You can still make out the ruins of Restormel's keep, gate and Great Hall, and even the kitchens and private rooms. They were built around 1100, making Restormel one of the oldest and best preserved Norman motte-and-bailey castles in Cornwall.

Its defences were perfect. The castle was built behind a 17 metre moat, upon slopes which were artificially steepened. These clearly acted as a powerful deterrent, for Restormel has seen action only once during its long history when Charles I's forces drove out the Parliamentarian garrison during the Civil War.

In the spring, Restormel Castle is surrounded by banks of daffodils and bluebells. It lies a mile to the north of the attractive medieval town of Lostwithiel.

Facilities.
Picnics welcome.
Toilets
Parking.

How to get there:
Road: 1½ m N of Lostwithiel off A390.