Launceston in Cornwall, England, United Kingdom — Northwestern Europe (the British Isles)

North Gate House

Photographed By Michael Herrick, August 4, 2018

1. North Gate House Marker

Inscription.
This was the main entrance into the castle from the town until the late 12th century.
Originally, there was a deep ditch around the castle crossed by a fortified bridge. This was destroyed when nearby Eagle House was built in the 18th century.
The long entrance passage was closed by at least one set of doors and a portcullis. The slot for the portcullis and the hinges for later doors, which replaced the portcullis, can still be seen.
The door to your left led into a room for the porter who controlled the gates. Beyond was a prison which continued in use long after the castle ceased to have any military function. In 1656 George Fox, the founder of the Quakers, was imprisoned here for eight months.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Forts and Castles. In addition, it is included in the Quakerism series list.

Location. 50° 38.262′ N, 4° 21.746′ W. Marker is in Launceston, England, in Cornwall. Marker can be reached from the intersection of Western Road and Dockey, on the left when traveling north. Located at Launceston Castle. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Launceston, England PL15 7DR, United Kingdom. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Dooms-Dale Launceston Castle (here, next to this marker); gorseth kernow

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(a few steps from this marker); Saint Cuthbert Mayne (a few steps from this marker); The Castle Courtyard in the 13th Century (within shouting distance of this marker); The Gate (within shouting distance of this marker); The development of the Castle (within shouting distance of this marker); The Landscape (within shouting distance of this marker); The Earl’s Chamber (about 90 meters away, measured in a direct line). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Launceston.

Also see . . . English Heritage - Launceston Castle. (Submitted on September 29, 2018, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut.)

Photographed By Michael Herrick, August 4, 2018

2. North Gate House Marker

North Gate House of Launceston Castle image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Michael Herrick, August 6, 2018

3. North Gate House of Launceston Castle

Credits. This page was last revised on January 27, 2022. It was originally submitted on September 29, 2018, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut. This page has been viewed 330 times since then and 13 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on September 29, 2018, by Michael Herrick of Southbury, Connecticut.