Launceston
OS Grid ref:- SX335845
Launceston is the ancient capital of Cornwall and was founded in the 11th century when William the Conqueror gave his half brother, Robert, Count of Mortain, the land surrounding a hill site already fortified by his predecessor the Saxon king Edward the Confessor. The town boasts streets of imposing Georgian houses, has a variety of accommodation and an abundance of shops, restaurants and pubs.
In the Middle Ages Launceston was the only walled town in Cornwall, fragments of the walls still stand in the parklands below the castle and at Southgate, an grand Norman arch which was one of the three original entrances to the town. Launceston has varying types of architecture, from Tudor to modern day.
Launceston Castle
Launceston Castle was founded by Robert of Mortain, half brother of the formidable William the Conqueror in the 11th century, it later came into the possession of Richard, Earl of Cornwall, the younger brother of Henry III.
Launceston Castle reproduced courtesy of English Heritage
The Castle sits astride a mound beside the River Kelsey. The soaring keep leansand the curtain walls are in ruins. The castle was used as a stronghold during the Civil War and has also served as a prison and assize court.
Launceston Castle is now in the care of English Heritage. The superb views from the keep encompass Bodmin Moor and Dartmoor.
Opening times:- Apr - Sept, daily, 10am - 6pm, Oct, 10am - 5pm, Nov - March, Fri - Sun 10am - 4pm.
St. Mary Magdalene's church dates from the sixteenth century, almost every available surface on its exterior is adorned with carvings of legendary figures, animals, plants and fruit. Below the ornate east window is a carved figure of Mary Magdalene. It was once the castle chapel but now serves as Launceston's parish church.
Places to Visit
*Launceston Steam Railway runs for one and a quarter miles along the Kensey Valley and operates from a terminus below the castle. Open:- end of May - mid Oct, Easter and Christmas.
*Lawrence House Museum a handsome period house, containing exhibits relating to the history of the town and neighbouring areas. One of Cornwall's best museums.
*The Tamar Valley Donkey Sanctuary situated just of the A390 near Callington.
*The Tamar Otter Sanctuary The Otter Trust breeds the animals and reintroduces them back into the wild. Visitor centre and nature trail with wildfowl and deer. Situated on the B3254 to Bude.