The Ghosts of Bodmin Jail: Cornwall’s Most Haunted Prison



Hidden in the rugged landscape of Cornwall, Bodmin Jail is one of the most infamous and haunted locations in the UK. Built in 1779, this imposing prison has witnessed executions, harsh punishments, and desperate souls trapped within its cold stone walls. With a reputation for ghostly sightings, eerie sounds, and chilling encounters, Bodmin Jail has become a hotspot for paranormal investigations and ghost hunters.

A Dark and Brutal History

Bodmin Jail was originally constructed as part of prison reforms under King George III, designed to house criminals in separate cells rather than the overcrowded, disease-ridden jails of the time. Despite this, the prison became known for harsh conditions, public executions, and suffering.

Between 1779 and 1909, over 50 prisoners were executed, with many of them meeting their fate on the gallows within the jail’s walls. The last execution at Bodmin Jail took place in 1909, after which the prison eventually closed in 1927. However, many believe that the spirits of the condemned still linger!

The Most Haunted Areas and Ghostly Residents

The Execution Pit

One of the most active paranormal locations in the jail is the Execution Pit, where condemned prisoners were hanged.

Visitors have reported a feeling of being watched and even feeling short of breath—as if they are experiencing the terror of those who once stood at the gallows. Some claim to hear disembodied screams and whispers in the darkness.

The Crying Woman

One of the most famous ghosts of Bodmin Jail is that of Selina Wadge, a woman convicted of drowning her young son in 1878. She was executed by hanging, and it is said that her spirit still roams the prison, weeping for her lost child.

Many visitors claim to feel an overwhelming sense of sadness in her former cell. Some have even reported seeing a shadowy female figure clutching a small child.

The Angry Prisoner

A violent male spirit, believed to be that of a former prisoner, has been known to shove, scratch, and push those who enter his cell. Paranormal investigators have reported feeling a sudden drop in temperature, hearing deep growls, and even experiencing physical touches.

The Governor’s Ghost

Even prison staff are said to haunt Bodmin Jail. The ghost of a former governor has been seen walking along the upper corridors, still seemingly patrolling the prison. Doors open and close on their own, and some visitors have heard footsteps echoing when no one else is around.

Phantom Prisoners

Throughout the jail, shadowy figures have been seen darting through the corridors and disappearing into walls. Some visitors have reported chains rattling, whispers, and even the sensation of someone brushing past them when no one is there.

Paranormal Investigations and Modern Hauntings

Bodmin Jail has been featured on numerous paranormal TV shows, including Most Haunted and Ghost Hunters International. Many ghost hunters and visitors have captured EVPs (electronic voice phenomena), unexplained cold spots, and shadowy figures on camera. In recent years, the jail has been renovated into a museum and hotel, but reports of paranormal activity have not stopped. Guests staying overnight have described unexplained noises, flickering lights, and eerie sensations in their rooms.

Would You Visit Bodmin Jail?

Today, Bodmin Jail is open for ghost tours and overnight investigations, attracting thrill-seekers eager to experience its haunted history firsthand.