Restormel Castle is sited on a hill above the River Fowey, 1½
miles north of Lostwithiel. The Normans probably built the first castle
in about 1100, but this wooden castle was replaced in the 13th century
by a new stone construction.
Restormel has the best example of a shell keep in the country. The walls
of the circular keep are over 2.4m (8ft) thick and 7.6m (25ft) tall, and
are surrounded by a moat. Within this shell a series of buildings were
constructed that butted up against the wall, forming the kitchen, great
hall, and living quarters.
The stone keep would have been an impressive residence and was probably
built as a symbol of status and power rather than a fortress. The only
military action the castle ever saw was during the Civil War, many years
after the castle had already fallen into ruin.
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Visitor
Information |
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Please contact the
property or visit their official website for the latest opening
times and price of admission www.english-heritage.org.uk |
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Tel: 01208
872687 |
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customers@english-heritage.org.uk |
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There is a car park |
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Parking: 200m
from entrance; 3 steps on path although alternative access available
via ramp by prior arrangement.
Access to castle: The ground floor, from which the layout
of the castle can be appreciated, is mainly grass and gravel. The
battlements are cobbled and reached via a wooden staircase which
is slippery when wet. There is level access to the shop.
Grounds: All accessible on smooth level grass. The sloping
lawns are slippery when wet.
Visually impaired visitors: There is a sheer drop to the
moat area from the grounds.
Toilets: Not adapted |
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There are toilets |
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There is a shop |
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Snacks available from
kiosk |
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Suitable for picnics |
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Dogs allowed on leads |
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No guided tours |
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No audio tours |
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