Launceston Castle, Cornwall

7th August 2014
1070 - built by William the Conqueror's half brother, Count Robert of Mortain
Mid 1200s - Richard, Henry III younger brother, becomes Earl of Cornwall. Castle's defences are improved - a high tower is built with the shell keep and the gatehouse and curtain walls are renovated. 
1272 - following Richard;s death the castle is neglected
Civil War - castle is held for the king
In later years the castle walls enclosed a county jail - where hangings took place right up until 1821
1842 - jail moved to Bodmin

We entered the castle through the South Gatehouse and explored the shell keep first before going back down to the bailey to look around the ruins of the great hall, kitchens and administration hall and then to the North Gatehouse. The actual castle keep is very simple and compact, but a climb to the top enables views across Bodmin Moor and Dartmoor on a clear day. Make sure you take note of the shell keep which is actually leaning to one side slightly! There is a grassy area and benches which are ideal for a picnic.

Owned by English Heritage
A small multi-storey car park is located across the road from the castle
Small shop, 
Guidebooks are available, exhibition
Dogs allowed 


N & K

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