Launceston Castle & Town Trail
Distance: 2 miles | Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 1 hour
Historic town walk exploring Launceston’s Norman castle and medieval center.
Highlights
- Norman castle ruins with panoramic views
- St. Mary Magdalene Church (ornate 16th century)
- Medieval town layout
- Independent shops and cafés
- Lawrence House Museum
- Town gates and historic buildings
Route Details
Starting Point: Launceston Castle (PL15 7DR) Terrain: Town pavements and gentle paths Best Time: Year-round Elevation: Minimal Family-Friendly: Yes
Description
This easy town trail explores the historic market town of Launceston, once the capital of Cornwall. The highlight is the impressive Norman castle with its unique shell keep. The route takes in the town’s medieval street pattern, fine church, and historic buildings.
The Route
- Launceston Castle - Start with castle visit
- Castle Street - Down into town center
- St. Mary Magdalene Church - Ornate exterior carvings
- Market Square - Historic town center
- Town Gates - South Gate remains
- Return - Via castle grounds
Points of Interest
- Launceston Castle - Norman motte & bailey (English Heritage)
- St. Mary Magdalene - Finest church exterior in Cornwall
- Lawrence House - Georgian townhouse museum
- Market Square - Weekly markets since medieval times
- Town Gates - Original medieval entrance
Facilities
- Parking: Several town car parks (pay & display)
- Toilets: Town center facilities
- Refreshments: Multiple cafés and pubs
- Shops: Independent stores, market
What to Do
- Castle Visit: English Heritage (admission charge)
- Church Visit: Usually open, free entry
- Museum: Lawrence House (check opening times)
- Shopping: Independent shops, antiques
- Market: Wednesday & Saturday mornings
Family-Friendly
- Easy terrain suitable for all ages
- Short distance, manageable for children
- Plenty of facilities and refreshment stops
- Castle great for kids
- Ice cream shops!
Combining With
- Café Stop: Plenty of options in town
- Pub Lunch: Traditional Cornish pubs
- Shopping: Browse independent stores
- Longer Walk: Extend along Tamar riverside
Perfect for a short historical walk, rainy day activity, or combining with shopping and refreshments. Great introduction to Cornwall’s medieval capital.