Devon House Tour With Ice Cream From Kingston

Nestled in the heart of Kingston, Jamaica, the Devon House tour offers a delightful glimpse into the island’s rich history and culinary delights. Visitors can explore the grandeur of this 19th-century mansion, once owned by the remarkable George Stiebel, the first millionaire of African descent. As they uncover the architectural wonders and learn about Stiebel’s remarkable life, guests are treated to a refreshing ice cream from the on-site bar, creating a truly memorable experience. With its blend of history, culture, and flavor, the Devon House tour promises to captivate the senses and leave you eager to discover more about this captivating destination.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Tours In Kingston.

Good To Know

• Explore the 19th-century Georgian-style mansion of Jamaica’s first millionaire of African descent, George Stiebel, on a guided tour from Kingston.
• Indulge in a refreshing ice cream treat, including classic vanilla, mango, and guava flavors, while enjoying the scenic views of the historic property.
• Discover the architectural grandeur and opulence of Devon House, showcasing intricate woodwork, stunning chandeliers, and breathtaking ceiling murals.
• Learn about Stiebel’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings to wealth and his legacy as a pioneering entrepreneur in 19th-century Jamaica.
• Explore the on-site craft shop, bakery, bar, and restaurant, offering a variety of shopping and dining options to complement the historical tour experience.

Historical Background of Devon House

The 19th-century Devon House, nestled on Millionaires Corner in Kingston, Jamaica, stands as a testament to the remarkable life and riches of George Stiebel, the island’s first millionaire of African descent.

Declared a National Monument in 1990, this well-preserved mansion offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the era.

Visitors can explore the property’s period details and furnishings, learning about Stiebel’s fascinating journey from humble beginnings to extraordinary wealth and success.

The guided tour provides an educational and engaging experience, allowing guests to enjoy Jamaica’s rich history and the inspiring story of this pioneering entrepreneur.

Exploring the Mansion’s Architectural Details

As visitors step inside the grand entrance of Devon House, they’re immediately captivated by the mansion’s exquisite architectural features.

The two-story Georgian style building showcases stunning Corinthian columns, ornate moldings, and intricate woodwork that transport guests back to the 19th century.

Ornate chandeliers, parquet floors, and elegant staircases add to the mansion’s regal ambiance.

Guided tours allow visitors to admire the impeccably preserved period details, from the grand ballroom with its breathtaking ceiling murals to the well-appointed bedrooms featuring antique furnishings.

Every corner of this historic home reflects the wealth and refined tastes of its original owner, George Stiebel, Jamaica’s first millionaire of African descent.

Learning About George Stiebel’s Life and Legacy

A guided tour of Devon House offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the remarkable life and legacy of George Stiebel, Jamaica’s first millionaire of African descent.

Born in 1819, Stiebel amassed his fortune through savvy business ventures and real estate investments, becoming one of the wealthiest individuals in 19th-century Jamaica.

The opulent mansion he constructed serves as a testament to his remarkable achievements and serves as a symbol of the growing prosperity of the island’s Black elite during this era.

Visitors will learn how Stiebel’s entrepreneurial spirit and determination propelled him to the top, making him a pioneering figure in Jamaican history.

On-site Ice Cream Bar Experience

Visitors can indulge in a sweet treat at the on-site ice cream bar after their captivating tour of Devon House. The ice cream bar offers a delightful selection of flavors, from the classic vanilla to the more adventurous mango and guava. Guests can enjoy their ice cream while taking in the stunning views of the historic property. The smooth, creamy texture and bold, tropical flavors perfectly complement the tour experience, leaving visitors with a delightful and memorable treat.

Flavor	Description	Price
Vanilla	Rich, creamy, and classic	$3
Mango	Refreshing and bursting with tropical flavor	$4
Guava	Sweet, tangy, and uniquely Jamaican	$4

Additional Dining and Shopping Options

The Devon House compound offers an array of additional dining and shopping options for visitors to explore.

