Craighton House

Craighton House, perched approximately 2,600 feet above sea level in St. Andrew, stands as a historic landmark named after its original owner, George Craighton. Constructed around 1805, this distinguished residence has seen numerous renovations over the years, yet its historic charm and architectural significance remain intact. The house offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, enhancing its appeal and positioning it as a noteworthy site in the region. Throughout its history, Craighton House has been associated with several prominent figures, including Sir John Grant, a former Governor of Jamaica, and the Earl of Elgin. Sir Henry Blake, Governor of Jamaica in 1880, also had ties to the property. Additionally, the artist Marion North, known for her paintings of Jamaican scenery, created some of her works at Craighton House; her art is now showcased in the Marion North Gallery at Kew in Great Britain. In the 1800s, the area surrounding Craighton House was renowned for its coffee production. In 1981, Ueshima Coffee Company (UCC), the largest coffee producer in Japan, acquired both Craighton House and the adjoining Craighton Estate. UCC has since revitalized coffee cultivation on the estate, operating under the name UCC Blue Mountain Coffee (Jamaica) Limited. Today, part of the historic building serves as offices, and Craighton House continues to play a role in promoting UCC Jamaica’s coffee production, serving as both a functional workspace and a symbol of the company’s heritage.