Restormel Castle

The great 13th-century circular shell-keep of Restormel still encloses the principal rooms of the castle in remarkably good condition.

Restormel Castle sits high above the valley of the river Fowey. The picturesque ruins of the keep are now the only remains of a luxurious castle that once belonged to Edward of Woodstock, eldest son of Edward III.

The first castle on the site was probably built shortly after the Norman Conquest, but the present building dates from the 13th century. At this time, the nearby town of Lostwithiel was an important center of the tin industry, and it became one of the main administrative centers of Cornwall.

Today the remains of the castle rooms reveal clues to its past grandeur. Large fireplaces, high windows and the Great Hall, used for gatherings, give a sense of the once luxurious surroundings. One of the castle’s highlights is the wall walk around the inside of the keep, where you can imagine castle life bustling below you centuries ago. Climb up the stone staircase from the courtyard and you will be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The grounds are a haven for wildlife and birds, with beautiful spring flowers and plants all year round. Lucky visitors may also spot the 'Tetraphasis Obscurus', the 'Black Pheasant', sometimes found roaming the nearby woodland.

Don't miss:

• The bluebells, rhododendrons and daffodils in the spring
• The panoramic views of the countryside