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Tintagel Castle

Bossiney Road Tintagel Cornwall PL34 0HE

english-heritage.org.uk [email protected] tel: 01840 770328

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Forever linked with the legend of King Arthur, for centuries this dramatic castle has fired the imagination of visitors to Cornwall's rugged north coast.

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Be Inspired

Go on a legendary adventure at Tintagel - a Cornish castle with links to the stories of King Arthur. Cross the spectacular new bridge to take in unforgettable views of the coastline and explore the history-rich headland. Walk among the castle ruins that still cling to the cliffs, find early-medieval remains and meet Gallos - the life-size bronze statue of an ancient king who keeps watch over the wild seas below.

Soak up the natural beauty of the headland and look out for wildlife. You can often see seals playing in the water and the rugged cliffs teem with birds sheltering from the winds.

Head down to sea level to stroll along the sandy beach and venture into Merlin's Cave. Uncover tales of King Arthur at the exhibition in the visitor centre, and enjoy a spot of locally-sourced lunch at the Beach Café.

Tintagel Castle has fired the imaginations of writers, royals, artists and poets for hundreds of years. Now it's your turn to be inspired.

visit cornwall tintagel

Cross the bridge

Begin your journey by climbing the step free path up to the mainland courtyard – the medieval gateway to the castle.

Take in the dramatic cliff-top views, before you follow in the footsteps of Tintagel’s medieval inhabitants and cross the footbridge to the island. Explore the remains of the 13th-century castle and imagine the feasting and merriment of Richard, Earl of Cornwall’s court. Discover the ruins of the Great Hall, the heart of the castle, where Earl Richard’s guests were entertained and important business undertaken.

Our outdoor displays guide you through the history of the castle and the role that legends have played in shaping the site. Soak up the natural beauty of this dramatic headland as you imagine life here centuries ago.

Address: Castle Road, Tintagel, Cornwall, PL34 0HE

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Third Eye Traveller

20+ Tips for Visiting Tintagel Castle Cornwall (2024) – King Arthur’s Camelot Castle!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: January 1, 2024

Categories CORNWALL , ENGLAND , MERLIN

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

Tintagel Castle is one of the most famous historical sites in all of Great Britain.

It’s where legends, myth, and magic blend with history on the spectacular Cornish coast.

Tintagel is famous for being the birthplace of the legendary King Arthur of Camelot. A heroic leader of the Knights of the Round Table, and the man who pulled Excalibur from the stone.

Whether you believe the legends are true or not, visiting Tintagel Castle has to be on anyone’s bucket list when travelling to England.

Tintagel Castle Travel tips

Yes, it’s now a ruin, but its breathtaking position on Tintagel island and the fact it has a little magic about it makes it worth every penny. I’ve been visiting since I was a child and every time I discover something new.

However, as one of the busiest tourist attractions in all of Cornwall, there are quite a few practical things you should know before visiting.

Here are my best Tintagel Castle tips that will save you time and money plus some more things to do in Tintagel to make it worth your while!  

Tintagel Castle

What is Tintagel Castle?

Tintagel Castle is a medieval fortification that is located on the peninsula of Tintagel Island off the West coast of Cornwall.  

It had a long history of settlers, even during the Roman era, and was mentioned in the famous Arthurian tales by Geoffrey of Monmouth.

According to him, this was the place of King Arthur’s conception. However, the Tintagel Castle ruins we see today were built by Richard of Cornwall in 1233.

It fell into disrepair centuries ago and became a tourist attraction in the Victorian Era when the site started being excavated.  

Half of the Tintagel Castle ruins are on the mainland and the other half is on the island.

There’s now been a monumental bridge built to connect the two sides for the first time in 500 years.

Did you know? although the site is run by English Heritage , Tintagel Castle is owned by Prince Charles!  

Tintagel Castle England Camelot

Is Tintagel Castle worth a visit?  

100% YES! It’s not a cheap attraction by any means, especially for big groups, but a visit to the castle will be worth every single penny.

Being immersed in endless chapters of history, experiencing the magical legends, and the breathtaking views of the coastline all make this a place to remember.  

There is something here for every type of traveller; history nerds, Arthurian fans, or just those who want to see the stunning scenery!  

Tintagel Castle Cornwall

The legend of King Arthur’s Tintagel Castle

So what is the King Arthur Tintagel Castle connection?  

Well, there are many legendary tales but the one that is most famous was written by Geoffrey of Monmouth in his ‘History of the Kings of Britain’ from 1136.

In the book, he wrote that Tintagel Castle was the place where King Arthur was conceived and the story is quite an unusual one. Way beyond the birds and the bees guys!  

King Arthur was the child of King Uther and Lady Igraine. The famous wizard Merlin was entirely responsible for making that happen.  

King Arthur Statue Tintagel Castle

The legendary tale goes that King Uther was mad with lust for Lady Igraine. But, she was married to Gorlois, The Duke of Cornwall.

King Uther was so obsessed with her, he tried on many occasions to attack Tintagel Castle in order to have her.

Eventually, Merlin wanted to put a stop to the madness and so he enchanted Uther to look like Gorlois. Uther’s men retreated and Gorlois and his men pursued them.  

While Gorlois was away, Uther then was let into the castle and took Lady Igraine. Gorlois dies on the battlefield and the Lady Igraine, who falls pregnant, marries King Uther.   She has a child who eventually becomes King Arthur!  

There is also another tale by Alfred, Lord Tennyson who writes of Tintagel in his ‘Idyll’s of Kings’.  

In the poems, it says that Arthur washed up ashore in Merlin’s Cave beneath Tintagel Island. Merlin then saves the boy and brings him up to the castle to be looked after.  

