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
Arundell Arms
Fore Street, Lifton, Devon, PL16 0AA.
The Arundell Arms exudes warmth and comfort and has a restaurant with 2 AA Rosettes. It is ideal for keen fishermen and lovers of the countryside. In the hotel you will find handmade chocolates in the sitting room, and fresh flowers. The terraced garden i
Lewtrenchard Manor
Lewdown, Lifton, Devon, EX20 4PN.
Lewtrenchard Manor is a luxurious countryside getaway beneath the wild hills of Dartmoor. It is a historic Jacobean manor where food and service reign supreme. Lewtrenchard is tucked away in its own secret valley and is home to Purple Carrot, a 'chef's ta
Lifton Hall Hotel
New Road, Lifton, Devon, PL16 0DR.
Located in the peaceful village of Lifton, near the Devon/Cornwall border, this historic 16th century country hotel is well placed for visiting Dartmoor and exploring the surrounding area. Lifton Hall Hotel offers you distinctly styled accommodation that
The Coachouse Hotel & Restaurant
Ottery, Tavistock, Devon, PL19 8NS.
This lovely 19th century coach house is set 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. The Coach House was built on a site, which was originally
Trethorne Golf Club
Kennards House, Launceston, Cornwall, PL15 8QE.
Set in the beautiful county of Cornwall, this golf club offers friendly and down to earth Cornish hospitality and great value for money, with good sized en suite bedrooms. Trethorne Golf Club offers you the perfect combination of a picturesque and easily
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
