Halloween plans washed out? Bodmin Jail has an indoor answer

The rain has had the final say on a lot of half-term plans this week. Behind the granite walls of Bodmin Jail, though, the pumpkins are still lit and the Trick or Treat Trail is still running, with no wellies required.

The Bodmin Jail Museum has confirmed its Halloween programme is going ahead as planned, after the weather of the last couple of days threw plenty of family weekends up in the air. And with Kids Go Free running throughout October, it could be a cheaper option than many expect.

Indoor Halloween fun still going ahead

The team at the jail said they know a lot of families will now be looking for alternative things to do over the weekend and half-term, and wanted to remind people that the indoor Trick or Treat Trail and Haunted Gallery are both still on.

A spokesperson for Bodmin Jail said: “We absolutely love Halloween here at the Jail, and we’d hate to see the weather spoil it for everyone. We’re hoping we can offer another option for families whose plans have changed.”

The activities run until Saturday 31 October, so there is still time to fit in a visit once conditions settle.

The Trick or Treat Halloween Trail

Aimed at families visiting during half-term, the trail runs every day until 31 October, from 9.30am to 5pm. It leads younger visitors through the jail with games, puzzles and riddles, uncovering some of Cornwall’s darker history on the way.

Finish the trail and there is a prize to claim from the gift shop. It is included with Self-Guided Entry.

The Haunted Gallery

Open throughout October from 9.30am to 4pm, The Haunted Gallery looks at famous hauntings from around the world, paranormal phenomena and the ghostly stories linked to Bodmin Jail and beyond.

Themed cells and atmospheric displays explore the folklore, history and beliefs behind our fascination with the supernatural. Entry to the gallery is also included with Self-Guided Entry.

Kids Go Free and a local discount

Throughout October, one child goes free with every full-paying adult. The offer applies to Self-Guided Entry only and is subject to availability.

Local residents can also get 20% off, with terms, eligibility and booking information on the jail’s website.

Something darker for older visitors

For those who want more of the history, the Go Darker Guided Tour runs throughout October, with published tour times at 9.30am, 11am, 1pm and 3pm. It digs into stories of crime, punishment, executions and the people who lived behind the jail’s walls.

Ghost Walks take place every Thursday, Friday and Saturday throughout October. Recommended for ages 12 and over, they explore the jail after dark, sharing stories of reported hauntings, paranormal encounters and some of the most chilling events from its past.

Halloween after dark

On Friday 30 October, Banged Up in Bodmin Jail brings a classic ’80s Halloween party to the historic venue from 8pm until 2am. Run with Cornish favourites Jam & Meme, it promises two stages of music, mayhem and fancy-dress fun.

The jail also lists an After Dark: Halloween Special on Saturday 31 October, with availability shown on the official events calendar.

Before you set off

The jail is encouraging everyone to check the latest weather and travel advice before heading out to Bodmin, and to only travel if it is safe to do so.

Visitors are advised to book in advance. Tickets, terms and the full programme are on the Bodmin Jail events page.

The team says it is also happy to share more photos and information with anyone putting together a roundup of indoor Halloween things to do across Cornwall.