Related post – Visiting Uther Pendragon’s Castle in the Yorkshire Dales

Merlin's Cave Tintagel

Arthurian discoveries made at Tintagel Castle

So, is there any proof that King Arthur or Merlin lived at Tintagel Castle? Well, there is no evidence to prove or disprove it.

Medieval kings have fought and bargained for this land for centuries just because it’s meant to be where King Arthur could have lived!

There have been numerous excavations made around the area looking to find truth in the tales.

Apparently, from those, it was proved it was indeed a settlement around the sixth century and was the stronghold of an ancient Celtic King.

Tintagel Exhibition King Arthur tablet

In 1998, a piece of slate was recovered with the inscription ‘ARTOGNOV’ which is Latin for the British name Arthnou.

Further investigations have proved it was from the 6th century. Could this be from of Arthur’s legendary seat?  

There are many who say he was real and even those that claim to be from the bloodline of the house of Pendragon. So, who knows?!

Views of Tintagel from the castle

Tintagel Castle History  

Beyond the legends, there are some chapters of the castle’s history that we do know for sure through excavations, historical accounts, and records.  

Through the numerous digs over the years, we know that the Romans settled on his site around the 1st century AD. Then, a little later, a Celtic king and his court used this place as a stronghold in the 6th century.  

It gained monumental fame when Geoffrey of Monmouth wrote his tales in the 12th century about King Arthur. So, many notable people across England wanted to own the land of this legendary King!  

These Arthurian tales inspired Richard of Cornwall, brother of King Henry III, to build a castle on top of the island in the 13th century. Little is known about what the castle was used for if he used it at all!  

Tintagel Island

When the Duchy of Cornwall was created a century later, it was still being managed but eventually, it fell into decay and was abandoned by the 17th century.

Around this time, the name King Arthur’s Castle started being used to describe the fort and the legends have preceded it ever since.  

Around the 19th century, excavations started to take place in the area and the ruin became a popular tourist attraction. Even today, it’s estimated that 250,000 visitors make the journey across to Tintagel Castle every year.  

Tintagel Castle

The Tintagel Castle Bridge  

For centuries, the two sides of Tintagel Castle on the mainland and the shore have been entirely separated.

It used to be quite a tough journey. You’d take a really steep walk down to the coast, then a treacherous walk up the cliff on a set of 150 steps.  

Now, English Heritage has revealed a brand new bridge that has connected the two sides of Tintagel Castle for the first time in over 500 years!

It was a monumental feat of clever engineering that will allow better access for many plus you’ll be able to experience the history too.

Tintagel Castle bridge

But, it was met with a lot of controversies and many said it added more “Disneyfication” the site.

I, personally think this it’s great and allows more people to visit and if anything honours its history. Regardless of the nay-sayers, it’s here and you can choose to use it or not!  

If you’re scared and don’t want to cross the Tintagel Castle Bridge, the old entrance is available for access which is a steep walk down Castle Road. Then you climb up the cliff steps to the top of Tintagel Island.  

Tintagel Castle suspension bridge

Practical tips for visiting Tintagel Castle today

A Tintagel Castle visit is a must for anyone on holiday in Cornwall, but there are quite a few things you should know before you go.

For example, Tintagel isn’t open all year round. Also, when it is open, they have now established timed ticket allocations. So, booking online beforehand is recommended.

Here are my top tips for visiting Tintagel Castle!  

Tintagel Castle Door

1. Tintagel Castle is open seasonally throughout the year  

As Tintagel Castle is so exposed off an island on the coast, it often closes due to adverse weather conditions which we have a lot of in the UK!  

So, it doesn’t open all year round and is closed off through the majority of the winter season. 

During the off-season, Tintagel Castle is only open on weekends and even then it could be closed if the weather isn’t great. So, always make sure you check the website for closures.  

This also means that the facilities around the castle like the cafés, toilets, and shop are closed too. 

From around the month of April, the castle is open every day and all the facilities will be accessible.  

Tintagel Castle opening times: In high season, Tintagel Castle is open most days from 10 am – 5.30 pm (last entry 4.30 pm). But, these can vary throughout the year.  

When is the best time to visit Tintagel Castle? The best time to visit is in the shoulder seasons of Spring or Autumn. This is April, May, June, and September in the UK. The Summer season of July and August is incredibly crowded. It’s also best to avoid weekends and a half terms or to visit later in the afternoon when it’s a lot quieter.  

Tintagel Castle Cornwall

2. Your Tintagel Castle ticket will have time-restricted entry

Since the new bridge has been built at Tintagel Castle, English Heritage has now introduced a timed ticket system to try and combat the number of crowds and protect the site.

But, don’t worry, the time allocation is only to cross the bridge.

Once you’re over at Tintagel Castle, you’re not time restricted and no one will usher you on to leave!  

To avoid disappointment and waiting around all day, it is recommended to book your tickets online and in advance. This way you can book a time that suits you and visit at the time you need to.

You don’t want to get all the way here, turn up at the ticket booth, and be waiting around all day to cross!  

Not only will this save you some time, but also cut down the HUGE queues that used to come with a visit to the castle.  

Click here to book tickets online

Tintagel Castle bridge

3. It’s cheaper to buy Tintagel Castle tickets online

Another incentive to book your tickets online before you go is it’s actually cheaper than paying for tickets at the door.  

You’ll also be able to choose your visiting slot, so you won’t be waiting around all day in Tintagel and can make the most of your time.  

