Discover the Top 5 Abandoned Places in Cornwall: explore eerie, historic locations perfect for urbex enthusiasts and lovers of mystery.
Cornwall, famous for its rugged coastlines, ancient mining heritage, and picturesque countryside, also hosts a variety of abandoned places that tell stories of its past. From old mining sites and haunted mansions to forgotten coastal villages, these places offer a fascinating look into Cornwall’s history. Here are 5 of the most captivating abandoned places in Cornwall for history lovers and urban explorers.
1. Botallack Mine
Located on the rugged cliffs of the Cornish coast, Botallack Mine was once a thriving tin and copper mining site during the 19th century. Abandoned in the 20th century, the remaining engine houses and old chimneys stand against dramatic seascapes, making for an atmospheric and haunting scene. The mine’s skeletal structures clinging to the cliffs evoke the grit and peril of Cornwall’s mining past and offer a picturesque view of Cornish history.
2. Roche Rock
Roche Rock is a mysterious granite outcrop with the ruins of a 15th-century chapel built right into the rock face. Abandoned centuries ago, this site is known for its eerie atmosphere and local legends, including tales of hermits and ghostly monks. The combination of natural rock formations and decaying stone architecture gives Roche Rock a haunting, otherworldly appearance that has captivated visitors for generations.
3. Holywell Bay Chapel and Cave
Located on the North Cornwall coast, Holywell Bay is famous for its picturesque beach and sand dunes. Within a nearby cave lies the remains of an old chapel and a natural holy well that was once believed to have healing powers. Abandoned centuries ago, the site is accessible at low tide, revealing rock formations, old stone carvings, and remnants of ancient religious ceremonies, all set against the eerie backdrop of the cave.
4. Bodmin Jail
Originally built in 1779, Bodmin Jail was Cornwall’s main prison for over a century. It held criminals, smugglers, and even political prisoners until its closure in 1927. The jail, now partially restored but still filled with abandoned and decaying sections, is rumored to be haunted. Its empty cells, dark hallways, and stark stone architecture offer a chilling glimpse into Cornwall’s penal history and make it a popular destination for ghost hunters and history enthusiasts.
5. Carwithenack Manor
Carwithenack Manor, an old and now abandoned estate, is shrouded in local legend and mystery. Left to decay over time, the mansion’s empty halls, overgrown gardens, and broken windows create an atmosphere of faded grandeur. The manor’s haunting appearance and secluded location have made it an ideal spot for photography and local lore, attracting those interested in Cornwall’s architectural history and forgotten estates.
