Poundstock

The unusual Guildhouse, found here in a wooded hollow, is the only surviving one of its kind in Cornwall. It was constructed in the 14th century, probably to house the masons working on the building of St Winwaloe’s Parish Church. It remains a fine example of a once common style of non-secular building. After the church had been built the guildhouse became a meeting place; over the years it has also acted as a poorhouse and a village school.

Nearby, Penfound Manor is reputed to be the oldest inhabited house in England, with parts of it dating from Saxon times. It is said that William the Conqueror gave it to his half brother Robert. Ghost stories reveal that the Manor is haunted by the ghost of Kate Penfound, who was killed by her own father (a Royalist) while trying to elope with John Trebarfoot, a Parliamentarian. Her father and John then fought, each dying from wounds they received.

Available Guidebooks for this region:

Digital Editions by county of the Hidden Places Guides are available Free of Charge. To download please Click Here