A seven-sided market cross stands in front of the former market hall in Grampound. It points to a central theme in the town’s history: Grampound originated as a planned medieval market town, laid out as a financial speculation by the Earl of Cornwall. Its market history, town plan and historic buildings give the place distinct, tangible facets.
Market Town, Charter and Town Plan
The first Borough Charter, issued in 1332, granted the citizens of Grampound the right to hold a weekly market and two annual fairs. It may have confirmed existing arrangements. The year 1332 is therefore an important point in the recorded market history, but not necessarily its beginning: the possible confirmation of earlier arrangements leaves room for an older tradition.
Another clue lies in the medieval town plan. Long, narrow plot boundaries known as “burgage strips” have been preserved there. Taken together, the charter and the town plan show two sides of the town’s development: the charter represents market and fair rights, while the narrow plots preserve the inherited form of the town structure. The market cross in front of the former market hall adds another named reference to the market history.
Church Architecture and Community Hall
The Church of St Nun was built in 1869 on the site of a 15th-century chapel. Its distinctive architectural features include an apsidal east end with four ogee-headed lancet windows. Above them is tracery with quatrefoils.
The Town Hall and Clock Tower can also be dated, though with an important qualification: it probably dates from the early 18th century. Today the building is used as a community hall; public access arrangements may vary. The historic date remains a probable attribution, while its use as a community hall describes its current function.
History at the Heritage Centre and in the Village
The Heritage Centre brings together exhibits, information panels on the region’s history, a large photographic archive, films and digital stories. Groups can book a “Walk and Talk” event there. It includes a tour of historic sites in the village. As booking arrangements may change, it is advisable to check the options before making plans.
A recurring tradition with a practical connection to the town is the carnival procession: every year it brings the heavy traffic through Grampound to a stop. Specific event dates may change, so it is sensible to check them if you want to plan your visit around the event. Former industries are also part of the town’s history. The Croggan tannery flourished from 1711 and produced leather using the traditional oak-bark method.
The River Fal and Nearby Bells
The River Fal flows beneath the bridge at the lower end of Fore Street. Its upper reaches are described as a small white river.
In the vicinity of Grampound, St Crida's Church has two tenor bells dating from 1380 to 1420. They are considered probably the oldest in Cornwall. The bells offer another historical connection in the area; their dating and the cautiously worded attribution go together.
Discover more destinations: Leedstown, Lezant, Saint Mawgan, Wadebridge, Egloskerry, St Agnes, Bodmin, Penryn
For the main travel overview: Cornwall.
