Bolventor (Jamaica Inn)

A traveller’s rest has existed in this foreboding spot since 1412, with the current inn dating back to 1750, after which it developed its reputation as a base for smugglers, highwaymen and general “rogues of the highroad”.

This theme was developed into the novel by Daphne du Maurier ‘Jamaica Inn’, who happened across the spot after being lost on horseback in deep fog somewhere close to the route that brought you here.

Whilst disappointing by day, due to it’s popularity with visitors to the smuggling museum, at night, with the lack of anything else around the inn, the place regains its solitary and sultry atmosphere.

Rest weary legs by smoky fires in hidden corners of the bars with a few other souls still seeking some respite from the elements and the moor.

The inns name is said to be a reference to its considerable trade in rum, but whatever the origin, weary travellers using the high route between Launceston and Bodmin have sought sanctuary here for centuries having failed, like you, to cross the full expanse of wild and treacherous moor before nightfall.

Sunsets and sunrises are fantastic up here, but you may not sleep completely undisturbed in between. A favourite of the ‘Most Haunted’ TV series, apparitions said to have been seen here include a malicious highwayman, an anguished young mother and her baby, and the ghost of a young smuggler said to have been murdered and who sits on the wall in the courtyard looking angrily back at the inn.

For those surviving the night you can record your efforts so far by signing the Smugglers Way Logbook at reception.