Launceston, The historic town ofLaunceston is the Ancient Capital of Cornwall, and sits on the North Devon Cornwall border It is also the main Cornish town in a large area between Bodmin Moor, and Devon's Dartmoor.. It's origins date back to a time when  Cornwalls, population were the Celts. It's history as we know it begins in the Saxon era, and it is known that a Saxon Mint existed in the town. Launceston most striking feature, the castle built on a high natural mound was constructed after the Norman Conquest in 1066. The Castle was built by Brian de Bretagne the first Norman Earl of Cornwall in the 11th Century. It straddled the main route into Cornwall and this symbol of Norman power no doubt strengthened Norman control over the troublesome and often rebellious Saxon population. The Castle has seen many improvements a later edition being a 13th century round keep built inside an earlier circular shell-keep, by Richard Earl of Cornwall. By the 12th century the town was walled, and Launceston had the distinction of being the only walled town in the whole of Cornwall.  In the late 12th century a circular stone keep was constructed on top of the mottle. Between 1227 and 1272, Richard of Cornwall held the earldom, and during this time he made extensive alterations to the castle. A tower was built inside the keep and stone curtain walls replaced the timber palisades, with substantial gatehouses in the north and south. After Richard of Cornwall's death in 1272, his son, Edmund, moved the earldom's administration to Lostwithiel. The castle was used more  as a prison than strategic. And it was here in the Castle that the Assises, were held, and it was here that George Fox, founder of the Quakers religious movement, suffered harsh confinement in 1656. The Castle was also held the Cornwall Assises

Today Launceston is still is an important market center; for North Cornwall and the rights to hold such markets were among the privileges granted by Royal Charter which are still enjoyed today You can view these historic  Charters and other historical papers for they are housed in the Archives of Launceston. Lawrence House also displays a variety of historical artifacts and is recognized as one of the finest museums in Cornwall, if not in the South West. The priory in Launceston was dedicated to St Stephen and was one the richest priories in Cornwall .  Launceston Priory had reached its peak in both influence and wealth in the 16th century, however following the dissolution of the Monasteries in 1536-1541 by King Henry V111, it was razed to the ground and never re-built.  King Henry V111, ordered the Monasteries destroyed,  following  the Catholic Church's refusal to sanction his divorce from Catherine of Aragon.

What has Launceston got to offer the visitor apart from it's illustrious history. Well apart from the history Launceston is set amongst some of the most stunning countryside in Cornwall. Lying to the North of the Town is the Parish Church of St.Thomas which stands close to the ruins of historic Launceston Priory founded in 1126 by the then Bishop of Exeter and alongside the River Kensey over which pedestrians can still cross by means of the ancient Clapper Bridge. Nearby is the unique Hidden Valley Discovery Park which has a  miniature railway among many other attractions. L. S. R. the Launceston Steam Railway takes trippers and steam engine enthusiasts on a journey through several miles of countryside to the hamlet of Newmills.  The Engines used were manufactured in the 1800's to a famous design by the Hunslet Engineering Company. Trains run regualy throughout the summer. New Mill Farm Park is a wonderful day out for the family whatever the weather. Attractions include, Indoor and outdoor fun for all the family, including Play barns, ballpools, pets corner, trampolines, Megaslides, Climbing frames, Pirates sand pits, tennis, plus many other fun activities for all. Trethorne Leisure Farm where the children can interact with the animals, they can feed the animals, ride the ponies or milk a cow called Daisy For the more adventorus and energetic holiday maker Trethorne Leisure Farm provides the roller racers, free fall the slides or tackle the virtual climbing wall.  Yes with all these venues, and activitys, plus it's location, and history Launceston has all the holiday maker needs to ensure they have a great time.

If you would like to link to this website please Email