Launceston Area Guide

Located in Cornwall, close to the border of Cornwall and Devon 1 mile west of the middle stage of the River Tamar, is the market town, ancient borough, and civil parish of Launceston. The gateway to Cornwall, and junction point for north-south and east-west roads. 

Launceston is set within the stunning Tamar Valley amidst rolling countryside and conveniently situated between Dartmoor and Bodmin Moor. The town is within easy reach of the north and south Cornish coasts and perfect for exploring further into Cornwall or across the border into Devon. 

Launceston has become a shopping destination with something for everyone and attracts visitors from across the country. The town is filled with independent shops, selling unique crafts and gifts, and independent cafes, but has also attracted many national chains such as B&M, Marks and Spencer and Costa. Christmas late-night shopping is a highlight of the Launceston shopping calendar and there are also regular markets, with the town boasting award-winning local food producers. 

There are a wealth of things to do for all age groups and interests. There are many family attractions and activities, including Threthorne Leisure Park and Tamar Otter & Wildlife Centre. If history and heritage interests you Launceston has it in abundance. You can visit Launceston Castle, the Steam Railway, or the many museums in the area. 

For the sports enthusiast, Launceston is home to the Cornish All Blacks, a popular rugby union side, and Launceston Football Club. There are also many stunning golf courses in the area. 

Further entertainment is provided by Launceston Town Hall which regularly hosts comedians, music acts and craft fairs. Previous acts adorning the famous stage include comedians Jack Dee, Alan Carr and Jon Culshaw; a Queen, Carpenter and ABBA tribute act; comedian, writer and actor Griff Rhys Jones and singer/songwriter Seth Lakeman. 

There is a strong community spirit in Launceston, displayed perfectly with a wealth of local events and festivals across the year. The famous Charles Causley festival takes place every July celebrating arts and culture. The poet Charles Causley was a native and long-standing resident of the town where he was both born and died. 

Once the capital of Cornwall, the town is steeped in history. Once a strategic stronghold, the area has retained much of its ancient origins. This lovely market town has a landscape dominated by a Norman motte-and-bailey hilltop castle, built after the Norman conquest of England, following the capture of Exeter in 1068. Launceston also heavily features in Daphne du Maurier's famous novel Jamaica Inn. 

Kivells Director Daniel Stokes adds, “Launceston is a wonderful place to live and offers every different kind of property, from town-houses and detached bungalows to rural properties and farms. There is something for everyone in this ancient market town and its location means you are minutes from Devon and easily allows for exploration to every part of Cornwall.” 

Selling your property in Launceston? Kivells have unrivalled experience selling property in Devon and Cornwall since 1885. Contact us today for your free market appraisal on 01566 777 777 or email launceston@kivells.com.