Launceston Castle and church

St Mary Magdalene Church Launceston. This wonderful church is built on the site of a once medieval chapel traceable back to a license for a chapel written by the bishop in June of 1380. The current bell tower forms part of that early building. The remainder of the present building was consecrated in 1524, although the site, and some stonework, is even older than the Medieval name.

Towering over the town, Launceston Castle once controlled the main route into Cornwall. In the 13th century, Richard Earl of Cornwall created the unique multi-tiered stone keep. You get amazing views from here.

Later Launceston Castle became a notorious prison, nicknamed ‘Castle Terrible’. Today the prison’s long gone, and the castle grounds are an ideal spot for picnics.Read more