An impressive 13th-century castle, Rertormel is remarkably well kept, with a fully-enclosed keep. Standing on an earlier Norman mound with a ditch, it sits beside the River Fowey and boasts fantastic views – making it a perfect picnic spot! Swathed in flowers during the spring, it’s also home to the rare “Black Pheasant” which can be seen in autumn.
Take time to explore the castle; take the wall walk around the inside of the keep. Originally built to protect against invaders, it now offers glorious countryside views. Peek into the once stately rooms and Great Hall and imagine what it must have been like in its heyday when the notorious ‘Black Prince’ visited in 1354 and 1362.
Run by the English Heritage, there’s a small shop selling gifts, a great picnic area and free parking. Dogs on leads are welcome.
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Restormel Castle, Nr Restormel Road, Lostwithiel PL22 0EE | www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/restormel-castle/
