Local story
Gateway to Cornwall
Launceston is Cornwall's ancient gateway town: Norman castle above the Kensey valley, market streets, and surrounding rural parishes on the Devon border.
Castle, market streets and border parishes at Cornwall's north eastern gateway.
Launceston works well as an arrival base. Castle parking and market days are busiest in peak season.
Start with the castle and town centre, then explore surrounding rural parishes.
Valley countryside and Cornwall walking routes via Cornish.co.uk maps only when verified.
Around Launceston, useful local places include Lawhitton, St Stephens, St Thomas and South Petherwin. Open Discover & connect for the parish list, or use the interactive map to see how they sit together.
Launceston also works as a base for days in Callington, Bodmin and Camelford. Each has its own town page if you want to continue from here.
Use Cornish.co.uk to find places to stay, food and drink and things to do around Launceston. Open the interactive map for pins, or jump to Cornwall walks and local services. Discover & connect lists neighbouring towns and parishes.
