This week, we reveal the colourful history of Launceston Castle. This site has served as the administrative headquarters for the Duchy of Cornwall, a courthouse, a prison, a pleasure garden and a Second World War hospital. The castle is also home to an intriguing collection of artefacts discovered during site excavations, including a near-complete whale vertebra measuring more than half-a-metre across.

Joining us to pick up the story are Curator of Collections Ian Leins and Head of Historic Properties for Cornwall and Devon Georgia Butters.

To discover more about Launceston Castle or plan a visit, go to www.english-heritage.org.uk/launceston

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Episode 206 - Launceston Castle and the whale