Cheap and Cheerful!
Sometimes its good to have an inexpensive day out and enjoy doing the simple things in life. Below is a list of things to do in the area which cost £1.00 or less. Stretch your imagination not your pocket!
- Buy a town or village trail (£1.00 or less) and learn lots of fascinating facts about the town or village your in.
- Pick up free walking leaflets from Launceston TIC and go for a walk. If its wet or cold dress up and enjoy the fresh air. Don't forget to take the dog!
- Feed the ducks at St Thomas, Launceston by the River Kensey. Cross the ancient packhorse bridge, used by monks long ago on their way to the nearby priory. Go and see the priory ruins, pick up a leaflet at Launceston TIC, you will be amazed to see how this area must have once looked!
- Visit Lawrence House Museum in Launceston. This child friendly museum is free entry (donations welcome) and hosts a mass of exhibits. Its one of the best in the country and has a Toy Room where children can view exhibits and play as well.
- Walk to Coronation Park and fly a kite or let off steam in the playground. The park is situated by the leisure centre which has a swimming pool. Charges apply for use of the leisure centre.
- Sit below Launceston Castle and enjoy a picnic. Entry to the Castle Green is free, have a look at the information plaques and imagine life when the Castle protected the Normans against marauders.
- Visit St Mary Magdalene Church in Launceston, one of the finest church's in the country. See the carved exterior, can you expect new clothes soon from simply throwing a stone over your back? Call in and get a leaflet before you visit - all will be explained!
- Walk up to the summit of Kit Hill with its chimney at the top, you can't miss it; its the highest point in the Tamar Valley; from here you can see Dartmoor, Bodmin Moor, Plymouth Sound and even the Eddystone Lighthouse.
- Pick up a Mining Heritage leaflet and explore the areas mining heritage, theres a lot to see.
- Cycle along the Tamar Trails. Whether your looking for a gentle ride or exhilarating mountain bike downhill track theres a trail for everyone.
- Walk or ride a horse along the Tamar Trails, see the autumnal foliage in its glory as summer fades.
- Collect the free Trails from the Track walk pack from the TIC then enjoy circular walks in beautiful countryside. All the trails start from a Railway Station in the Tamar Valley.
- Go to the beach, a great day out for everyone whatever the weather. Laze in the sun, build a sandcastle, discover crabs in rockpools, try surfing or simply blow away the cobwebs on a blustery day.
- Cycle the Camel Trail. 18 miles of almost traffic free flat route stretching from Blissland on Bodmin Moor to Padstow. Follow this disused railway line as it meanders through beautiful countryside. This is a multi use trail.
- Take a walk on Bodmin Moor, look for trout in the leats and streams that criss cross the moor.
- Enjoy a walk on Dartmoor, why not join a guided walk and hear about its history as you go.
- Visit The RAF Memorial Museum on Davidstow Moor. The museum provides a rich history, depicting the importance of the base during the Second World War. Entry is free although donations are welcome for the museum upkeep.
- Visit a lake. See the wildlife, follow the trails, learn about conservation. South West Lakes manages 50 inland waters. There are several in this area to be enjoyed.
- Visit Cotehele (parking charge applies) and watch the Tamar as it flows past. Stroll around the quay then head on the footpath to Calstock where the impressive viaduct straddles the river. At Calstock there is a great play area for the kids enjoy.
- Visit a festival, many events are free and there is usually something for everyone to enjoy.
- Go to a local community event, www.launceston-2020.co.uk has lots of local, interesting things to listed here.
- Look for a Farmers Market, you may be tempted to spend by the array of tasty local produce but everyone has to eat. Get your ingredients for the perfect picnic or meal here!
Call into Launceston Tourist Information Centre or browse the website for further information on the details listed above and many more besides. The TIC has a wide range of information. Staff are happy to provide ideas on things to do in the area and further afield.
Two Castles Trail
Beautiful, meandering walk through rolling countryside full of history. 24 miles in total, divided...






