Rose Hall Great House – A Complete Visitors Guide

Perched high above Montego Bay, the Rose Hall Great House is Jamaica’s most famous mansion — a place where beauty and legend meet. Built in the 1770s, it’s forever tied to the story of Annie Palmer, the infamous “White Witch of Rose Hall.” By day, the estate tells a tale of colonial grandeur. By night, flickering candlelight reveals a darker side, where whispers of ghosts still linger.

“Duppy know who fi frighten.” – Bob Marley
“There’s a natural mystic blowing through the air; if you listen carefully now you will hear.”
Rose Hall, mystic winds carry whispers of love, betrayal, and restless spirits, turning history into legend and legend into living mystery. Whether you come for the sweeping views of Montego Bay or the chilling tales of Annie Palmer, the “White Witch,” the Great House leaves every visitor with a story they’ll never forget. It is more than a mansion — it is Jamaica’s most unforgettable encounter with the past.

Perched on a hill overlooking Montego Bay, the Rose Hall Great House is one of Jamaica’s most famous historic landmarks. Built in the 1770s, this restored Georgian mansion is best known for the legend of the White Witch of Rose Hall — Annie Palmer, a woman said to have ruled the estate with cruelty and mysticism. Today, the house combines history, architecture, and a touch of the supernatural, making it a must-visit in Montego Bay.

Getting There

  • From Montego Bay city center: ~15 minutes by car

  • From Falmouth: ~30 minutes

  • From Ocho Rios: ~1.5 hours
    Easily accessible via local taxis, private transfers, or organized tours from hotels and cruise ships.

What to Expect

  • Restored Georgian Mansion – Explore elegant architecture and antique furnishings

  • Guided Tours – Captivating stories of Annie Palmer, the infamous “White Witch”

  • Day Tours – Focus on history, architecture, and plantation life

  • Night Tours – Candlelit, eerie, and dramatic storytelling

  • Panoramic Views – Stunning views of the Caribbean Sea

  • Gift Shop & Bar – Souvenirs and the famous Witches Brew cocktail

Activities at Rose Hall

  • Daytime Historical Tour – Learn about the Great House and plantation history
  • Night Haunted Tour – Ghostly tales of Annie Palmer
  • Photography – Capture the beautiful house and landscapes
  • Shopping & Dining – Souvenirs and refreshments

    Entrance Fees & Hours

    • Day Tour: ~$25 USD adults / ~$10 USD children

    • Night Tour: ~$30 USD adults

    • Hours: Open daily, tours typically 9 AM – 5 PM (day) and 6 PM – 9 PM (night)

    Tips for Visitors

    • Book night tours in advance (they sell out quickly)

    • Wear comfortable shoes (uneven stairs and floors)

    • Bring a camera (flash may be restricted)

    • Night tours may be too intense for younger children

    Where to Stay Nearby

    • Hilton Rose Hall Resort & Spa – Family-friendly all-inclusive next to the Great House

    • Half Moon Resort – Luxury beachfront option nearby

    • Holiday Inn Resort Montego Bay – Affordable all-inclusive option

    Popular Bob Marley Museum Tours

    Tour Option Duration What’s Included
    Rose Hall Great House Day Tour 2 Hours Guided history tour, entry fees
    Rose Hall Haunted Night Tour 2–3 Hours Evening storytelling, candlelit tour
    Montego Bay Highlights + Rose Hall Half Day Transport, city tour, Great House entry
    Private Tour with Transfer Flexible Hotel pickup/drop-off, entry fees