LAUNCESTON, CORNWALL

Launceston usually without the 't' by the Cornish, but with by everyone else) is a town in the north of Cornwall.

Launceston, the Ancient Capital of and acknowledged gateway to Cornwall sits astride the A30 one mile from the Devon/ Cornwall border, in an area of considerable beauty and charm with easy access to both North and South Coasts as well as to the cities of Exeter, Plymouth and Truro.

The town is built on the side of a large hill, so is almost immune to flooding, unlike the suburb of Newport, situated at the bottom of the hill, which is susceptible to flooding by the River Kensey.

The Norman castle which dominates the town is of motte-and-bailey design, and was built by Robert de Mortain, half-brother of William I, in 1087 to dominate the surrounding area.

The outskirts of Launceston have recently undergone rapid large business development, although the town centre has slowly become less and less commercial, with only small shops and many of those going out of business within only a few months.

The Launceston Steam Railway is a heritage railway which runs from the town. There is a town trail for visitors to follow which highlights the ancient architecture and historical features including the 16th Century Church of St. Mary Magdalene which has one of the most lavishly carved exteriors of any Church in England. There are three other churches as well as a Methodist Chapel and Kingdom Hall, three Primary Schools, one private school and Launceston College, so both spiritual and secular needs are well served.

LAUNCESTON HOTELS

Lifton Hall

New Road, Launceston Lifton, Lifton, Devon, PL16 0DR.
Luxurious Relaxed Elagance on the Devon / Cornish Border This building is brimming with period features and traditional character.

The Coachouse Hotel & Restaurant

Ottery, Tavistock, Devon, PL19 8NS.
A lovely 19th Century Coach House on the edge of Dartmoor, close to historic Tavistock and the Tamar Valley The valley is of outstanding natural beauty; yet only 15 miles from Plymouth. Sorry no children under 5 years old.

LAUNCESTON RESTAURANTS

Cloisters Wine Bar & Bistro - 13 Church Street, Launceston, Cornwall, PL15 8AW
Roberto's - 7 Southgate Street, Launceston, Cornwall, PL15 9DP
Sagor Tandoori Restaurant - 6 Western Road, Launceston, Cornwall, PL15 7AS

LAUNCESTON ATTRACTIONS

Launceston Castle - set high on a motte, the castle commanded the town, surrounding countryside and main routes into Cornwall
Launceston Steam Railway
Parish Church of St. Thomas which stands close to the ruins of Launceston Priory

TOWNS NEAR LAUNCESTON

Callington, Camelford, Lifton, Liskeard, Tavistock

TRANSPORT LINKS

Launceston is served by Gunnislake Railway Station (10.5 miles) and Plymouth Roborough Airport (18.5 miles). Launceston is on the A388 off the A30