Cinnamon Hill Great House stands on a ridge above the sea on the Rose Hall coast, a handsome stone building from the plantation era with wide views over the Caribbean. It is best known today as the Jamaican home of Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash, who owned it for decades and spent many winters here, and the house has been linked ever since with the story of the Man in Black. Fans of country music and of Jamaican history alike will find something to enjoy. The tour we link takes you through the house with a guide, telling the story of the estate from its sugar-growing origins through to its famous owners. You will hear about the family who built it, the people who worked the land and the way the building was restored and furnished over the years, and you will see rooms that hold personal touches from the Cashes. The setting is as important as the interior, with terraces and gardens that open onto the sea and the fairways of the neighbouring golf course.
How it works
The tour is run as a guided visit lasting around an hour, and you arrive at the house at your allotted time. Guides lead small groups through the principal rooms, the veranda and the grounds, with plenty of time for questions and photographs. Check whether the visit takes place on a fixed schedule or by appointment, and whether transport from your hotel is included, because the house is a short drive east of Montego Bay.
What to expect
The house is a historic building that is still associated with a private owner, so access can change and some areas may not be open. Guides focus on the history of the estate and on stories about the Cashes, including their love of Jamaica, the songs written here and the visits from other musicians. The grounds are pleasant for a stroll, and you may see views along the coastline that are among the finest in the parish.
Making the most of it
Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing, and bring a hat and sunscreen for the terrace. Combine the visit with Rose Hall Great House just along the coast, which has a very different story, for a full morning of historic houses. Cinnamon Hill Golf Course is next door if golf appeals, and the beaches of the Rose Hall resort strip are close enough for an easy swim before lunch. Ask your guide to point out the best photo spots on the terrace.
Planning it into your week
The house works best as part of a Rose Hall morning, combined with Rose Hall Great House, or as a stop on the way to Falmouth. If you are a Johnny Cash fan, listen to his Jamaican-inspired songs or read about his time here before you go, as it adds depth to the visit. Check opening arrangements in advance, because the house is privately associated and the schedule can change.
Arrive a few minutes early, and ask your guide about the sea views and the stories behind the furniture and photographs. Photographs of the exterior and terraces are normally welcome, but ask before photographing inside. The visit is short, so it is easy to combine with a swim or lunch afterwards.
A final tip
Look closely at the portraits, books and furnishings, because small details often hold the best stories, and your guide will happily explain anything that catches your eye.
What to expect
The experience
A guided visit to a historic great house on the Rose Hall coast, once owned by Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash.
Best time
Morning visits are cooler and pair well with another sight in the Rose Hall area.
How long
About one to two hours.
Tips
Wear comfortable shoes, bring sunscreen and check whether transport and entry details have changed.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Johnny Cash fans and anyone who enjoys historic houses with sea views.
- Families
- Fine for children who are happy to walk and listen, though there is little for young ones to do.
- Couples
- A quiet, atmospheric visit with sea views, easy to combine with lunch.
- Pair with
- Rose Hall Great House and Cinnamon Hill Golf Course, both close by.
- Time needed
- Around two hours.
Good questions
Who owned Cinnamon Hill Great House?+
Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash owned the house for many years and spent time there each winter.
Where is it?+
It is on the Rose Hall coast, a short drive east of Montego Bay and its airport.
How long does the tour last?+
The guided visit lasts around an hour, so allow one to two hours with travel and photos.
Can I combine it with Rose Hall Great House?+
Yes, the two houses are close together, and visiting both makes an easy historic morning.
Can I go inside every room?+
Access can vary, because the house has a private owner. Your guide will explain which areas are open.
