Best attractions and places to see around St. Stephens By Launceston Rural include a mix of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural sites in east Cornwall. This civil parish offers a blend of ancient heritage and opportunities for outdoor activities. The area features significant historical structures and natural landscapes, including the River Tamar forming its eastern boundary. Visitors can explore various sites that highlight the region's past and its natural environment.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
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St Nonna's Church is an impressive sight and known locally as the 'Cathedral of the Moors'. The church was built in the 15th century with local granite from the moors. St Nonna was the mother of St David, who travelled through Cornwall as a Celtic missionary on her way to Europe around the year 527. It is well worth a visit inside the church to see the carved bench ends, the square Norman font and the timber beams.
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Once the ancient capital of Cornwall, Launceston is a market town with steep sided hills. It is often thought of as the gateway to Cornwall.
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Launceston Castle was built shortly after the Norman Conquest in 1068. It's towering position high above the town means it can be seen from miles around. Launceston was once the capital of Cornwall but when this was changed to Bodmin, the castle fell into disrepair. It was used as a jail and then to host assizes, courts held in county towns presided over by a visiting judge.
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Picturesque freshwater lake. The largest freshwater lake in the Southwest. The lake has a large activity centre. Canoeing, fishing, archery and windsurfing amongst others. The centre also has a fantastic cafe serving quality freshly prepared food and drink.
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Standing at 246 meters (807 feet), Warbstow Bury is an Iron Age hillfort which would once have provided an important defence to the area. Covering 19 acres, the fort is one of the biggest earthworks in Cornwall. You can visit the two ramparts and ditches and explore the area via the many foot paths.
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The area is rich in history. You can explore the ancient Iron Age hillfort, Warbstow Bury Hillfort, one of Cornwall's largest earthworks. Another significant site is St Nonna's Church, known as the 'Cathedral of the Moors', with its 15th-century granite structure and carved features. Nearby, Launceston Castle, a Norman-era fortress, offers a glimpse into the region's past as the former capital of Cornwall.
For natural beauty, visit Warbstow Bury Hillfort, which offers expansive views from its 246-meter elevation. The Upper Tamar Lake is the largest freshwater lake in the Southwest, perfect for enjoying the outdoors. You can also explore the Kensey Valley, known for its significant landscape value, or the St. Stephen's Nature Trail, which features a Labyrinth for relaxation.
Yes, there are several options for families. The Upper Tamar Lake offers an activity center with canoeing, fishing, archery, and windsurfing. Nearby, Hidden Valley Discovery Park provides parks and playgrounds, while Trethorne Leisure Park features farms, pastures, and indoor play areas. St Nonna's Church and Launceston Town Square Monument are also considered family-friendly historical sites.
The area offers a variety of walking and hiking opportunities. You can explore the footpaths around Warbstow Bury Hillfort. The St. Stephen's Nature Trail is an approximately two-mile-long path for public enjoyment. For more structured routes, consider exploring the hiking options listed in the Hiking around St. Stephens By Launceston Rural guide, which includes easy and moderate trails like the 'Great Hall loop from Launceston' or the 'Launceston Castle loop'.
The Upper Tamar Lake Café is a great option, serving quality freshly prepared food and drink by the picturesque freshwater lake. The nearby town of Launceston also offers various cafes and pubs.
Yes, there are several cycling routes available. You can find detailed options in the Cycling around St. Stephens By Launceston Rural guide, which includes routes like the 'Warbstow Bury loop from Launceston' and the 'River Tamar loop'. For road cycling enthusiasts, the Road Cycling Routes around St. Stephens By Launceston Rural guide features routes such as 'Widemouth Bay & Bude loop from Launceston'.
St Nonna's Church is locally known as the 'Cathedral of the Moors' due to its impressive 15th-century architecture built with local granite. It holds historical importance as St Nonna, the mother of St David, is believed to have traveled through Cornwall as a Celtic missionary around 527 AD. Inside, visitors can admire carved bench ends, a square Norman font, and original timber beams.
Beyond the main attractions, you might be interested in St Stephens's Holy Well, a medieval site near Launceston that predates the town. Yeolmbridge on the River Tamar boasts the oldest bridge in Cornwall with two pointed arches. Also, Truscott Village Pond is the only one of its kind remaining in North Cornwall and is recognized as an 'Historic Environment'.
The Upper Tamar Lake is the largest freshwater lake in the Southwest and offers a wide range of activities. Its activity center provides opportunities for canoeing, fishing, archery, and windsurfing. There's also a café serving fresh food and drink, making it a great spot for both adventure and relaxation.
Yes, the Davidstow Airfield and Cornwall at War Museum is located nearby, offering insights into wartime history and the region's role during conflicts.
For those looking for indoor activities, The Barn Climbing Centre is available nearby, offering facilities for climbing enthusiasts.
The Launceston Town Square Monument is a point of interest in the market town of Launceston. The town itself was once the ancient capital of Cornwall and is often considered the gateway to the region, making the monument a good starting point for exploring its historical significance.


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