“Travel expands the mind and fills the gap.
–Sheda Savage
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Nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers—this one’s for you! My company recently organized a staff trip to the Cranbrook Flower Forest, tucked away in Laughlands, St. Ann, between Ocho Rios and Montego Bay. And let me just say—this spot is a blend of nature’s serenity and deep-rooted history.
I first visited Cranbrook via a coaster bus from Kingston to Ocho Rios, followed by a quick taxi ride to Laughlands. The journey is scenic, and the fresh air greets you the moment you step onto the property.
Most of us set off on a scenic hike along the River, following its gentle flow to a hidden gem—a serene, 14-foot-deep pool embraced by vibrant flora and the soft music of cascading water.
The Riverhead likely functioned as a crucial water source for surrounding plantations, supporting both agricultural production and the daily operations of estate life.
The Riverhead plays a vital role in supporting the rich and diverse plant life found throughout Cranbrook Flower Forest.
Fed by the river’s gentle flow, a lush garden flourishes—orchids, begonias, gingers, heliconias, and palms rise in quiet celebration of nature’s perfect balance.
The place is cool and damp, which helps everything grow naturally—no need for any fertilizers.
Once called Cranbrook Pen, this estate carries echoes of the past, its story beginning in 1494 during Spanish colonization—when the land served as a source of sugar and cattle, fueling expeditions across the island.
In the folds of history, Cranbrook once formed part of the expansive Cranbrook Pen and Blenheim Estate—vast lands carved out during the colonial era.
After the English seized Jamaica in 1655, the estate took on a new name—Cranbrook Pen—while the neighboring sugar lands came to be known as Blenheim Estate, marking a new chapter in the land’s colonial story.
According to the 1818 Jamaica Almanac, both estates were owned by John Moffat as early as 1809. Their operation depended on the forced labor of 338 enslaved individuals and a modest herd of 29 cattle—a sobering reflection of Jamaica’s colonial past.
Through the 19th and early 20th centuries, the land changed hands like pages in a worn journal, passing through the care of figures such as Robert Robinson, D.L. Townsend, and C. Calder.
As of 1938, the once-sprawling estates of Cranbrook and Blenheim had shrunk from 980 to 841 acres. The land, though smaller, still pulsed with purpose—sustaining cattle, pimento trees, and humble ground provisions.
In the twilight of the 20th century, the land began to bloom anew—transformed from farmland into a haven of eco-tourism, where nature and history walk hand in hand.
In May 1997, Cranbrook Flower Forest opened its gates to the public, inviting visitors to wander through its sculpted gardens, meandering river trails, and echoes of history woven into the landscape.
Welcoming visitors at the entrance are the restored remains of a 200-year-old sugar mill—now transformed into a charming museum and gift shop, quietly honoring the estate’s rich and complex past.
Due to the heavy rainfall, we were unable to enter the natural pool formed at the riverhead, as the conditions caused the water to become too rough for safe access.
Following our visit to the Riverhead, we spent some time enjoying a peaceful spot along the river before returning to Kingston.
Have you ever been to Cranbrook Flower Forest? If yes, I’d love to hear about your experience. If not, would you add it to your list after reading this? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear from you! 🌿
Until the next adventure,
Nature’s Sweet Escapes
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Whatta Gwaan!
You've discovered my blog. I'm delighted you're here. Maybe it's destiny. I'm Doreen Lillian Scarlett welcome to Nature's Sweet Escapes where I go on the far side of Instagram to document and share my adventures.