We are looking across the rooftops of the town of Launceston towards the slightly imposing structure of Launceston Castle, found in eastern Cornwall. Towering over the landscape from its raised mound, the castle is absolutely ancient, having been built shortly after the Norman Conquest, possibly as early as 1067, by the half-brother of William the Conqueror. Its height and location near the River Tamar, which marks the border between Devon and Cornwall, rendered it strategically important in the management of river crossings between the two counties. However, this was just one of the many uses the castle has been put to over the years, some of which include place of execution, prison, and military stronghold.

The sky is reflected in the glassy surface of the Upper Tamar Lake, found near the village of Kilkhampton in northern Cornwall. You can find out more about this location here.

This is simply a part of the magnificent Upper Tamar Lake, roughly 3 miles from the village of Kilkhampton in the north of Cornwall. This lake is one of a pair that sit on the Devon and Cornwall border, with the smaller Lower Tamar Lake used predominantly as a wildlife reserve. This larger lake is popular with fishing and water-sports enthusiasts, and has been known to yield carp up to 46 lbs. However, its natural beauty should not be underestimated, with its lakeside walk offering stunning panoramic views of both the water and the surrounding countryside. Expect to encounter waterfowl, and the occasional cow. Bring sturdy shoes and maybe a packed lunch if you plan to tackle its lakeside walk (especially if you’re also expected to push your grandmother in her wheelchair around the entire circumference of the lake, which I unfortunately was!)