Looking for one of the best things to do in Kingston, Jamaica? Devon House is a must-visit destination. This iconic landmark is a National Heritage Site, home to rich history, stunning architecture, family fun, and what some say is the best ice cream in the Caribbean.
🏠 The Story Behind Devon House: Built by Jamaica’s First Black Millionaire
Devon House was built in 1881 by George Stiebel, Jamaica’s first Black millionaire. Born in 1821, Stiebel worked as a carpenter and trader, transporting cargo between North and South America. After being shipwrecked off the coast of Venezuela during one of his voyages, he started working in a gold mine. Eventually, he was able to purchase an abandoned gold mine with 3 other associates and they struck gold, literally.
With his newfound wealth, he returned to Jamaica and invested in real estate—eventually owning 99 properties, the legal limit at the time. Among his most prized acquisitions was Devon Penn, which he purchased for £10,000. There, he built his dream home: the grand and elegant Devon House, where he lived with his family until his death in 1896.
🕰️ Touring Devon House: History Meets Architecture
Taking a tour of Devon House feels like stepping back in time to 1881, when the house was newly built. The mansion showcases a beautiful fusion of Caribbean and Victorian architecture, filled with antique furniture and design elements from Jamaica, England, and France.
Did you know that Devon House once housed the National Gallery of Jamaica? Or that it was nearly demolished in 1965 to make way for commercial development? Thankfully, it was preserved and is now one of Jamaica’s most cherished heritage sites.
Today, friendly and knowledgeable guides walk you through each room of the mansion, offering stories about the property’s evolution and the families who once called it home.
🍨 Devon House I-Scream: A Sweet Jamaican Tradition
Let’s be honest—most people visit Devon House for one thing: ice cream.
“Devon House I-Scream” was launched in 1982 during restoration efforts ahead of Queen Elizabeth II’s visit to Jamaica. Organizers wanted to serve more than tea, so they commissioned a special ice cream formula. It was such a hit that it became a permanent fixture.
In 2011, National Geographic ranked Devon House as the fourth best place in the world to enjoy ice cream. With unique flavors like rum and raisin, stout, guava, and mango, this sweet treat is as unforgettable as the setting.
🎉 More to Explore at Devon House: Shopping, Dining & Family Fun
Devon House offers more than just a mansion tour and ice cream—it’s a full cultural and culinary experience. The property features:
- 🍽️ Local and international restaurants
- 🛍️ Artisan shops and boutiques
- 🧁 Bakeries and gourmet food stalls
- 🌳 Spacious lawns perfect for family picnics and photos
Whether you’re craving Jamaican jerk chicken, a handcrafted pastry, or a unique souvenir, you’ll find it all here.
📍 Visit Devon House on Your Next Kingston Trip
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, Devon House is one of the best spots in Kingston to soak in Jamaican culture, enjoy delicious food, and connect with the island’s history.
So, next time you’re in Kingston, make sure to stop by Devon House—where history, flavor, and fun come together.
Looking for more fun and interesting things to do in Kingston and St. Andrew check out our previous article: Things to do in Kingston & St. Andrew.
Walk good! ✨
