Lostwithiel

Lostwithiel is a market town in central Cornwall, set on the River Fowey and once the medieval capital of Cornwall. The Duchy Palace was built here in the 13th century when the town controlled the tin trade as a stannary town, and the Duchy of Cornwall still maintains offices in the town today. Antique shops line Fore Street - Lostwithiel calls itself the Antique Capital of Cornwall - and a well-regarded farmers’ market runs regularly.

Things to Do

Restormel Castle, managed by English Heritage, stands on a hilltop just over a mile from the town centre. Its circular stone keep dates to the 13th century and is one of the best-preserved Norman motte-and-bailey castles in Cornwall. Lanhydrock, a grand National Trust house and estate, is roughly 3 miles north. St Bartholomew’s Church in the centre of town is a fine 13th-century building with a distinctive octagonal spire. The Duchy of Cornwall Nursery, on the edge of town, combines a plant centre with a cafe serving locally sourced food.

Where to Stay

Around 33 holiday properties are available in the Lostwithiel area, mostly rural cottages and converted farm buildings. The town sits roughly midway between the north and south coasts, making it a practical inland base. Fowey is about 6 miles south, the Eden Project 5 miles west, and Bodmin 6 miles north.

Getting Here

Lostwithiel has its own station on the main London Paddington to Penzance line, making it one of the better-connected small towns in Cornwall by rail. The A390 passes through the town, linking it to St Austell to the west and Liskeard to the east. The Camel Trail at Bodmin is a short drive north.