Welcome to Launceston
Originally named ‘Lanstefan’ (Land of St Stephen). You will notice that St Cuthbert Mayne Church is situated in St Stephen’s village. This was the original Launceston until the Castle was built in the 11th Century, and the population increased on the other side of the Kensey valley.
It is certainly worthwhile exploring the sites connected with our local saint, Cuthbert Mayne, secondary patron of the Diocese of Plymouth. Then, if you have the time, relax and take in some of the other places of interest too.
There are a number of sites in the town which are significant in the life and martyrdom of St Cuthbert Mayne:
1. St Cuthbert Mayne Church on St Stephen’s Hill is the National Shrine of St Cuthbert Mayne and a special place of pilgrimage. The Church is usually open during the day. A group of pilgrims should book ahead. If you want someone available to show you around, please give us good notice. We do hold the holy relic of St Cuthbert Mayne’s skull which can be made available for veneration given that we have prior notice.
2. Launceston Priory. The Priory ruins we see today are all that remain of the original Priory. The Priory was founded in 1127 as a house of Augustinian canons, dedicated to St. Stephen the Proto-Martyr and consecrated in 1155. In the mid 1500’s, Launceston Priory was the wealthiest and largest religious house in Cornwall.
3. Launceston Castle dungeon on the Castle Green where St Cuthbert was imprisoned for three months.
4. Launceston town square and place of execution. In 2008 a memorial plaque was unveiled in the town square at the spot where he was executed.
5. The Castle Exhibition which traces the Castle’s 1000 year history, is situated at the entrance to the English Heritage site of the castle on the Green. The exhibition includes a display and information about St Cuthbert.
Other sites of interest in the town include Launceston Castle. At the base of the Castle is a wonderfully peaceful Green, with panoramic views of the Cornish countryside. There is also the Church of England Church of St Mary Magdelen. The building of the Church was begun before the Reformation and completed afterwards. There is an intriguing statue of St Mary Magdalen on the outside of the Eastern wall. It has some interesting traditional customs associated with it which you may wish to discover.
Places to be fed and watered. There are several pubs around the town. The beer is good, but I haven’t yet sampled the food if, indeed, they serve food. You can, however, enjoy a good lunch at The Eagle House Hotel. Go through to the balcony and you will be treated with more great views of the surrounding area. There are also several Takeaways and Cafes in the town.
You might prefer bringing your own food or buying some goodies at the COOP on the Town Square and enjoy a picnic on the Castle Green.
Wishing you a very enjoyable and holy visit to Launceston.
Canon John Deeny
