Launceston Castle, Launceston, United Kingdom

Launceston Castle 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.

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, earning it the nickname Castle Terrible. 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.

References:

Wikipedia

User Reviews

V A (6 months ago)
Well worth the the climb to the top for the views. Wearing correct footwear is a must. All in all a very interesting castle to visit even though it's a ruin.

Jessica Thame (8 months ago)
The views from the very top was beautiful. The castle grounds are beautiful too and wheelchair friendly, but the actual castle itself isn’t as there’s a lot of stairs. Highly recommended!

PC S.O.S. (9 months ago)
Set at the top of a hill in the beautiful scenery, was a wonderful day out in Launceston Castle, must go and visit the town centre for lots to see and so welcoming and friendly people and such magnificent food also to try. We had a wonderful time and the family enjoyed the time in Launceston. We definitely will be back!!! and

John Kitchener (9 months ago)
It is a great castle with very friendly and helpful staff. There are a lot of steps here to reach the top. However, despite the steep climb and several historical information signs, we were able to walk around the whole castle site in about 45 minutes. That, along with parking, makes this one of the more expensive options in the area. The souvenir shop is packed with a great assortment of items. There is also a room with artefacts found on the site that helps add to the history of the castle.

Ian Fry (10 months ago)
Great little castle with a surprisingly good view from the top. It is higher than you think. Not the largest of sites but still enjoyed my visit here. It is part of English Heritage. Note that there are no toilets or cafe on site. The staff member at the front/shop was really friendly and welcoming.

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