the moor, but his killer had vanished without a trace. This incident left everyone at the Inn speculating about the identity of the murderer and the true nature of the strange man.

In 1911, a mysterious figure resembling the murdered man was seen sitting on a wall outside Jamaica Inn. Curious guests attempted to interact with him, but he remained silent and motionless before vanishing. This sighting has fuelled speculation about his identity and whether he could be the spirit of the unfortunate man who met a tragic end on the moors. The eerie encounter deepens the intrigue surrounding the Inn's ghostly lore.

To this day, guests claim to hear footsteps echoing up and down the inn’s corridors and outside the passage to the bar. Many believe these sounds belong to the spirit of the murdered man, forever returning to finish his drink at the place where his life ended so suddenly. Known simply as "Jack," this ghostly figure has even been seen sitting at a certain table, now famously called "Jack’s Table.

A Personal Account from the Grose Family

In 1955, a woman born at Jamaica Inn shared her family’s eerie experiences. Her father, Mr. Grose, was the manager, and her mother offered a haunting reflection: “The Jamaica Inn is a lovely warm place during the day, but when night falls, it turns into something else.”

One of the earliest recorded paranormal incidents, beyond the infamous “Man on the Wall” sighting, involved serving staff who witnessed a man in a green cap. The man reportedly walked through a private lunch when the inn was closed to the public, passing calmly through what is now the reception area and out the door, disappearing without a trace.

Many guests also reported a strange occurrence: they would wake up to find their clothes neatly folded by an unseen visitor during the night. This often led them to ask the reception if any staff members had entered their rooms to tidy up.

The Smuggler

Among the spectral figures sighted over the years, the “Man in the Tricorn Hat” stands out. Dressed in a tricorn hat and weather-beaten black coat, he is thought to be the ghost of a smuggler from centuries past, one who may have met a grim end in the rugged landscape of the Bodmin Moors. His tall, ominous figure is described with a high collar, concealing much of his face, which only adds to his unsettling presence.

Witnesses often describe him as agitated, slipping through closed doors and walls as if bound to a restless search. He has been reported in various parts of the inn, including the main bar and outside Rooms 4 and 5, perhaps retracing the paths of his former life as a shadowy figure of the moors.

The Crying Woman and Baby

In Room 3, visitors have encountered a crying woman, believed to be Mary Downing. Historical accounts suggest that Mary was a young woman who sought recognition for her illegitimate son with the married landlord Thomas Dunn in the 1830s. Desperate to secure a future for her child, she took her case to court, but the societal stigma and personal struggles of the time left her in a state of despair. The sorrowful energy she brings often leaves guests feeling uneasy, with reports of hearing faint cries when no one else is present. Small fingerprints have been found on the mirror, reinforcing the belief that a child’s spirit also lingers in this room. The sound of a crying baby has also been reported from Rooms 3 and 7.

Room 6 and the Mysterious Black Mist

In 1977, a guest staying in Room 6 had a terrifying experience around 2 a.m. She awoke, feeling an intense cold, and heard someone attempting to open her door by pressing the latch down repeatedly. Despite her efforts to wake her husband, he remained fast asleep. Suddenly, a black mist, shimmering with coloured lights, seeped under the door and moved towards the bed. Described as resembling a Star Trek-like beam of swirling light, the figure halted near the bed before retreating back under the door. The guest vowed never to stay in Room 6 again, though she continues to visit Jamaica Inn yearly.

The Ghostly Children: Elizabeth and Tommy

Room 5 has been linked to children’s spirits, with Elizabeth and Tommy among the most commonly mentioned. This room was previously rumoured to host a spirit named “Hannah,” though recent insights suggest that Elizabeth and Tommy are more likely the ones making their presence felt. Elizabeth, often seen in Victorian attire, has also been spotted wandering the inn’s corridors and gift shop. Guests in Room 5 have reported experiencing a gentle touch on their legs while they sleep, along with the unsettling discovery of a child's wet footprints on the floor, even though no children are staying in the room. These occurrences add to the eerie atmosphere, leaving visitors with a lingering sense of the children's playful yet ghostly presence.

Gandalf the Pilgrim

Dubbed "Gandalf the Pilgrim" due to his resemblance to the iconic character, this mysterious figure was first sighted in Room 4. The team at the Jamaica Inn initially kept these reports quiet to avoid encouraging fabricated sightings. He has since been seen by multiple guests not only in Room 4, but also in the lower restaurant and in Room 34.

