Jamaica Inn
Bolventor, Launceston PL15 7TS
The Jamaica Inn in Bolventor, Cornwall, is an iconic 18th-century coaching house made world-famous by Daphne du Maurier’s legendary 1936 novel of the same name. Standing high up on the wild, atmospheric expanses of Bodmin Moor, this historic Grade II listed building dates back to 1750 and carries a deep, gritty association with Cornwall's historical smuggling trade. Positioned precisely midway between Launceston and Bodmin, it serves as a highly popular stopover directly off the A30 highway.
🚐 Motorhome & Campervan Stopover Guide
The inn operates a straightforward, practical overnight scheme in its spacious parking complex.
Fees & Registration: Overnight motorhome and campervan parking costs £10 per night. You must pay and register your vehicle registration number at the main hotel reception desk immediately upon arrival.
The Pitch: Vans are instructed to park on the large, flat tarmac coach bays located within the commodious main car park.
Facilities & Utility Constraints: This is a strictly off-grid transit stop. There are no electric hookups (EHU), no freshwater refilling taps, and no chemical toilet or grey wastewater disposal facilities on-site.
Access: Clean public toilets are accessible inside the main building during the pub's standard operating hours. Because of its proximity to the A30, you should expect minor background road noise overnight.
Campsite Alternative: If you require full hookups and proper drainage facilities, Colliford Lake Holiday Site is a dedicated campground located just a 5-minute drive down the road.
🍽️ Pub Atmosphere & Dining
The interior expertly preserves its historic smuggling heritage, creating a deeply cozy refuge from the moody moorland weather.
The Vibe: Rich with character, featuring authentic low oak beams, uneven floors, wood panelling, and roaring open log fireplaces. The Smuggler's Bar is famously steeped in local ghost lore, adding a uniquely eerie charm. The bar area is entirely dog-friendly.
The Food: The kitchen serves hearty, traditional British pub classics. Stands-out items include their acclaimed steak and ale pies, local burgers, and fresh fish and chips. They also offer an extensive cooked breakfast menu starting from 7:30 AM.
Beverages: The bar features a well-curated selection of regional Cornish real ales, local ciders, and a diverse range of single malt whiskies.
📍 Local Information & Surrounding Area
Bolventor provides a rugged base for exploring Cornwall’s natural inland wilderness.
On-Site Smugglers' Museum: Located right inside the inn complex, this fascinating museum showcases authentic artifacts, audio-visual history on Cornwall’s hidden coves, and the room where Daphne du Maurier drafted her famous novel. There is also a farm shop and retail gift shop open from 9:00 AM.
Bodmin Moor Walks: The inn is surrounded by phenomenal walking trails. Dramatic granite landmarks like Rough Tor and Brown Willy (Cornwall's highest point) are easily accessible for day hikers.
Cardinham Woods: Situated a 15-minute drive southwest, these extensive Forestry England woodlands offer excellent, level walking trails and dedicated mountain biking tracks.
Bodmin Jail: Located 10 miles away in nearby Bodmin town, this historic, repurposed 18th-century prison offers immersive, theatrical tours focusing on Cornwall's dark penal history.
