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Local Information for Launceston

Launceston is a town in the north of Cornwall, with a population of approximately 7,000. It is situated about four miles from the border with Devon at the River Tamar, and is known as the "gateway to Cornwall". The town was once also known as Dunheved

The town is built on the side of a large hill, so is almost immune to flooding, unlike the suburb of Newport, situated at the bottom of the hill, which is susceptible to flooding by the River Kensey.

The Norman castle which dominates the town is of motte-and-bailey design, and was built by Robert de Mortain, half-brother of William I, in 1087 to dominate the surrounding area.

During the reign of Henry III, a mint was established in Launceston. The fine Tudor church of St Mary Magdalene was built circa 1511 by Sir Henry Trecarrell as a memorial to his infant son who died whilst being bathed. The fine ornate carvings have withstood the test of time. The tower of the church dates from the 14th century, an earlier c...More