Activity in new wing

Even the recent extension to the inn, built in the last ten years, has started to attract attention for its own paranormal activity. Rooms 23, 27, and 34, located in the newer wing of the inn, have recently gained notoriety for sightings of Victorian-era spirits, knocking sounds at odd hours, and reports of shadowy figures moving in the darkness.

Other activity at the Jamaica Inn

The inn’s reception area is said to host a caped figure who silently passes the front desk. Staff have also reported unsettling events in the adjoining snug, with glasses mysteriously falling and shadowy figures appearing in the background. Strange sounds have been reported in room 4, including foreign voices that may be remnants of the old Cornish language. Guests in this room frequently sense a feeling of being watched, while toys and books in the gift shop are often found scattered on the floor. Staff also experience strange sounds and sensations, including ponytails being tugged as if by unseen hands, all contributing to the eerie atmosphere that envelops the inn.

With countless new sightings catalogued annually, Jamaica Inn has maintained its reputation as one of the most haunted locations in the UK. In recent times, some phenomena have seemingly ceased to be reported. One notable sighting involved an American airman, whose spirit appears to have finally moved on. Additionally, the eerie sounds of horse hooves and cart wheels echoing through the courtyard—two of the more famous reports— that have faded into silence. Guests and paranormal investigators have observed that each area can become a “hotspot,” shifting from week to week. This unpredictability only adds to the allure, making Jamaica Inn a true enigma for ghost hunters and sceptics alike.

From the mischievous Elizabeth to the unsettling presence in Room 6, Jamaica Inn’s spectral residents appear deeply intertwined with the inn’s history, leaving their imprints for new witnesses to discover. Whether you come for the history, the thrill of a haunted stay, or simply a good story, the inn offers a glimpse into a world where the past and the supernatural collide.

THE INN TODAY

Today, Jamaica Inn continues to operate as a popular hotel and restaurant, offering a unique blend of history and hospitality. Visitors can enjoy hearty meals, explore the surrounding moors, and stay overnight in the historic haunted rooms.

Guests can explore the Jamaica Inn Smugglers Museum, which features a fascinating collection of artifacts from the inn's storied history, including items from the smuggling era and memorabilia linked to Daphne du Maurier. This immersive experience allows visitors to engage with the inn's rich past while enjoying the atmospheric surroundings. Additionally, guests can visit the shop for unique souvenirs and treasures related to their stay.

At the Jamaica Inn, guests can embark on thrilling ghost hunts that delve into the inn's haunted past. With expert guides from the Jamaica inn paranormal team, you'll explore the inn's eerie rooms and hidden corners, hearing tales of its ghostly residents. Equipped with paranormal investigation tools, you'll have the chance to experience the supernatural first-hand in one of the UK’s most famously haunted locations. Whether you're a sceptic or a believer, these ghost hunts offer a unique opportunity to connect with the inn's legendary spirits.

BIG THANK YOU TO THE PARANORMAL TEAM AT THE JAMAICA INN

We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Karin Beasant and the entire team at the Official Paranormal Team of the Jamaica Inn for their invaluable assistance and expertise. Their thorough fact-checking and wealth of information greatly enriched our article, making it a true collaboration. We appreciate the time and effort they dedicated to sharing their knowledge with us, helping to shed light on the haunting history of this iconic location.

THE JAMAICA INN, SCPUK THOUGHTS

Jamaica Inn is more than just a picturesque spot on the Cornish moors; it is a place steeped in history, mystery, and the supernatural. From its origins as a coaching inn to its literary fame and ghostly encounters, Jamaica Inn continues to fascinate those who seek to uncover its secrets.

I have visited there several times, enjoying the bar, restaurant, and museum, but I haven’t spent the night yet. With the moors as its backdrop and its rich history, Jamaica Inn has a magnetism that draws you in, Creating a cosy yet mysterious atmosphere. You can almost touch its past, and it feels as if the ghosts of its history are walking among you, just out of sight. We plan to carry out an investigation at the Jamaica inn soon with South Coast Paranormal UK.

The blend of real-life tragedies and ghostly hauntings lingers long after your visit. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a fan of Daphne du Maurier, or simply looking for a unique getaway, a visit to Jamaica Inn promises an unforgettable experience with some amazing local ales and food, where the past and present intertwine, and the echoes of history may just whisper to you in the dark.

So, if you're feeling brave, consider spending a night at this storied inn, where the line between history and the supernatural blurs. With the veil between worlds at its thinnest, you might just find yourself sharing a chilling moment with the restless spirits of Jamaica Inn.