Lostwithiel is an exceptional place for several reasons. Founded not long after the Norman Conquest, it was built by the lords of nearby Restormel Castle and became the capital of Cornwall in the 13th century. Today it still contains several historic buildings and the pack-horse bridge over the River Fowey at its tidal limit. The Fowey was mighty full due to the wet weather up on Bodmin Moor and was threatening to flood low-lying land by its banks.

Lostwithiel is one of the Stannary Towns in Cornwall and was the scene of an important battle between the Roundheads and Cavaliers in 1644 (the Cavaliers won). An unusual fact of Lostwithiel is the coincidence of the St Michael and St Mary currents, or ley lines, at the church which itself contains some intriguing features. These currents course from near Land's End all the way to the Norfolk coast. St Michael runs along the road over the bridge and past the Globe Inn while St Mary goes right through the King's Arms and runs across the railway station by the scaffolding footbridge.

Members of Cornwall Branch converged on the Royal Oak in Duke Street on Saturday 6 December 2025 to enjoy our CAMRA Christmas Lunch, which has become a regular event in recent years. Thanks to Roger Webster for organising it.

The owners Graham and Simon put on two extra beers for our delectation in addition to the regular Sharp’s Doom Bar, Sea Fury, and St Austell Proper Job. The two beers were both from the local Castle Brewery in Lostwithiel, Daymark, a 5.1% red ale on handpump, and Du Fowen, a 4.5% chocolate stout with light smokiness served as live beer in bottle.

In the restaurant, we enjoyed an excellent two or three-course Christmas lunch with all the trimmings. Didn’t we have a good time!

Acting Branch Chairman Dave makes a Christmas speech.

After the meal, we retired to the bar for another pint and a chat.

Three cheers for Graham, Simon and staff, including those in the kitchen unseen!

After leaving the Royal Oak, several members took up the invitation from Andy and Nicky, the owners of Castle Brewery, to call in for a pint at the brewery tap, called the Flow and Tracks. This unusual bar, which is near the brewery but not in it, comprises a shipping container on the banks of the river that has been nicely fitted out as a nano-pub with bar, plus seating under a pergola and even a warming patio heater.

Care was needed to be taken when leaving the Tap not to walk straight on in the dark into the river, leading to an unscheduled visit to Fowey or even Davy Jones’ Locker.

Thanks again Roger for organising a jolly day out. We look forward to next year!

Cheers, Steve Barber