Spend the morning trawling round the town’s numerous antique shops rummaging through what’s on offer. As it’s all about antiques in Lostwithiel, local auctioneers, Jeffery’s, holds fortnightly auctions of collectables at their auction rooms in South Street.
The 13th century ruin of Restormel Castle stands on a hill overlooking the town and is famous for its well-preserved defensive walls. Once the luxurious home of the Earls of Cornwall, a title in the past conferred on the heir to the throne, former residents include Edward the Black Prince who lived in the castle between 1354 and 1365
At the nearby Duchy Nursery you’ll find one of Cornwall’s best stocked nurseries. Take your pick from a huge collection of fuchsias, camellias, conifers, trees, shrubs and perennials and create that perfect Cornish garden back home. The cafe has stunning views across the valley to Restormel Castle.
Visit the town museum (free entry) in Fore Street and discover Lostwithiel’s heritage. Housed in the Georgian Corn Exchange and the adjoining former Town Gaol, artefacts donated by local people, including an original 18th century fire engine, retell the long history of the town. Open: Easter to end of September
Feed the ducks at Lerryn, a small village located on a wooded creek three miles away. If the tides out you can and cross the river on stepping stones, otherwise use the medieval bridge. The river and woods were thought to be the inspiration for Kenneth Grahame’s famous novel “Wind in the Willows”, and a walk through them leads to St Winnow and a museum of farming. A more tranquil setting, you’d be hard pushed to find. Cream teas are served from the local shop here at Homefront!
