Restormel Castle, located near Lostwithiel in Cornwall, England, is one of the finest and best-preserved examples of a circular shell keep in the country. Perched on a natural hilltop above the River Fowey, it commands sweeping views over the surrounding valley and countryside. The castle was originally established shortly after the Norman Conquest as a motte-and-bailey fortification, but the impressive stone structure seen today was built in the late 13th century by Edmund, Earl of Cornwall. It served not only as a defensive fortress but also as a comfortable and prestigious residence, reflecting the wealth and influence of its owner.
The castle’s perfectly circular design is a rare and striking example of medieval military architecture. Its high curtain walls enclose a central courtyard, once surrounded by domestic buildings such as the great hall, kitchens, and private chambers. The inner layout reveals the sophistication of medieval life, blending practicality with elegance. Despite the passage of time and periods of abandonment, the stone walls and arched doorways still stand strong, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the past.
During the English Civil War, Restormel briefly regained military significance, serving as a Royalist stronghold before falling into decay. Today, managed by English Heritage, the castle is a peaceful ruin surrounded by rolling meadows and wildflowers. Visitors can walk along its ancient walls, take in panoramic views of the Cornish landscape, and imagine the days when knights, nobles, and servants filled its round courtyard with life and purpose. Restormel Castle remains a timeless symbol of Cornwall’s rich medieval history and enduring charm.
#drthehistories
Our March 2026 window display celebrates the 100th anniversary of #Lostwithiel#Bowling Club. The Club was formally established on January 18, 1926.
For more info see their website https://t.co/8RPYQfcfgc
#Cornwall
Every New Year’s Eve, the Cornish town of Lostwithiel holds a procession to celebrate the start of the New Year. As well as people, the procession includes many large puppets representing giants.
Find out more here https://t.co/4ix7UbWuKz
1832 print showing Restormel Castle, Cornwall by T Allom. Engraver, W Le Petit.
The castle is a notable example of a circular shell keep, a rare medieval design, located near Lostwithiel in Cornwall.
https://t.co/4QMD8IqMUX
#Lostwithiel#Museum are hosting a #VE80 exhibition in The Guildhall (above the museum) from 15 Nov to 14 Dec. Display features items from archives of @BodminKeep Opening times and more details at www.lostwithielmuseum (dot) org #Cornwall
At the talk and social event taking place in The Church Rooms #Lostwithiel at 7.00 pm on Tues 30 Sept 2025
Dr Lesley Trotter, @humblehist will be presenting a talk entitled ‘More than Deeds and Wills — Surprises from a Solicitor's Office’. (Image Credit: Karen Arnold CC0)
Much loved hardware store Watts Trading in #Lostwithiel closes after 21 years on the high street. Owners Denise and Tom are retiring. Listen to Julie's chat with Denise during her last day in the shop ⬇️ https://t.co/kh0ngS4e0d
🌊 From coast to countryside, Cornwall is packed with charm!
🏖️ St Ives – beaches & art
⚓ Falmouth – harbours & history
🏰 Tintagel – Arthurian legend
🌿 Lostwithiel – medieval heart
🌊 Newquay – surf capital
⛪ Truro – cathedral city
Every town tells its own Cornish story. ✨
#OTD – 31 August 1644 – the Battle of #Lostwithiel ended with a cavalry breakout, explosion and near ruin of the town, a ‘hedge to hedge’ fighting retreat, final stand at Castle Dore and the escape of the Earl of Essex from #Fowey in a fishing boat. #Cornwall
#OTD – 11 August 1644 – the Siege of #Lostwithiel and the battle for #Cornwall began with the capture of Respryn Bridge by the King’s Western Army. Parliament's largest army was encircled. The King left Liskeard and attended a service at #Boconnoc Church.
Use your mobile phone to follow the interactive Heritage Highlights Trail produced by the #Lostwithiel Town Team. This trail guides you through 20 key points of historical interest in Lostwithiel town centre. Details at https://t.co/ojugpeNZYN #Cornwall
One of the very few things I enjoy about there being no football on a Saturday is that I love getting out and about visiting random towns/villages that I haven’t been to before. Lostwithiel today ☀️