Along With the on-site ice cream bar, there’s a craft shop brimming with locally-made souvenirs and artisan crafts.

Those craving a more substantial treat can visit the bakery, serving up freshly-baked Jamaican pastries and breads.

For a refreshing libation, the bar provides a selection of tropical cocktails and mocktails.

And for a full dining experience, the property’s restaurant showcases the best of Jamaican cuisine, from hearty jerk dishes to sweet plantain-based delights.

With so many tempting choices, visitors can easily spend an entire afternoon immersed in the historic estate’s vibrant culinary and retail offerings.

Transportation and Accessibility Information

The Devon House tour offers convenient transportation and accessibility options for visitors. Hotel pickup and drop-off from Kingston hotels are included, with air-conditioned minivans providing comfortable transportation. The historic property is also wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly, making it an ideal outing for all guests. For those relying on public transit, the tour is conveniently located near public transportation hubs.

Accessibility Features	Description
Wheelchair Accessibility	The property is fully wheelchair accessible.
Stroller Accessibility	Strollers are welcome on the tour.
Public Transportation	The tour is near public transit options.
Hotel Pickup/Drop-Off	Included transportation from Kingston hotels.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts provides visitors with flexibility in planning their schedules.

The Devon House Tour also offers a Reserve Now and Pay Later option, allowing guests to secure their spot without immediate payment.

Booking this tour is straightforward, with several convenient options:

• Book directly through the tour provider’s website
• Use a popular travel booking platform
• Contact the tour operator via phone or email
• Inquire with your hotel’s concierge for assistance
• Consider group discounts for parties of 2 or more

Positive Guest Feedback and Highlights

Overwhelmingly, guests have praised the Devon House Tour as a "fun experience" that offers both educational value and picturesque photo opportunities. Visitors highlight the guided tour’s ability to bring the 19th-century mansion’s history and former owner’s life to vivid life. Many have also lauded the generous ice cream treat included as part of the experience, with one reviewer describing it as "delicious" and "the perfect complement to the tour."

Highlights	Guest Feedback
Educational Value	"Learned so much about the history and significance of Devon House."
Beautiful Photo Ops	"The property and mansion are stunning – great for photos!"
Included Ice Cream	"The ice cream was a wonderful surprise and hit the spot perfectly."
Knowledgeable Guides	"Our guide was incredibly informative and passionate about the site."
Overall Experience	"A truly memorable and enjoyable tour – highly recommend!"

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Tour?

Absolutely! Visitors are encouraged to snap photos throughout the tour, capturing the stunning 19th-century architecture, period furnishings, and lush gardens. The guided experience offers ample opportunities for stunning photos to commemorate this fascinating historical journey.

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

Pets are not permitted on the Devon House tour, as the historic site and grounds are meant to be enjoyed in a tranquil, family-friendly environment. Guests are welcome to explore the beautiful mansion and lush gardens without the distraction of furry companions.

Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?

The tour is available in English, but additional languages may be accommodated upon request. Guests are encouraged to inquire about language options when booking to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Can I Purchase Additional Ice Cream Flavors?

Yes, visitors can purchase additional ice cream flavors beyond the treat included with the tour. The on-site ice cream bar offers a variety of mouth-watering options to indulge in after exploring the historic Devon House.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no specific dress code for the tour, though visitors are encouraged to dress comfortably. The focus is on enjoying the historic sights and delicious ice cream, so casual attire is perfectly suitable for this relaxed and educational experience.

The Sum Up

The Devon House Tour with Ice Cream offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the grand 19th-century mansion. Visitors can enjoy the remarkable life of Jamaica’s first millionaire of African descent, George Stiebel, while indulging in a refreshing ice cream treat. This enchanting experience celebrates the island’s rich history and culture, making it a must-visit attraction for anyone seeking to savor the essence of Jamaica.