Lostwithiel is a small town in Cornwall, nestled almost at the tip of the estuary of River Fowey. According to popular belief amongst the 17th century locals, Lostwithiel in Roman literally mean ‘the lost lion’. This Cornish town still boasts of an old yet strong 12th century bridge across the River Fowey, the Tudor Bridge. This place also has some iconic buildings of historic relevance like, the Old Duchy Palace, the Old Fire Station and the Methodist Church in Queen’s street.
Lostwithiel is now more famous for its cultural activities and festivals happening almost year round. It organizes the annual beer festival, an art and craft festival, a week-long food and cider festival and many more during the summers as well as winters.
The Restormel Castle attracts the maximum tourists. This 13th century English Castle though in ruins is worth a visit. The ruins have been carefully managed and maintained and this circular castle is a treat for the eyes as one could just get transported back in time while taking a walk around the greenery. The locals often spend a lazy Sunday at the Castle grounds as it is a favourite picnic spot with ample car parking.
An exotic wedding venue location amongst wedding planners, the Boconnoc Gardens are very beautifully designed with rare and exotic flowers and plants as well as an in-house church. This lovely property is open for public when there are no events like weddings planned.
Museums are a great place to relive history. Opening its door to all without any entry fee the Lostwithiel Museum though small, is packed with exhibits of a bygone era. Some exhibits worth a mention include, memorabilia of World War I and World War II as well as the age-old Fire engine. The museum exhibits local Cornish history in full glory with most of the exhibits having been donated privately by the locals.
If you miss the Duchy of Cornwall Nursery and Café and you have missed quite a bit! It has plants, freshly cooked food and a great ambience for nature lovers. The nursery regularly caters to all the gardening needs of the town’s residents. The friendly staff will take you around their entire nursery for a brief introduction to the different segment plants and trees, which are at your perusal to buy. Revitalize yourself with some freshly cooked sumptuous food and a beverage while you are here.
A few renowned antique shops and fortnightly auctions by Jeffrey’s Auctions offers an amazing choice of collectibles for antique lovers.
Post an evening stroll, try out the Trewithen Restaurant for delicious lip-smacking sea food. They are known for their salmon, cod and mussels. This family run restaurant not only has a warm atmosphere greeting its many guests, but also extends its warmth through food, service and friendliness. Their deep-fried goat cheese is worth dying for.
Graham, the proprietor of Asquith’s will take you to a frenzy with his delicious cuisine. His personal touch and attention to details on every plate is felt as you enjoy the delicacies.
Earl of Chatham, one of the most happening pubs and will charm you with most awesome collection of local beers.
Spoil your girl at the country flowers and confectionery. Lazily browse through a huge collection of gifts to pick up souvenirs in this cute little place tucked away from the daily rush. Apart from food, flowers, sweets and gifts, they are renowned in the town for the best cup of coffee. Q Street Coffee will never disappoint you for sure. Your pet will be happy to know they too are equally welcome at this cute nook.
Our last, but not the least recommendation would be Bellamama Deli. Their pizzas on Friday and Saturday evenings are to die for.
Lostwithiel can be approached through road, rail and air. Lostwithiel railway station is well-connected to Plymouth and the National Express has good network via Plymouth. The Royal Talbot Hotel has a Bus station as well as a Coach stop.
All good things in life come in small packages and so does Loswithiel. At the face of it, Lostwithiel might look like a small gloomy town with very little to offer. Explore the untouched beauty of Loswithiel with its historic past and a reverberating present. Come explore the Cornish ways!