Besides great sights, an interesting history and many exciting destinations, Calstock has a lot more to offer. Here you will find many helpful tips to enjoy your vacation in Calstock.
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Sights in Calstock
Calstock is a picturesque village in Cornwall, England, situated on the River Tamar. It lies within the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and is approximately 12 miles northwest of Tavistock.
The village has a medieval church, St Andrews, which is grade I listed. The churchyard contains the war memorial, which is grade II listed. The village also has a public house, the Tavy Inn, and a primary school.
The Tamar Valley Railway passes through the village and there is a station. The railway line follows the River Tamar and links the villages of Bere Alston and Gunnislake.
Calstock is surrounded by countryside and there are many walks in the area. The War Memorial Walk is a short walk that takes in the sights of the river and the churchyard. There is also a longer walk to Stocksbridge Quarry, which takes in some of the stunning views of the valley.
The village is popular with tourists and is a perfect base for exploring the Tamar Valley.
History of Calstock
The area of the present day town of Calstock in southeast Cornwall, England was first inhabited in the Neolithic era. The earliest evidence for human activity in the area comes in the form of chipping tools found in the alluvial deposits of the Tamar valley. These have been dated to between 3400 and 2800 BC.
The Bronze Age saw the construction of a number of round houses in the area and the introduction of new farming practices. These new settlements were located on higher ground above the flood plain of the river Tamar. One such settlement, located on the western edge of Calstock, is thought to date to around 1000 BC.
The Iron Age saw the further development of farmsteads in the area as well as the construction of defensive hillforts. The hillfort at Cairnpapple, located just to the north of Calstock, is thought to date to around 500 BC.
At the time of the Roman invasion of Britain in the 1st century AD there were a number of small settlements in the area, including a small fort at Berry Down. These settlements were located close to the river Crossing places, such as the one at Calstock, which served as crossing points for the river Tamar.
The Roman presence in the area was relatively shortlived and by the 5th century AD the settlements in the area had largely been abandoned.
During the Early Middle Ages the area was once again settled, this time by the AngloSaxons. The town of Calstock is thought to have been founded by the Saxons sometime in the 7th century AD.
The town grew up around the river Crossing and became an important market town. It was also the site of a mint, first established in the late 9th century.
The town was captured by the Danes in 875 AD but was retaken by the Saxons soon afterwards. It was then captured by the Normans in 1067.
Calstock remained under Norman control until the 13th century when it was captured by the rebel leader Simon de Montfort. The town then changed hands a number of times during the course of the Baron’s War before being recaptured by the Royalists in 1643.
During the 18th and 19th centuries the town grew steadily as a result of the increasing industrialisation of the Tamar valley. The coming of the railway in the 1850s further boosted the town’s economy.
Today Calstock is a thriving market town with a population of around 3,000. It is home to a number of businesses and amenities as well as a number of historic buildings, including the 13th century Norman castle and the Grade I listed Anglican parish church of St James.
Vacation in Calstock
Calstock is a lovely little town in Cornwall, England. With its quaint shops and cafés, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing holiday. There are plenty of things to see and do in Calstock, and the surrounding area. Here are just a few ideas to get you started.
The Royal Albert Bridge is a mustsee while in Calstock. Spanning the River Tamar, it was built in the 19th century and is now a Grade I listed structure. You can take a train ride across the bridge, or just walk or cycle across it and enjoy the views.
If you’re a fan of gardens, the Kitchen Garden at Calstock Hall is well worth a visit. This threeacre walled garden is full of fruit trees, vegetables, and herbs, and is open to the public from April to September.
For a taste of history, pay a visit to Cotehele Quay. This working quay was once used for loading and unloading cargo, and is now home to a small museum and café. You can also take a boat trip from here up the River Tamar.
For something a bit different, why not try your hand at standup paddle boarding? Calstock is home to the UK’s first SUP school, so it’s the perfect place to learn. Or, if you’re feeling more energetic, you could go for a hike or cycle in the nearby Tamar Valley.
There are plenty of other things to do in Calstock, and the surrounding area. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a wonderful holiday here.
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