Tintagel Castle | English Heritage

The coastline of North Cornwall is stunning. And set high on this rugged coast are the ruins of Tintagel Castle. Shrouded in myths and mystery, a visit to Tintagel Castle (an English Heritage Site) is highly recommended. The castle lends itself to the legend of King Arthur and many tourists visit the castle to explore the King Arthur connection while many come to simply enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

After having explored St Michael's Mount (a few days prior to our visit to Tintagel) we were looking forward to exploring Tintagel Castle and while it was very different and less intact than the former, the castle scored major points for its fabulous setting and scenery. We were overwhelmed by the stunning views.

According to English Heritage

Tintagel has been occupied since at least the late Roman period becoming a thriving Dark Age settlement and port. It was Geoffrey of Monmouth who in the 12th century named it as the place where the legendary Arthur was conceived. 

And since then the connection has stayed and may be grown. When you visit the site today, you will be led through years of history, legendary tales and of course the dramatic landscape.

There is a lot of climbing involved and for those who are less able or for small children it may be a bit difficult.

There is a Landrover shuttle service from the main entrance (near the village) to the castle area entrance and it is priced at £2 per person per trip. We chose to walk. From the castle entrance, you climb the steps (around 150) onto the island to explore the clifftop remains (medieval chapel, walled garden, the Great Hall etc.). Once you reach the top, you can take your time to explore the various paths to take in the amazing views. It was magical. We were totally captivated by the tranquility of the place.

Down, the beach looked very beautiful and inviting. The path down to the beach was closed when we visited (for some repair work). But when open, you can head down and walk along the shore and explore Merlin's Cave when the tide is out. Very exciting.

Overall, Tintagel Castle is definitely, a 'must-see' while in Cornwall.

And while you are visiting the castle, do take some time out to explore the Rocky Valley Trail. It is stunning!

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle - English Heritage

Tintagel Castle | Castle Road, Tintagel, Cornwall, PL34 0HE
Phone | 01840 770328

Parking at Tintagel Castle


There is no parking on site at Tintagel Castle. However, there are a number of 'Pay and Display' parking spaces in the village. These are not operated by Engligh Heritage. Please check the prices before you park at any of these private parking spaces. We parked at the Tintagel Visitors Centre (on Bossiney Road, PL34 0AA). Although it was not the nearest car park to the castle, we preferred it for the clarity on the parking charges. At the time of our visit, the charges were £5.20 for 24 hours parking.

Tintagel Castle Admission Prices


English Heritage members go free. An adult ticket is £9.50 while for a child (5-17 years), the ticket is priced at £5.70. For further pricing details and opening times, visit www.english-heritage.org.uk



Tintagel Castle - English Heritage


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3 comments:

  1. I love castles and this one looks very nice even though it is ruins. The waterfall falling onto the beach is beautiful. I wish I could visit.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, it is a lovely place. When we visited access to the beach had been closed for maintenance work but otherwise you are allowed to go down to the beach.

      Delete
  2. When I win the Lotto...and then travel to Britain..........

    ReplyDelete

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