Launceston Castle
Launceston Castle reflects the surrounding moors: bleak, hard and moody, and provides a glimpse into the Duchy of Cornwall’s medieval military past. Sitting on the county borders, from the old town below it has the resemblance of an unforgiving pass, the Duchy on the left hand side, and Devon on the right.
As strategic placement goes, Launceston Castle takes some beating. It sits on the border of England’s westernmost counties, between the desperate and treacherous moorlands of Bodmin and Dartmoor, guarding the bridge over the River Kensey, overlooking the surrounding valley, dominating the town of Launceston, the ancient Cornish capital, and controlling the main routes in and out of Cornwall, particularly the once lucrative tin trade. Amazingly, it lost its powerful positioning when the political administration moved south to Lostwithiel, after which the castle was turned into a fearful prison.
Originally it was the seat of the Earls of Cornwall, and extended by probably the most famous of them, Richard of Cornwall in the 13th century. Those with a penchant for castles will recognise a classic Norman motte and bailey design with spectacular and unusual double keep. Owned and maintained by English Heritage, the castle features an exhibition on its medieval history.