Launceston Castle is located in the town of Launceston, Cornwall, England. It was probably built by Robert the Count of Mortain after 1068, and initially comprised an earthwork and timber castle with a large motte in one corner. Launceston Castle formed the administrative centre of the new earldom of Cornwall, with a large community packed within the walls of its bailey. It was rebuilt in stone in the 12th century and then substantially redeveloped by Richard of Cornwall after 1227, including a high tower to enable visitors to view his surrounding lands. When Richard's son, Edmund, inherited the castle, he moved the earldom's administration to Lostwithiel, triggering the castle's decline. By 1337, the castle was increasingly ruinous and used primarily as a gaol and to host judicial assizes.Plan to visit Launceston Castle and other customer-reviewed, writer-recommended Launceston attractions using our Launceston visit site.
The castle was captured by the rebels during the Prayer Book Rebellion of 1549, and was garrisoned by the Royalists during the English Civil War in the 17th century. Towards the end of the civil war it was stripped for its building materials and rendered largely uninhabitable. A small gaol was erected in the centre of the bailey, which was also used for executions. The castle eventually became the county gaol for Cornwall, but was heavily criticised for its poor facilities and treatment of inmates. By 1842, the remaining prisoners had been moved to Bodmin Gaol and the site was closed, the castle being landscaped to form a park by the Duke of Northumberland. During the Second World War, the site was used to host United States Army soldiers and, later, by the Air Ministry for offices. The ministry left the castle in 1956 and the site was reopened to visitors.
In the 21st century, Launceston is owned by the duchy of Cornwall and operated by English Heritage as a tourist attraction. Much of the castle defences remain, including the motte, keep and high tower which overlook the castle's former deer park to the south. The gatehouses and some of the curtain wall have survived, and archaeologists have uncovered the foundations of various buildings in the bailey, including the great hall.
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Launceston Castle reviews
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I really enjoyed Launceston castle nearly as much as I do Rowe’s pasty’s the view from the top was SO stunning I nearly fell of the castle Im sure living my life as a puddle wouldn’t be fun ANYWAY as.... more »
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We visited Launceston Castle on our way to holiday park in Crantock.Unfortunately the day we had pre booked to come the,weather was horrendous so it was a very short visit as we had young children... more »
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If you're a little scared of falling, or if you suffer a bit from vertigo, this could well be a challenge. But take nothing away from the views and magnificence of this piece of history. The castle... more »
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Fantastic day out. Climb to the top if you date and see the view for miles. Lovely example of a norman castle. Bring a picnic to eat in the grounds under the mature oak trees.
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Not sure of the cost for none members, there isn't a lot to see of the castle. There are great 360° views of the surrounding areas. It is a steep climb with lots of steps, they are all in good condition.
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A bit of history in lovely little town, I spot it on the way back from Cornwall, it's a big car park close to the castle, amazing bakery with delicious Pasty. Castle is worth to have a nice look. View from the top of it is amazing. Staff is helpful and very polite. Enjoy
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Had loads of great fun with kids. Had to visit with grand child. Still great. Loads of lovely memories.****
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A nice view to the top accessed by a lot of steps, most modern so even but the last few are worn with years of use as one would expect. A very friendly lady on the till.
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