Online Tintagel Castle ticket prices are £14.80 for an adult (£16.30 with a donation) and £9.80 for children (£8.60 with a donation).   Family tickets and concessions are available.

Don’t forget English Heritage Members get to visit completely FREE (parking is paid for though).

Tintagel Castle Cornwall

4. Try to pick a good weather day to visit Tintagel  

Saying the UK doesn’t have the best weather is an understatement and it’s true that we do see rain even in the summer season.  

But, it is always best to try and pick a good weather day to visit Tintagel Castle.

I know that’s now more difficult with the introduction of restricted ticket times, but it really isn’t much fun here in the wind and rain as it’s so exposed.  

Plus, on a sunny clear day, you get the best views of the coastline! It’s breathtaking when the sun lights up the cliffs and ocean.

In stormy weather, high winds, or particularly grim rainy days, English Heritage will shut the complex off to the public for safety.

Tintagel Cove

5. Make sure you dress appropriately for the weather

As Tintagel island is exposed and sits off the coast, it’s rare that you won’t find a strong breeze around here.  

Even on the mildest of weather days, you can still find that you get chilly as the wind can bite! Bring an extra layer, a hat (that won’t blow off), or a waterproof jacket with you.  

Also, a lot of the castle has uneven and rocky territory on the headland. My biggest tip is to   wear some good walking shoes to explore the island.

I went in Birkenstocks which were actually fine in the end but I wouldn’t say flip-flops or heels were safe!

Tintagel Castle Cornwall

6. Choose Tintagel Castle parking wisely  

There is no parking at the site of Tintagel Castle provided by English Heritage.  

However, as it’s such a popular place there are a few Pay & Display car parks dotted around Tintagel. Some are close by, and some are around 600 metres walk away on foot.

The closest is the Tintagel Castle Car Park, Further into the town you have King Arthur’s Car Park and even the Sword in the Stone Car Park too!  

The Tintagel visitor centre car park charge hourly rates of 60p from 9 am – 5 pm (they’re free after 5pm – 9am) with some all-day rates available of £5.50. You need to allow at least three hours for your visit.  

In high season and especially in summer, the local area does open up some overflow parking fields and you pay an all-day fee that goes to charity.  

Tintagel Castle Cornwall

7. Bring snacks or a picnic with you to the top!  

When the castle is open, there is a small gift shop and café. They sell hot and cold drinks, snacks and light lunches.

But when the castle is closed so are the facilities. Once you’re over on Tintagel Island there are no cafés or shops to speak of here.

As a visit to the castle does take a couple of hours many people bring drinks with them or a picnic to have something to eat at the top of the castle.  

At the very least, you should bring a bottle of water with you as there’s a lot of walking involved.  

We decided to purchase some Cornish pasties and some cold drinks at the Cornish Bakery at the top of Castle Road before we visited the site.  

Beach Cafe Tintagel

8.   …Also use the loo before you go

That also goes for toilet facilities.

When Tintagel castle is open there are some accessible toilets to be found by the ticket offices. But, once you’re in the queue to cross over the island and when you’re walking around the island, there are no toilets there.  

So, I would make sure that you use the facilities in the village before you explore the castle.  

When the castle is closed, the toilets are closed off too!

So, if you did want to explore the mainland area around the castle in the off-season. Use the public facilities in the village beforehand by the visitor centre.

Tintagel Castle Cornwall

9.   Prepare for LOTS of people & walking!

Tintagel village and Tintagel Castle are some of the busiest sites in all of Cornwall.

So, on weekends, sunny days and summer holidays you can almost guarantee that it will be packed out with people.

If you hate going to crowded places, I would try and go during the week or later in the afternoons when there will be fewer crowds.  

Tintagel Castle also involves a lot of walking. Although they have installed the new footbridge which makes accessing the castle A LOT easier, it still isn’t completely flat.  

Tintagel Castle walk

10.   Leave enough time in your day to visit  

With the old accessway to the castle, going up and down the cliff was a one-way system. On busy days, you could be waiting over an hour for your turn to head up to the castle. Plus, it was EXHAUSTING to climb up and down.

That’s why they have brought in the timed ticket system, so you’re not waiting for hours in the sun (or rain!).

But, having a timed ticket doesn’t fully stop the queues and Tintagel Castle is a BIG site with lots to see and do.

I would personally allow at least 3-4 hours to visit Tintagel. Minimum. This is so you can find a parking spot, have time to access the castle for your ticket time and then explore the castle and island fully too.  

Tintagel Castle Cornwall

11. The new bridge will take you 57 metres above sea level

The new footbridge that connects the mainland of Tintagel to the island was a monumental feat of engineering.  

It cost over £2.5 million and took over a year to build the two, five-ton cantilevers in Devon

It was transported over to Tintagel and the construction onto the cliffs took just two weeks with a special cable crane! The two pieces were then put together to make a 70-metre-long bridge.

As you walk over you can get some of the best views of the coast which haven’t been seen in over 500 years. But, it’s not for the faint-hearted as it takes you 57 metres over the cliffs below!  

Tintagel suspension bridge

12. What you see of Tintagel castle will mainly be ruins

I think it’s always good to know what to expect on your visit and Tintagel Castle can be disappointing if you were expecting a whole castle like Warwick.  

Tintagel castle is mostly a ruin but there will be plenty more ruins than you were expecting! These all paint a really good picture of how the castle and medieval village would have looked years ago.  

English Heritage also does an amazing job of preserving the ruins that are still here and there are notice boards pretty much every step of the way.  

These boards will have information on what part of the castle you’re standing in and sketches of what it would have looked like years ago. These really help to paint a good picture in your mind!  

