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Edinburgh Castle Ruins (Jamaica)

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Historical site
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Edinburgh Castle Ruins (Jamaica) (Jamaica)

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The ruins of Edinburgh Castle in the Pedro District of St. Ann are the site of one of Jamaica's most chilling historical narratives. Built in the mid-18th century by Lewis Hutchinson, a Scottish immigrant known as the "Mad Master," the structure was a two-story stone house with two diagonal corner towers. Hutchinson was Jamaica's first documented serial killer; he used his isolated position on the road between the north and south coasts to ambush and murder lone travelers. He reportedly disposed of the bodies in a deep natural sinkhole on the property, now known as "Hutchinson's Hole." After years of terror, he was captured while trying to escape the island and was publicly hanged in Spanish Town in 1773. Although the building was never a true castle, its name and architecture reflected Hutchinson's Scottish roots. Today, only the thick limestone walls remain, standing as a dark monument to the lawlessness and brutality that could exist in the remote interior during the colonial era.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C252526262727282828282726
Rain mm473039511361259412215119311958

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Edinburgh Castle ruin is a historic open-air monument that can be visited. Visitors can wander through the remains of the house, but the interior has not survived.
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Typical hours
The site is freely accessible during daylight hours with no fixed opening times. For a safe visit, it is best to come during daylight.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the area, with the crumbling walls providing atmospheric subjects. Due to the dilapidated condition, caution is advised, especially for close-ups.
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Time needed
Allow about 45 minutes to an hour for a thorough exploration of the ruins and surroundings. You can invest more time if you wish to learn more about the history.
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Combine with
The ruins are near Port Antonio, where you can also visit the famous Blue Mountains. Reach Falls is another recommended addition for a day trip.
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Getting there
The ruins are accessible by car via a gravel road; a four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended. From Port Antonio, you can reach the site in about 20 minutes.
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Insider tip
Take a local guide who can tell you the eerie tales of Lewis Hutchinson. Sturdy footwear is essential due to the uneven terrain.

Geography

Coordinates
18.28800, -77.10800

Facts

  • Built in the 1760s by Lewis Hutchinson, a notorious Scottish immigrant.
  • The site of numerous murders committed by Hutchinson, the "Mad Master."
  • The structure was a fortified two-story house with two diagonal towers.
  • Victims' remains were thrown into a 100-foot deep sinkhole on the grounds.
  • Hutchinson was apprehended and executed in Spanish Town on July 16, 1773.
  • The ruins are located in the rural Pedro District in the parish of St. Ann.
  • Considered one of the most haunted and macabre sites in Jamaican history.
  • The building's design was inspired by the architecture of Scottish castles.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mount DiaboloMount Diabolo2 km · WExplore →
Fern GullyFern Gully2 km · EExplore →
Dunn's River FallsDunn's River Falls5 km · SEExplore →
Fort HaldaneFort Haldane5 km · SEExplore →
Colbeck CastleColbeck Castle6 km · WExplore →
Blue HoleBlue Hole6 km · NExplore →
Poultry Processing PlantPoultry Processing Plant6 km · WExplore →
Rio Nuevo Battle SiteRio Nuevo Battle Site8 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Edinburgh Castle Ruins (Jamaica) (2)

Moneague College📍 landmark

Educational institution in Moneague, Jamaica, focused on teacher training.

Moneague📍 landmark

Inland town in Jamaica, surrounded by hills and farmland.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the dark history of this place?
It was the home of Lewis Hutchinson, Jamaica's first known serial killer.
Can the ruins be entered?
Yes, but caution is advised as the grounds are overgrown.
Where exactly is Edinburgh Castle located?
In the hinterland of St. Ann, in a remote area called Pedro District.
Is it a real castle?
No, it was a small two-story house with two circular towers.
Is there a memorial site there?
No, there is no official memorial for Hutchinson's victims.
Edinburgh Castle Ruins (Jamaica): where is it located?
Edinburgh Castle Ruins (Jamaica) is located in Jamaica.
Edinburgh Castle Ruins (Jamaica): what is there to see?
Highlights include Moneague College, Moneague.
Edinburgh Castle Ruins (Jamaica): when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Edinburgh Castle Ruins (Jamaica): why is it worth visiting?
The ruins of Edinburgh Castle in the Pedro District of St.
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