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Old Titchfield Hotel Ruins: Echoes of Port Antonio's Glamorous Past

Explore the ruins of the Old Titchfield Hotel in Port Antonio, once the heart of Jamaica's tourism and a playground for the rich and famous.

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The Old Titchfield Hotel, now in ruins, was once a symbol of luxury and the heart of Jamaica's burgeoning tourism industry in Port Antonio. Built in the late 19th century and expanded in the early 1900s, it hosted wealthy travelers and celebrities before being destroyed by fire in 1969. Today, the site offers a glimpse into the town's glamorous past.

A brief summary to Old Titchfield Hotel

  • 5GMX+GFV, Queen St, Port Antonio, JM

Local tips

  • Explore the Titchfield Peninsula to see examples of Victorian-style gingerbread houses and absorb the area's historical atmosphere.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby attractions such as Navy Island, Frenchman's Cove, or the Blue Lagoon.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the ruins and exploring the peninsula.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Port Antonio town square, head north on Queen Street towards the Titchfield Peninsula. The ruins are located on the western side of the peninsula, about a 15-20 minute walk. As you walk along Queen Street, you'll pass the Scotia House, a guest house that once served as overflow accommodation for the Titchfield Hotel. The ruins are situated on a bluff overlooking the Errol Flynn Marina.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses and taxis are available from the Port Antonio town square to the Titchfield Peninsula. Ask the driver to drop you off near the Titchfield High School or the Errol Flynn Marina. From there, it's a short walk to the ruins. Bus fares are typically around US$1 for a short trip.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Port Antonio. A taxi from the town center to the Titchfield Hotel ruins will cost approximately JMD 700 - JMD 1000 (US$5-7). Be sure to agree on the fare before you start your journey. Licensed taxis have PPV plates (red tags).

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Discover more about Old Titchfield Hotel

The ruins of the Old Titchfield Hotel stand as a poignant reminder of Port Antonio's golden age. Originally constructed in 1891 by Captain Lorenzo Dow Baker, the founder of the Boston Fruit Company, the hotel catered to affluent passengers arriving on his banana boats. In its heyday, the Titchfield Hotel was considered one of the grandest hotels in the Western Hemisphere, boasting over 400 rooms and modern amenities that were rare for the time. The hotel played a pivotal role in establishing Port Antonio as the birthplace of Jamaican tourism. It attracted a wealthy clientele, including celebrities and socialites, drawn to the area's natural beauty and tranquility. The hotel became famous for its afternoon tea on the piazza, bathing in bathhouses, and overall luxurious atmosphere. In the 1950s, the hotel was purchased by actor Errol Flynn, further cementing its connection to Hollywood glamour. Flynn's vision for the hotel was never fully realized, as it tragically burned down in July 1969. Today, the ruins are located on the Titchfield Peninsula, offering visitors a chance to reflect on the hotel's storied past and Port Antonio's rich history. The property is now part of the Jamaican Defence Force.

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