Tintagel Castle ruins

13. Be careful around the uneven territory on the island  

So, what is walking around Tintagel Island really like?  Well, it’s a rugged clifftop with a wild landscape.

As much as English Heritage has tried to make most of it accessible as possible with flat walking trails, a lot of it is grassy and rocky.

I like the fact that you’re free to walk all over the island and you’re not restricted around the ruins whatsoever.  

You’ll see plenty of people sitting on top of them, kids jumping around and everyone is allowed to go where they please!  

I would just be mindful of the fact that the pathways and trials are uneven and can sometimes be a challenge. Also, the number of people means that there may be some bottlenecks.  

Tintagel Castle walk

14. You cannot miss snapping a photo with the King Arthur statue.. or, er, Gallos…  

A new addition and highlight to Tintagel Castle is the amazing statue on top of the headland.  

It’s an 8-foot-tall Bronze Sculpture of King Arthur holding Excalibur that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean.

The piece was created by sculptor Rubin Eynon and it was flown in by helicopter for its construction.

It’s really cool as it’s almost been made to look ghost-like and hollow due to the fact he’s a legendary king!

But again, like the new bridge, this is controversial and the residents of Tintagel fear that it added a “Disneyfication” to the town.

They don’t advertise it as a statue of King Arthur but simply ‘Gallos’ the Knight of Tintagel.

Personally, I think it’s a great addition and adds a taste of the legend to the site which is a big part of why people visit. It’s also definitely a photo opportunity you cannot miss.

Tintagel Castle King Arthur statue

15. Explore ALL of Tintagel island to see the breathtaking views!

A lot of people just explore the ruins of the castle, think that’s all there is to see, and then go to leave. But, the island is SO much more than just ruins.

There are so many walking trails that take you to secret spots around here like the old prison well and the maze of ancient house ruins that were here in the 6th century. You can even imagine yourself feasting in the Great Hall! 

Another amazing reason to explore more of the island is to take in the magical views of the coastline. 

From the peninsula, you get 360-degree views of the landscape from Cornish towns, coves, and cliff faces. If you look closely at the ocean you may spot seals!

Tintagel Castle Cornwall

16. Don’t miss out on the secret Tintagel Island Garden  

Another spot on the island that people often miss is the remains of the medieval walled garden on Tintagel Island.  

Many say that Richard of Cornwall was so inspired by the Arthurian tales and the love story of Tristan and Iseult he built the garden.

Nowadays, although flowers no longer grow here, there is a trail to be found of carved stones that tells the tragic love story.  

Tintagel Island

17. You can’t leave without entering Merlin’s Cave

Now that the new bridge has been installed it may be easy to forget about visiting the secret beach that sits underneath Tintagel Island.

It’s also completely FREE to visit. During high tide, you cannot see it, but as the tide goes out a beach is revealed with a large cave!  

This cave is called Merlin’s Cave and the legends say that this is where the Wizard Merlin lived all those years ago. It’s been so well connected with the tales that there is now a ‘sleeping Merlin’ face carved into the rocks. 

Always check the Tide Times before you visit so you’re not disappointed! Also, prepare for the fact that Castle Road towards the beach  is really steep.

Click here for detailed directions on how to visit this cave

Merlin's Cave Tintagel

18. If you don’t have a car you can take a bus or Tintagel Castle tour!  

If you don’t have a car to take you around Cornwall, it is possible to take a bus to Tintagel.  

The nearest train station to Tintagel is Bodmin Parkway around 15 miles away. From here, you can connect with a bus to Camelford and then switch over to a service heading to Bude that stops at Tintagel. Or, you can take a bus from Boscastle at the same service.  

However it’s often infrequent, so it’s recommended to have a car.

If you were eager to take a tour to Tintagel there are group tours that run from Plymouth, parts of Cornwall, Devon, Glastonbury, and even London! Most of these are private tours with individual rates like on Tor’s Tours.  

Tintagel Castle bridge

19. Don’t forget to visit Tintagel Gift shop

Is it even an attraction if you don’t exit at the gift shop? Once you’ve climbed down the stairs toward Tintagel Beach you can visit the English Heritage Tintagel gift shop.

They had lots of amazing souvenirs like tapestries, knights, princesses, and King Arthur memorabilia. As well as goblets, postcards and keyrings.

English Heritage also has its very own mead and wine collections which are worth a taster. You can purchase bottles to take home.

Tintagel Castle gift shop

20. There is a FREE Tintagel exhibition at Tintagel Beach

As I’m completely obsessed with the Arthurian Tales, I was delighted to find that Tintagel Castle have a FREE exhibition about the legend next to the gift shop.

This will give you some context about the history of Tintagel Castle and the story of King Arthur!

Here, you can learn about how Arthur was born here and the legendary wizard Merlin lived beneath the castle in the cave.

Tintagel Castle really is where history meets legend and you can decide for yourself if this is the location of Camelot!

Tintagel Exhibition

Can you see Tintagel Castle without paying?

If you’re on a tight budget, it is possible to see the ruins of Tintagel Castle without paying from the mainland.

The land around the castle is free to walk on and so you can easily catch some great views from down at Merlin’s Cave (which is FREE).  

Also, the walk around the National Trust Glebe Cliffs and over the headland by the Camelot Castle Hotel both provide good views.  

What you’re paying for is to get up close to the ruins, experience the history and explore the island with its amazing views and attractions.  

