The pretty little UK town loved by royals with high street full of 40 independent shops
EXCLUSIVE: Locals can't get enough of their home town, which is a thriving and underrated spot.
Hidden in Cornwall is a stunning destination that’s often overlooked - but it’s one that’s filled with treasures for those who venture down to the south west. Lostwithiel is known for its beautiful scenery, quaint streets and strong sense of community. Locals are proud of their town, which dates back to the 12th century. Despite being an old town, there’s plenty of life in it yet, and it’s often cited as one of the most vibrant and lively communities in Cornwall.
The town has even been visited by the Royal Family. King Charles and Queen Camilla have often stayed at Restormel Manor, near the town, when they visit the county. Prince William and Princess Kate, as well as the Middletons, have also taken a holiday there, reports Cornwall Live. Restormel, in Cornish, means “king's tower hill”. The 500-year-old mansion, located in the Fowey Valley close to Lostwithiel, is owned by the Duchy of Cornwall.
For anyone planning a visit, tourists are spoilt for choice when it comes to what to do in the town. Whether visiting for the day or spending a longer time on holiday in the area, Lostwithiel is the ideal base to explore the countryside and discover the beautiful beaches of south east Cornwall.
For anyone looking to enjoy a quaint shopping experience, the town is filled with independent businesses - each with its own unique trade.
Speaking to The Express, Hayley Toms, who runs LilyBoo, a craft workshop company in the area, says: “We have run LilyBoo for four years now in Lostwithiel and couldn't ask for a more supportive community.
“Lostwithiel is a fantastic place to be based, alongside other independent shops within a town packed full of character and history.
“I think it is still a bit of a hidden gem and visitors are often surprised by what it offers.”
She says that she feels “very lucky” to be in a town with such a huge variety of shops, cafes and pubs.
Hayley adds: “With the River Fowey running through it and historical elements such as the medieval bridge and Restormel Castle.
“The community is great and there is always something going on whether it's a small group meeting for crafting, listening to talks, or gardening, or a big event such as Lost in Art, Lostfest or Dickensian.”
Like any other good town, Lostwithiel holds a popular farmer’s market, which is the longest-running traditional produce market in Cornwall.
At the market, tourists can find seasonal produce, bread, meat, preserves, cakes, arts, crafts and other locally produced goods.
It takes place on the 4th Saturday of the month throughout the year at Lostwithiel Scout Hut and is open from 10am until 1pm.
Speaking on behalf of the Lostwithiel Business Group, Alice Collyer, who owns a homeware shop called Alice in Scandiland, says: "What strikes me most about the town is how genuinely independent the high street still feels.
"Lostwithiel has resisted the kind of homogenisation that's hollowed out so many other small towns — the shops here are run by people who care deeply about what they sell and why. That's increasingly rare, and visitors seem to feel it the moment they arrive."
She adds that the town has a "quality" that she feels is hard to put into words. Alice says life in the town is "unhurried, characterful, quietly beautiful."
She says: "In terms of independent shops, I'd estimate there are up to 40 across the town centre — from award winning homeware shops, galleries, potters, antiques, a delicatessen, a butcher, cafes and restaurants. We also have four pubs, micro-breweries, riverside walks and local festivals.
"Lostwithiel punches well above its weight for a town of its size."
Alongside a spot of shopping in the area, visitors should take a trip to Restormel Castle, which is a 13th-century structure beside the River Fowey.
The castle is home to fantastic views of the surrounding area, making it an excellent picnic spot. Visitors on TripAdvisor say that, for the price, the castle is a must-visit and a “real treasure”.
But not only this, the town is just six miles from the coast - making a beach trip a popular choice for visitors.
Lostwithiel beach is a small shingle beach which is exposed near a medieval beach. For a bigger beach, there’s also nearby Polkerris, which is a tiny village with a small quay and sandy beach.
If you’re looking for a spot to enjoy a break this summer, Lostwithiel is a town that simply should not be overlooked.
