Batty About Bats: A Half-Term Adventure at Bodmin Jail
This February half-term, take a wild turn and discover the mysterious world of bats at Bodmin Jail. With two-thirds of Britain’s bat species recorded at the jail, there’s no better place to learn about these incredible nocturnal creatures while exploring one of Cornwall’s most historic and atmospheric locations.
A Haven for Bats
Bodmin Jail is more than just a historic site—it’s a vital sanctuary for some of Britain’s rarest bat species. Seven species, including the Common Pipistrelle, Brown Long-eared, and the elusive Lesser and Greater Horseshoe bats, have made the jail their home. These remarkable animals roost in the abandoned passageways and corridors, emerging at dusk to hunt in the surrounding area.
The Horseshoe bats, in particular, are among the rarest in Britain, their numbers having declined dramatically over the last century. Bodmin Jail proudly provides a safe habitat for these endangered creatures, even constructing a specialist bat house designed to offer a secure and thriving environment for the colony.
Batty About Bats – A Half-Term Special
From 15th-23rd February, Bodmin Jail invites families, wildlife enthusiasts, and curious minds to Batty About Bats, a fun and educational event exploring the fascinating lives of these misunderstood creatures.
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Learn about the different bat species at the jail and their essential role in the ecosystem.
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Discover how these tiny hunters use echolocation to navigate in complete darkness.
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Find out how Bodmin Jail is helping to conserve their population for future generations.
Included with self-guided entry, this is the perfect activity for children and adults alike, offering a blend of nature, history, and hands-on learning in a truly unique setting.
Bats, Myths, and Legends
For centuries, bats have been shrouded in myth and mystery—often unfairly! But did you know that bats don’t get tangled in your hair and that there are no vampire bats in Britain? Instead, they play a crucial role in controlling insect populations, with a single pipistrelle bat eating more than 3,000 insects in one night!
As darkness falls, keep an eye out—you might just catch a glimpse of them darting through the corridors of the jail or foraging near the car park.
More to Explore This February
While visiting Bodmin Jail for Batty About Bats, why not take a walk on the darker side of history?
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Broken Hearts Guided Tour (8th-23rd February): Delve into tragic tales of love, loss, and betrayal with our award-winning guides.
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Broken Hearts Ghost Walk (Thursdays & Fridays, 8th-23rd February): Experience the jail’s eerie corridors by lantern light and uncover its most haunting love stories.
Join Us This Half-Term
This February, go batty for nature and history at Bodmin Jail. Whether you’re looking for an educational family day out or an unusual way to experience Cornwall’s past, Batty About Bats is a must-see event.
Book your tickets now and step into the shadows of Bodmin Jail for a half-term adventure like no other!
Book Now