Tintagel Beach

Frequently Asked Questions about Tintagel Castle

  • What does Tintagel mean? In Cornish, Tintagel means  ‘village on a mountain’ ( Tre war Venydh).
  • How do you pronounce Tintagel? It’s pronounced ‘Tin-TA-jul’.  
  • Who built Tintagel Castle? Richard of Cornwall built Tintagel in 1233. He was brother to King Henry III and became the 1st Earl of Cornwall.
  • What happened to Tintagel Castle? It gradually decayed over time with natural erosion due to disuse.

Tintagel Castle Cornwall

  • Did King Arthur live in Tintagel Castle? According to legends, he was conceived here but the tales do not mention if King Arthur was born in Tintagel Castle or lived here. Although many alternative tales say he did grow up here and was tutored by Merlin inside its walls.
  • Is Tintagel Castle Camelot? No one knows where King Arthur’s legendary Camelot is in Britain! So it cannot be proved or disproved that Camelot sat at the site of Tintagel centuries ago. The castle we see nowadays was built in the 13th century so that couldn’t be Camelot.
  • Who owns Tintagel Castle? Prince Charles, although it is maintained by English Heritage.
  • Is Tintagel dog friendly? Yes, I saw lots of doggies love their visit. But, you must keep them on a lead.

Tintagel Castle Cornwall

Other amazing things to do in Tintagel Village  

Most of Tintagel village is now largely over commercialised due to the King Arthur connection with endless gift shops, cafés, restaurants, and pubs.  

But, there are some amazing sites and tourist attractions to visit while you’re here.

Tintagel Castle suspension bridge

King Arthur’s Great Halls

If you were a fan of the legend and wanted to do something related to King Arthur while you’re here. Why not check out his Great Hall and round table?  

Although it’s mostly used as a wedding venue, the attraction was built in the 1930s to bring some of the legends of King Arthur to Tintagel.  

Around the hall, you’ll find 72 amazing stained glass windows that tell stories of the legend with characters from the tales.

You can also watch a small show and shop for all sorts of King Arthur gifts in their shop.

It’s had millions of visitors since it’s been built and has featured in many films and TV shows too.  

Click here to find out more information about visiting the Great Hall

The Old Tintagel Post Office  

The Tintagel Post Office is a unique museum set inside a quirky slate medieval property.  

It has been here in Tintagel for over 600 years but has had many roles to play in the village.

In 1380 it started off as a farmhouse and was renovated many times by the various families who have called it home.  

In the 19th century, it then acted as a post office for the town. Many say that it’s haunted.  

The museum which is owned by the National Trust has 5 rooms to explore including old bedrooms and a pretty garden out the back.  

Click here for more information on visiting the Tintagel Post Office

The Old Post Office Tintagel

How to get to Tintagel in Cornwall

The small coastal village of Tintagel is located in the North of Cornwall along the West coast. Between Camelford and Bude.

Boscastle is also 3 miles away. It’s easiest if you have a car to access Tintagel as there is no train station and bus services can be infrequent.

Beach Cafe Tintagel

Where to stay in Tintagel

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Cornwall, there are plenty of options for all budgets.  

It’s also nice to use this area as a base to explore the rest of what North Cornwall has to offer;

  • Camelot Castle Hotel – This amazing historic 4* hotel looks over Tintagel castle and its cliffs. So, you can see it from the comfort of your own room! It’s also a great place to have afternoon tea. Click here to book.  
  • The Olde Malthouse Inn – this cosy inn with a terrace is located above a popular restaurant and bar. Plus, you’ll get free private parking. Click here for more info.  
  • YHA Tintagel – There is a cheap hostel for backpackers in Tintagel, which has dorms and private guest room options. Click here for rates.  

Tintagel Castle Cornwall

Magical places to visit after Tintagel to live the legend!

If you are exploring North Cornwall, there are plenty of amazing places that you can visit around the area.  

These make the perfect locations if you’re following in the footsteps of King Arthur or chasing the Arthurian tales. Make sure you visit these spots to live the legend.  

Tintagel King Arthur Statue

Rocky Valley Labyrinth & St Nectan’s Glen

Close by the area of Tintagel are some magical sites worth seeing. The first is the Rocky Valley Labyrinth stone carvings.  

The labyrinth symbol that is carved on the rocks has often been associated with fertility and is used in pagan rituals. You can find the famous carvings behind a derelict mill on the east banks of the river Trevillett.

Nearby is the magical St Nectan’s Glen which is inside the Trethevy woodlands of Tintagel.

This also has a connection to the Arthurian tales. Here you can visit a series of magical waterfalls and small hermitages and see the site many people revere as Holy.

Read my guide on how to visit St Nectan’s Glen & Kieve

Rocky Valley Labyrinth Carvings

Boscastle is a magical harbour town just three miles away from Tintagel and is well worth exploring. There are plenty of art galleries, cafés, and gift shops to explore, plus you can access many walks along the coast here.  

Thomas Hardy fans will also love Boscastle for the fact that this was the spot he met his wife Emma. He also used the location for his ‘A Pair of Blue Eyes ‘ .

The highlight to any visit is the mystical Witchcraft Museum which has been here since the 1960s. You can read my complete post here with all the reasons to visit!

The Pixie house was one of my favourite shops as a child that is set in a quirky 300-year-old cottage. It’s now been transformed into Harbour Light Tea Garden .

A stroll along Boscastle Harbour to the headland is a must and from here you can see the Devil’s Bellows which is a blowhole on the cliff!  

Click here for my complete Boscastle travel guide

Things to do in Boscastle Cornwall England

Bodmin Moor  

Bodmin Moor is a seriously underrated place to visit and is full of ancient sites, waterfalls and walks.

Dozmary Pool on Bodmin Moor is also another legendary site of the Arthurian Tales.   Here, the Lady of the Lake is said to have gifted Merlin the sword Excalibur.

