Launceston is a town where history is etched into every stone. As the ancient capital of Cornwall, it is dominated by its Norman castle and filled with medieval architecture that rivals any in the county. But it isn’t all about the past; with vintage trains and vibrant leisure parks, it offers plenty of entertainment for modern visitors too.
Here is our curated guide to the best things to do in and around Launceston.
Our Top Picks
To truly understand the importance of this town, you need to visit its two biggest attractions: the fortress on the hill and the railway in the valley.
1. Launceston Castle
Set on a large natural mound, Launceston Castle dominates the skyline. Managed by English Heritage, it was once the seat of the Earls of Cornwall and a formidable prison (where George Fox, founder of the Quakers, was once held).
- The Experience: Climb the dark, spiral staircase to the top of the round tower. From here, you get panoramic views across the town and over the border into Devon.
- The Highlight: The grounds are perfect for a picnic, offering a peaceful green space right in the centre of town.
- Website: Launceston Castle
2. Launceston Steam Railway
Just down the hill, the Launceston Steam Railway offers a nostalgic journey back in time. The narrow-gauge railway runs from the town to the hamlet of Newmills, using locomotives built in the late 19th century.
- The Experience: It is a delightful 5-mile round trip through the Kensey Valley. At the Newmills end, there is a riverside park perfect for children to run around.
- The Highlight: The attached transport museum, which houses a fascinating collection of vintage cars and motorbikes.
- Website: Launceston Steam Railway
Architecture & Heritage
St Mary Magdalene Church
You don’t need to be religious to appreciate St Mary Magdalene Church. It is widely considered one of the most beautiful churches in Cornwall, thanks to its entire exterior being covered in intricate granite carvings.
- The Experience: Walk around the outside and look closely at the walls. Every inch is carved with figures, ferns, and coats of arms—a masterpiece of medieval craftsmanship.
- The Highlight: The recumbent figure of Mary Magdalene on the east wall, which has weathered centuries of Cornish rain.
- Website: St Mary Magdalene Church
Lawrence House Museum
Located in a fine Georgian house on Castle Street, Lawrence House Museum is a treasure trove of local history. It is run by the National Trust but managed by the town council.
- The Experience: Explore the period rooms to see how a wealthy Georgian family lived, and discover exhibits on everything from the English Civil War to local toy manufacturing.
- The Highlight: The collection of costumes, which gives a vivid insight into the fashion of 18th and 19th-century Cornwall.
- Website: Lawrence House Museum