At Lostwithiel, we looked at the outside of a property that had caught our interest online as we’re thinking of downsizing. The renovated church had sounded inspiring. But appealing as it looked, it didn’t take long to lose interest, as it didn’t have an outdoor space.
It’s a location I’ve been attracted to before. First of all, from my pottery-making days over twenty years ago, when selling giftware at the monthly local produce market in the community centre. It’s usually a busy hub, so I imagine residents are looking forward to it being used for all sorts of activities when restrictions ease.
It was around that time I learnt of nearby Restormel Castle and enjoyed family rambles there. It’s one of Cornwall’s most important historical structures, and the circular ruins built in the 13th century are impressive. The views look out towards the River Fowey and other beautiful scenery often mentioned in Daphne Du Maurier novels, especially ‘The Kings General’, one of my all-time favourites.
On other occasions, I’ve lunched with friends there, and when we had a new kitchen fitted, the independent outlets were great for sourcing kitchen utensils. The Victorian copper kettle, 1920s food mincer, and 1950s hand mixer, all hang happily above the hob, alongside contemporary items purchased from the general store selling a mixture of goods.
So after assessing the apartment wasn’t suitable, we decided to investigate further and wandered through the streets. Past Edgecumbe House, Taprell House, which is now a library, and under an arched alleyway down to the water.
On the opposite bank, the buildings renovated for residential purposes were designed by Brunel, and originally used by GWR when trains first steamed through Lostwithiel in 1859. The modern railway station is situated behind. April’s edition of the ‘Lostwithiel Newsletter’ calls it ‘Lostwithiel – A Railway Town’, now I understand why.
The stone Medieval Bridge spans the River Fowey which has changed course over the years. More arches have been added and are green-tinged at the base where the current flows. Picnic tables are placed on the beach and to the right is a garden with a small Celtic cross standing in the middle. It is dedicated to the British Legion and was opened by Lady Robartes. A name I remember from the National Trust’s Lanhydrock House, situated a few miles away.
A track under the bridge took us through a tunnel and along the riverbank to a children’s recreational ground and parkland. Clumps of bluebells greeted us as we wandered further. The path took us around in a loop, where two sculptures at either end of the land seemed out of place, but intriguing.
After a longer than expected outing, it was back to the car where we saw the museum on the way. It’s not surprising the old stannary town has one. With so much local history to celebrate, it’s on my list of places I plan on visiting when open again.
Until next time.
Sue. X