This was a be a gift for prince Arthur to be the next King of England!

You can also visit many ancient sites like The Hurlers Stone Circles or, you can find the Cheesewring on Stowes Hill.

Bodmin Moor is also famous for being haunted by many ghosts but none so famous as the Jamaica Inn a notorious Smuggler’s Pub. If you’re feeling brave, you can visit or check in for the night.

Related articles:

Amazing places to see on Bodmin Moor

How to visit the Hurlers Stone Circles

What is the Cheesewring?

Why you need to visit Golitha Falls

The legend and mysteries of Trethevy Quoit

What it’s like staying at a haunted smuggler’s inn!

Bodmin Moor

St Michaels Mount

No place in Cornwall has as many myths and stories associated with it as St Michael’s Mount.  

From Jack the Giant Killer, magic rocks, the call of mermaids, and legendary curses. There is so much to uncover on this amazing tidal island here.  

St Michaels’ Mount can be accessed from Marazion on the east coast of Cornwall.  

You can walk over on foot at low tide or you can take one of the many boats that cross the sea to the mount when the water levels are too high.  

St Michael's Mount

Although a little far from Tintagel, the area of Land’s End near Sennen has long been a magical area. There are all sorts of springs, wells, stone circles, and dolmen chambers to check out.  

The area around Land’s End and the Isle of Scilly is thought to be the legendary location of the Lost Lands of Lyonesse.  

This is a mythical place that was mentioned many times in the Arthurian tales and is now thought to be under the sea. Check out my post on the area here.

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Save these Tintagel Castle Tips for later!

How to visit King Arthur's Camelot Castle Tintagel Castle Cornwall

Thursday 6th of July 2023

Hi, I've been making my way through a lot of your posts and they have really helped me build a great itinerary for Cornwall, so just wanted to let you know that your content is really so very appreciated! The history, detailed visiting instructions, and lovely photos are such a great resource. Many thanks from the U.S.!

Sophie Pearce

Wednesday 30th of August 2023

Hi Mary, thanks so much for reading and your kind words. I hope you enjoy Cornwall it's a magical part of the world. Tintagel is one of my favourite places on earth :) Happy to answer any questions you have. Sophie x

Philippa Starns

Thursday 9th of July 2020

Thanks for your interesting guide!

Friday 10th of July 2020

Hi Philippa, ah I'm so happy you like the post! Thanks for reading, Sophie x

Tintagel Castle: The Complete Guide

visit cornwall tintagel

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Tintagel Castle

The remains of Tintagel Castle perch on the cliffs of North Cornwall and cling to the rocks above crashing seas . It's easy to see why this early Medieval castle, parts of which are more than 1,000 years old, and the even older remains around it have become the stuff of legends. Was King Arthur born here? Did Tristan steal Iseult from under the nose of King Mark here? The setting is so dramatic, it's no wonder that the stories swirling around it are operatic. But what's really known about Tintagel Castle and how can you visit it?

What to See at Tintagel

The main features and structures of Tintagel are spread over the mainland and the island (really a peninsula attached to the mainland by a narrow neck of land). They include:

  • The Walled Garden; actually, just the remains of the walls — you'll have to imagine the garden: This may have been built by Earl Richard in the mid-13th century, as an homage to the romantic story of Tristan and Iseult.
  • The Dark Age settlement: The setting of the fragmentary ruins of what was the most important settlement in Dark Age Britain are more impressive than the ruins themselves. If you are brave enough to climb up to see them — over hundreds of steps — the views are amazing.
  • The Island Courtyard: The remains of the main part of Earl Richard's castle include the great hall, the kitchens, and the lodgings. You will have to put your imagination on overdrive to see what may have been located in these stony ruins.
  • The Upper Mainland Courtyard: This is where the lodgings and the garderobes (Medieval toilets) of the Medieval castle were located.
  • The Gatehouse Courtyard: The main entrance to the castle on the mainland, where the porter's lodge and the stables were located.
  • Merlin's Cave: Twice a day, at low tide, you can climb down to the beach and scramble over low rocks to a large, deep-sea cavern.
  • The Visitor's Center: The center at the bottom of the site includes an exhibition about the development of the site, the various periods in which it was occupied and the important historical and mythical figures associated with it. The exhibition also continues on a series of outdoor panels, located across the site, that explain what you are seeing while you are there.

Heights and Access

Exploring this site is safe if you stick to the paths and staircases protected by handrails. But it can be challenging if you are worried about heights and precipitous hills that end in cliffs. You also need to be reasonably fit to fully enjoy the site because there are a lot of steep steps. From the mainland castle, there are 148 steps to the island and the wooden door that leads into Earl Richard's Great Hall. The Dark Age settlement begins beyond the Great Hall. The site is considered family friendly, but it is also spread across rocky, uneven terrain and parents need to be attentive to the hazards.

There is a Range Rover service that can take ambulatory disabled visitors from parking in the nearby village to the visitor's center. Unfortunately, the geography of this site makes visits beyond the visitor center impractical, if not impossible, for visitors with accessibility issues.

