What to Know about Devon House Jamaica Before You Go

Devon House, one of Jamaica’s most renowned historical landmarks, is a place filled with captivating history, architectural brilliance, and a multitude of recreational activities. Nestled in the heart of Kingston, this beautiful estate offers its visitors a unique blend of enriching Jamaican cultural experiences, mouthwatering gastronomy, and an array of shopping options.

‍The Story Behind Devon House Devon House is the architectural masterpiece of Jamaica’s first black millionaire, George Stiebel. His fortune, amassed from gold mining in South America, allowed him to build this magnificent mansion in the late 19th century. Positioned at the intersection of Trafalgar Road and Hope Road, the area fittingly became known as Millionaire’s Corner.

The mansion encapsulates a sublime fusion of Caribbean and Georgian architecture. It is adorned with a carefully curated collection of Jamaican, English, and French antique pieces and reproductions. The mansion’s impressive facade overlooks vast expanses of manicured, lush green lawns, further enhancing its grandeur.

In 1990, Devon House was declared a national monument by the Jamaica National Heritage Trust. This action was taken under the instructions of the Rt. Hon. Edward Seaga, a former Minister of Development and Welfare with responsibility for cultural affairs, who later became the Prime Minister of Jamaica.

Today, Devon House has transformed from the home of a millionaire to a popular entertainment and recreational hub in Kingston. Guests can explore the mansion, shop, dine, and unwind in this historic property.

Why Visit Devon House?

With its rich history, gorgeous architecture, and a plethora of activities, Devon House is a must-visit for anyone vacationing in Jamaica. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a shopping enthusiast, Devon House has something to offer everyone.

If you’re planning a trip to Jamaica, consider staying at an all-inclusive family resort like Beaches Resorts. With their wide range of activities and entertainment options, these resorts promise an incredible family vacation.

Exploring Devon House: Things to Do

When you step into Devon House, you step back in time. The mansion’s history, rich cultural influences, and the story of its original owner, George Stiebel, come alive as you explore its opulent rooms. The guided tour lasts about 20-23 minutes and it is a deep dive into the house’s history and architectural grandeur. But the fun doesn’t end with the house tour! You can also indulge in some shopping, enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants, or treat yourself to some ice cream.

Mansion Tours

The mansion tours are a must-do activity at Devon House. You’re free to explore the property on your own, or you can join a guided tour. A guided tour comes highly recommended, as it offers fascinating insights into the house and it’s surroundings. Knowledgeable guides narrate the rich history of the mansion, taking you through beautifully restored rooms filled with unique artifacts. Tours are available in both English and Deutsch.

Dining Options

Devon House was designated a center for gastronomy in 2017. The courtyard is home to an array of restaurants and bars offering both Jamaican and international cuisines. From simple yet delicious ice cream flavors like vanilla, mango, and coconut to the boozy Devon Stout, your taste buds are in for a treat.

Shopping

Devon House offers a wide variety of stores selling locally made jewelry, crafts, clothing, and gift items. Whether you’re looking for a unique souvenir or a piece of authentic Jamaican attire, you’re sure to find it here.

Hosting Events

The mansion and its outdoor settings are perfect for hosting events. Whether it’s an intimate dinner for two, a cocktail party for hundreds, a large banquet, or a gala, Devon House offers the perfect setting for a successful event.

Upcoming Events

While there might not be any events currently scheduled, keep an eye out for announcements on future happenings. Devon House frequently hosts expos, marketplaces, fashion shows, and more.

Restaurants and Shops

Devon House is home to several restaurants and shops. From the casual dining experience at the Commissary to the more formal ambiance at The Steak House on the Verandah, the culinary options are plentiful. Scoops Unlimited is a must-visit for ice cream lovers, an award-winning ice cream shop that offers a staggering variety of flavors. According to National Geographic, it’s the fourth-best place in the world to have ice cream! With 27 flavors to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Things Jamaican has a wide range of locally-made items.

Spa and Relaxation

Looking to unwind? The Island Rituals Spa at Devon House offers an array of relaxing treatments. Using products made in Jamaica, it’s a luxurious experience you won’t want to miss.

Weddings at Devon House

Devon House isn’t just a tourist attraction; it’s also a popular wedding venue. With its beautiful backdrop and lush lawns, it’s the perfect place for newlyweds to start their journey together.

Getting to Devon House, Jamaica

Devon House is easily accessible, especially if you’re staying in Kingston. If you’re staying outside Kingston and won’t be renting a car, consider booking a full-day trip through a tour operator like Island Routes.

The drive to Devon House from Ocho Rios and Dunn’s River is about an hour and a half and from Negril and Whitehouse, it’s approximately 3-4 hours.

What to Know Before Visiting Devon House

Operating Hours

The main house at Devon House is open Monday to Friday from 8:30 am – 8:00 pm, Saturday from 8:30 am – 7:00 pm, and Sunday from 8:30 am – 1:00 pm.

Entrance Fee

The stand-alone tour of Devon House costs approximately US$15 for adults and US$13 for children. You can also opt for package add-ons with your entrance ticket, such as a scoop of ice cream or a gourmet patty from Devon House Bakery.

Good to Know: If you book a tour to Devon House, your tour package will likely include an entrance ticket.

Contact Information

For any further queries or to book a tour, you can reach out to the Devon House management via the following contact information:

• Email: marketingandeventsmanager@devonhouseja.com
• Phone: 876-929-6602 / 876-926-0815 / 876-618-3622 / 876-618-3623
• Fax: 876-926-0817

Discover Devon House Today

If you’re planning a trip to Kingston, Jamaica, a visit to Devon House is a must. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, a shopper, or just someone looking for a relaxing day out, Devon House has something for everyone. So why wait? Discover the magic of Devon House today!

For recommendations on some of the best times to visit Jamaica, you can check out our guide here.

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If you’re traveling to Jamaica alone, ensure you take all the necessary measures to keep safe. Read about how you can stay safe while visiting Jamaica. If you decide to visit any resort, be sure to tag us in your photos and videos @resortcaribbean, and follow our socials: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube.