Launceston is the ancient capital of Cornwall and still boasts a medieval south gate and the ruins of a castle.
Launceston has been a market town since the time of the Normans when the Count removed it from the nearby St Stephens. It was the site of the County Assizes before the roads were improved and Bodmin became the county town in the early eighteenth century. There are some fine buildings in the town centre, although a street of medieval houses was demolished in the middle of the 20th century.
The town today has a variety of shops, cafes and resturants. One of the most popular attractions for visitors is Launceston Steam Railway with it’s museum and cafe and Launceston Castle. The Castle is the focal point of the town, it sits on a large natural mound which offers fantastic views over the town and far reaching views towards Bodmin Moor and also over to Dartmoor.
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- Carpark (Charges apply)
- Public Toilets
- Cafés (Open all year)
- Shops
- Restaurants
History of Launceston
Launceston is a historic town located in east Cornwall. The town has a rich history that dates back to the early medieval period. In the 10th century, the town was known as Dunheved, which means “fort on the hill”. It was an important market town during the medieval period, and its location near the River Tamar made it an important crossing point for goods and people.
During the English Civil War, Launceston was a strategic location due to its position on the border between Cornwall and Devon. The town was heavily fortified, and it was the last Royalist stronghold in Cornwall to surrender to the Parliamentarian forces.
Launceston Castle, located in the heart of the town, was built by Richard, Earl of Cornwall, in the 13th century. The castle was a strategically important location during the medieval period and was used as a prison until the 19th century.
The town’s prosperity declined in the 19th century due to the decline of the wool industry, but it saw a revival in the 20th century with the growth of tourism. Today, the town’s historic buildings and landmarks, including the castle, St. Mary Magdalene Church, and Lawrence House Museum, attract visitors from around the world.
Travel / Parking information for Launceston
Directions to Launceston
Launceston is well signposted off the A30 and an easily accessible town from all directions.
Parking for Launceston
Launceston has multiple public car parks as well as roadside parking which can be found around the town. Most car parks are a short walk from the towns shops and cafes.