How to Visit

  • Where:  Tintagel Head, where the mainland castle and island are located, is on the north coast of Cornwall between Boscastle (4.5 miles northeast) and Port Isaac (9.5 miles southwest). It is about a third of a mile, on foot or cycle from the village of Tintagel, over an uneven track. This is a vehicle-free track, except for the Land Rover service mentioned above.
  • When:  Tintagel is open from March 30 until September 30, 2018, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. It will close from October 1, 2018, until Spring 2019 while a new footbridge between the mainland and the island is constructed. Check the website in late spring 2019 for the new opening hours.
  • Cost:  Adult admission is £9.50 with child, senior and family tickets (two adults and up to three children 5 to 17 years) are available. Tintagel is included on the English Heritage Overseas Visitor Pass.
  • For More Information Visit the English Heritage official website

Tintagel Tours

Cornwall Tour offers a variety of day tours to various Cornwall landmarks in luxury 7- or 8-seater vans. Their Tour Four includes Tintagel and the North Cornish Coast with prices starting at £245 per person. Transfers from London Heathrow , Gatwick and Luton airports can be arranged as well as from, Birmingham , Manchester ,  Bristol , Exeter, or Newquay. Pick-ups can also be arranged from the cruise terminals at Southampton, Falmouth, and Fowey.

For centuries, students of the Arthurian stories have pointed to Tintagel first as the place that King Arthur was conceived when his father, Uther Pendragon, the King of Britain, seduced Queen Igraine, wife of the Duke of Cornwall. He did it with the help of magic, appearing to the Queen as her husband, so the story goes. Later embellishments to the story put Tintagel as the place of Arthur's birth as well. 

The separate, later story of the cuckolding of King Mark (a historic, 6th-century Cornish king), who lost his betrothed wife Iseult to his nephew Tristan (once again a magic potion being the excuse) became wrapped up in the Arthurian literature too.

The romantic location of Tintagel, a rock-bound peninsula connected to mainland Cornwall by the slenderest of land bridges, studded — even as early as the 12th century — with mysterious ruins of earlier occupation, makes it a location for local legends right out of central casting.

Too bad it's mostly nonsense.

The Earl of Cornwall Was a Fan of the Book

You've no doubt heard of the fanatic book and movie lovers flocking to the locales of their favorite stories. The lovelorn head for Verona to seek romantic advice from the "experts" installed in "Juliet's house". And these days people name their children after favorite characters in  Game of Thrones  or build themselves a new age home to resemble a  Hobbit  dwelling.

It’s not a new phenomenon. In the early 13th century, King Henry III made his brother, Richard, Earl of Cornwall. Not long after, Richard bought the 'island' of Tintagel and built himself a castle there. About 100 years earlier, the chronicler Geoffrey of Monmouth wrote  History of the Kings of Britain  in which he put Tintagel on the map, so to speak, by weaving it into the origins of Arthur, powerful King of Britain, Ireland, and parts of Europe. He may have been drawing upon oral traditions of the peninsula as the stronghold of earlier rulers of Cornwall. It was the first written mention of Tintagel and the text became the 12th century equivalent of an international bestseller.

Arthur became a popular figure among the cultured and well-read of the period. Richard must have been attracted by Tintagel's literary fame because he traded several other manors for this small and virtually useless piece of land. He hardly used the castle and rarely visited Cornwall. It's possible that Richard wanted to strengthen his legitimacy as ruler of Cornwall and acquired Tintagel, according to English Heritage which manages the site, "to recreate the scene from Geoffrey of Monmouth’s story and, in so doing, write himself into the mythology of King Arthur. "

So What Really Happened There?

There's no question that in the Dark Ages, Tintagel was a very important place. Archaeologists have found evidence of one of the biggest settlements in Britain with a village of more than 100 houses, a chapel, and other structures. They've also found more high-quality continental tableware, Mediterranean crockery and glassware than anywhere else in Britain for the period immediately after the Romans left, between AD450 and AD650.

The site, connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land was strongly defensible - a contemporary writer suggested three soldiers could hold off an army. And the views over the Bristol Channel, all the way to the south coast of Wales, meant it made easy to protect important trade. Even before Roman times, Cornwall's riches lay in its tin mines. They provided this key ingredient for making bronze all over the ancient known world.

Tintagel was probably a royal stronghold for the rulers of  Dumnonia , as the kingdom of the Britons, covering Cornwall, Devon, and parts of Somerset was known.

What Else to See Nearby

  • Bodmin Moor : Cornwall's highest and least populated moorland, home of the legendary (and probably non-existent) "Beast of Bodmin" and the location of Jamaica Inn, the inspiration for Daphne DuMaurier's book of the same name, can be entered about 10 miles from Tintagel. It is 280 square miles of granite moorland with Cornwall's two highest peaks, scattered with Bronze Age hut circles and Neolithic monuments.
  • Boscastle is a pretty stone-built fishing village with a natural harbor and an Elizabethan quay between steep cliffs. Much of the land around it is owned or managed by the National Trust. For most of history, it was the only way to approach this inaccessible, rocky coast. The area is marked by scenic coastal, clifftop and woodland walks.
  • Port Isaac: This picturesque village is where to find Restaurant Nathan Outlaw and Outlaw's Fish Kitchen. Celebrity chef Nathan Outlaw is one we recommend as worth leaving London for.
  • Beaches: Once the cliffs and rocky shores give way, west of Tintagel, sandy beaches are within an easy drive. Surfers and watersports enthusiasts are especially well served. Try Polzeath Beach for a relaxing day out. It's good for surfing beginners. Surfers flock to Newquay, which has 15 listed beaches and a reputation for lively nightlife.

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Stroll along the ruins of Tintagel Castle

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Tintagel Castle is full of legend and mystery, and these evocative ruins have got to be one of England’s most mysterious and romantic spots.

Perched precariously on the cliffs of the North Cornwall coast, the site is said to be the birthplace of the legendary King Arthur, and even if you’re one of those die-hard ‘yeah, right’ sceptical types, we challenge you not to believe – just for a second – that the rumours are all true.Of course the crumbling walls and steep stone steps that you can explore today don’t belong directly to the Arthurian legend. These are the 13th-century remains of Richard, Earl of Cornwall’s castle; even so, the echoes of a more distant past are present in every chiselled stone.

