Historic Days Out
Charlestown Shipwreck & Heritage Centre
This Centre has the biggest collection of shipwreck artefacts on public display in Europe. You will also get a fascinating insight into how people used to live in this Cornish port. Find out about the china clay and other mining industries, maritime history, diving, medicine, the history of gas and lots more.
There are artefacts from over 150 shipwrecks, including the Titanic.
Charlestown Shipwreck and Heritage Centre
Quay Road
Charlestown
St. Austell
Cornwall
United Kingdom
PL25 3NJ
Tel: 01726 69897
Website: www.shipwreckcharlestown.com
Email: admin@shipwreckcharlestown.com
Distance: 5 miles
Restormel Castle
Now cared for by English Heritage, Restormel Castle was originally built by the Normans, with the impressive circular stone keep built later, in the 13th century. It overlooks the River Fowey one mile upriver from Lostwithiel. You can still make out the ruins of Restormel's keep, gate and Great Hall, and even the kitchens and private rooms.
In spring, the Castle is surrounded by carpets of daffodils and bluebells. And the castle commands amazing views, which make this a lovely picnic spot. There are also regular events, such as outdoor theatre, for which Restormel Castle provides an impressive backdrop.
Restormel Castle
Lostwithiel
PL22 0EE
Tel: 01208 872687
Website: www.english-heritage.org.uk
Distance: 7 miles
Lanhydrock House and Gardens
Owned by the National Trust, Lanhydrock is a beautiful late Victorian country house, with extensive servants quarters, beautiful gardens and a woodland estate. The gardens are renowned for their spring time displays of magnolia flowers and bluebells. There is also an adventure playground to keep the children amused, and refreshments are available.
Lanhydrock House
Bodmin
Cornwall
PL30 5AD
Tel: 01208 265950
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Email: lanhydrock@nationaltrust.org.uk
Distance: 9 miles
Bodmin and Wenford Railway
A Standard Gauge Railway that operates old fashioned steam trains. Enjoy a trip through the beautiful Cornish countryside.
There are many special events throughout the year. Eat in first class style on the luncheon dining train, or enjoy a murder mystery evening on board. There are Jazz and Beer festivals, Meet Paddington Bear at the station and loads more events. They even have discos on the train!
Bodmin & Wenford Railway
Bodmin General Station
Bodmin
Cornwall
PL31 1AQ
Tel: 01208 73555
Website: www.bodminrailway.co.uk
Distance: 10 miles
Bodmin Jail
Bodmin Jail, which closed in 1927, is now a truly fascinating, spine tingling visitor attraction. As well as learning about the gruesome history of the jail, there is a museum and a really fantastic licensed restaurant.You can also enjoy an overnight paranormal ghost hunt!
The jail is beside the Camel Trail, which is a popular trail for cyclists and walkers, as it is car-free and level.
Bodmin Jail
Berrycoombe Road
Bodmin
Cornwall
PL31 2NR
Tel: 01208 76292
Website: www.bodminjail.org
Email: info@bodminjail.org
Distance:11 miles
The Courthouse Experience
Making history come alive before your very eyes, at the Courthouse Experience in Bodmin Old Shire Hall, you get the chance to partake in a re-enactment of a real historical court case.
Who murdered Charlotte Dymond in 1844? You play the part of the jury in this famous Victorian murder case. You can also take a tour of the holding cells beneath the courthouse. A session is held every hour throughout the summer opening times. Charlotte Dymond Murder Trail leaflets are also available.
The Courthouse Experience
The Shire Hall
Mount Folly
Bodmin
Cornwall
PL31 2DQ
Tel: 01208 76616
Website: www.bodmin.gov.uk
Email: bodmintic@visit.org.uk
Distance: 11 miles
Tintagel Castle
The ruins of Tintagel Castle are set in the dramatic landscape of the North Cornish coast, which is diverse in plants and wildlife. The rugged coastline in this area is breathtaking and there are many interesting walks around the castle and the coast.
Tintagel itself is steeped in history and best known for its association with Arthurian legend. The remains of the present castle date back to the 13th century. Below the castle, the pebbly Castle Beach is worth a visit, where you can see Merlin's Cave, when the tide permits.
The castle is now cared for by English Heritage who provide a visitor centre, with an introductory video, activity sheets, and a gift shop. There are also special events for children and adults throughout the season.
Tintagel
Cornwall
Website: www.english-heritage.org.uk/tintagel
Distance: 30 miles
St Michael's Mount
Discover over a thousand years of legend and myth at the beautiful island of St Michael's Mount. Getting to St Michael's Mount is always an adventure; you can either walk the causeway at low tide or take a short motor boat trip at other times. The ancient cobbled paths lead to an imposing medieval castle set in stunning gardens. There is a cafe and restaurant on the Mount which you may choose to relax in.
St Michaels Mount
Manor Office
Marazion
Cornwall
TR17 0EF
Tel: 01736 710507 / 01736 710265 (tide and ferry info)
Website: www.stmichaelsmount.co.uk
Email: mail@stmichaelsmount.co.uk
Distance: 53 miles