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Piers Layburn Assoc RICS MNAEA, Associate Partner and Launceston Office and Sales Manager, shines a spotlight on the ancient market town known as the "Gateway to Cornwall".
I’m very lucky to work in an area that is relatively undiscovered by those outside the region, yet offers so much.
But what are the five reasons buyers often target our delightful part of Cornwall?
1. History
Launceston was once the ancient capital of Cornwall. The town offers an abundance of history, a central feature of this being the town’s castle which was constructed just after the Norman conquest and was built by William the Conqueror’s half-brother. The castle was then extensively overhauled in the 13th century.
The castle today offers an interesting example of Launceston’s past and the tower, which still dominates the Launceston skyline, provides an absolute “must” on any visit, with the view from the top offering far-reaching 360-degree views.
2. Access
Launceston is located in East Cornwall, only a few miles from the river Tamar, which forms the border with Devon. The A30, one of the key arterial routes in and out of the county, is accessed via the town and provides connectivity to the cathedral cities of Exeter and Truro, which can both be reached in about 40 minutes.
The recently reopened Okehampton train station is around 25 minutes away, with regular services to London Paddington (changing at Exeter St. Davids).
3. Location
The town occupies a position on the side of a large hill between Dartmoor and Bodmin Moor. It offers a huge variety of outdoor pursuits and is nearly equidistant from both the North and South Cornish coasts with their extensive sandy beaches and coastal walks.
4. Recreational Facilities
Launceston is a well-known market town and is the main shopping centre for the surrounding rural areas of West Devon and East Cornwall.
The town's population of approximately 8,000 has access to a wide range of recreational facilities, including a fully equipped leisure centre, two golf courses and numerous sporting and social clubs including the renowned Launceston RFC.
5. Of course, the Property
The sheer variety of property we deal with across the Launceston area is what makes our jobs so enjoyable. The long history of the area and proximity to the Devon border means that we visit properties varying from listed thatched cottages dating back hundreds of years to Georgian rectories, Victorian farmhouses and modern contemporary coastal properties, plus much more.
If you are looking for a property that offers genuine character, be that modern or with history, in a rural part of the South West with access to some of the most impressive coastlines and moors, Launceston is worth exploring.
If you are considering a move to or within the East Cornwall/West Devon area, please contact Stags Launceston office on 01566 774999 or by email launceston@stags.co.uk.