If you’re really fascinated by the story of King Arthur, Guinevere and Lancelot, a trip to Merlin’s Cave is also a must, and nearby there’s a beautiful beach and a handy cafe for refreshments too.

  • Find out more about Tintagel Castle and plan your visit
  • Find more castles and historic properties in Cornwall

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The ruins of Tintagel Castle on the Cornish coast

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How to visit Tintagel Castle: what to see and where to park!

A place of Arthurian legend, Tintagel Castle is one of the must-visit destinations in Cornwall.

It’s seeping with Medieval history, being the place of inauguration of kings, but it is also steeped in legend, as it is allegedly King Arthur’s birthplace. This blog post will show you how to visit Tintagel Castle – and whether I think it’s worth seeing! 

Table of Contents

About the Castle

View of Tintagel coastline and Camelot hotel

One of the most historical Medieval Castles in not just Cornwall, but the whole of Britain, Tintagel is a fascinating place to visit on your trip to Cornwall . 

The castle was initially a place of residence for kings of Cornwall. It was made popular again in the Medieval period when Geoffrey of Monmouth wrote that it was the place of legendary King Arthur’s birth.

In fact, it got so famous that Earl Richard of Cornwall built a 13th century castle there! 

If you are interested in historic sites, Tintagel Castle is a fascinating place to visit. let’s take a closer look at the history. 

Tintagel Castle history

Merlin statue at Tintagel

As mentioned, Tintagel is steeped in Arthurian legend – it is alleged to be where King Arthur himself was born! The jagged headland is also one of the country’s best world-famous prehistoric sites. 

During the 5th century to 7th century, Tintagel was a residence of Cornish kings and other regal figures. It was a popular trading post at the time, with people trading Cornish goods for Mediterranean wine and olive oil. Fragments of pottery from Italy and elsewhere in the Mediterranean have been found at Tintagel. 

Not much else is known about the castle residents around the 6th century, but the place sparked the imaginations of writers, particularly 12th-century writer Geoffrey of Monmouth.

He first claimed that the legendary figure King Arthur was conceived and gave the place some connections to Merlin. 

Due to this newfound literary fame, Richard Earl of Cornwall decided to build a new Medieval settlement on the jagged headland in the 1230s, mainly just to have the prestige of owning somewhere where King Arthur was born. He didn’t visit all that much – it could be quite foreboding – but he seemed to enjoy living as the ancient king would have. 

The castle didn’t exist as a Cornish stronghold for long – by the 16th century, it fell into decline. However, during the 19th century, people once again got more interested in the mythical associations of the castle. When tourism was getting more popular, more people decided to visit the castle and it opened as a tourist attraction. 

In the 21st Century, Tintagel is owned by the English Heritage and remains one of the most popular tourist spots to visit in Cornwall. With interesting archaeological and natural features, it sees countless tourists every month. Recently, the Tintagel bridge has opened as a special path to provide people with a dramatic crossing from the adjacent mainland. 

Where is Tintagel Castle? 

view of coast from Tintagel

Tintagel Castle is technically located on its own island – Tintagel Island! However, this is just a short walk from Tintagel village, located on the North Coast of Cornwall, and it is connected to the mainland. It’s a popular spot on a Cornwall road trip .

Tintagel Castle is a 35 minute drive from Bude , 25 minutes from Port Isaac , 15 minutes from Boscastle, 50 minutes from Padstow, an hour from Newquay and one hour 15 minutes from Plymouth. 

Its address is Castle Road, Tintagel, Cornwall, PL34 0HE . However, you will need to park in Tintagel village, around a 20 minute walk from Tintagel Island.  

If you don’t have a car, the 95 bus goes to Tintagel Castle from Bude, Boscastle and Wadebridge.

Tintagel Castle parking

Ruins at Tintagel Castle

There is no car park at Tintagel Castle itself, but you can park in the village. There are a few pay and display car parks that you can use, but make sure that you leave enough time to find a space and to park. The English Heritage does not run these, and members still need to pay for parking. 

It takes around 20-30 minutes to walk down to Tintagel Castle from the car park, although if you don’t want to walk to the castle, there is a land rover drop off and collection service.  

Where to buy tickets? 

Tintagel Castle with people walking over bridge

Tintagel tickets are on sale on the English Heritage website . Tickets cost £17.00 for an adult, £15.20 for students and over 65s, and £10.10 for children.

You might be thinking this is quite a lot – and I would agree! You can read how to see some of the castle for free below, and my thoughts on whether Tintagel Castle is worth visiting if you are paying full price.

English Heritage Membership

If you plan to visit any other castles in Cornwall or elsewhere in the country, it is well worth considering an English Heritage membership.

Tintagel Castle is one of the more expensive English Heritage properties, but you’d more than make your money back if you went to Tintagel just four times in one year! 

Can I see the castle for free? 

If you think that tickets for Tintagel Castle are a bit on the pricey side… I agree with you.

You can’t walk around the actual castle for free, but you can take a stroll around the coastal footpath of Tintagel to see the castle from other angles.

This is entirely free to do, and you can also get some epic views of the coastline! 

See some more budget hacks for Tintagel Castle in my YouTube video!

Tintagel Castle opening times

Tintagel Castle is open from 10am to 6pm every day. Tickets must be pre-booked before visiting.

Tintagel Castle accessibility

Tintagel is, unfortunately, not very accessible. Due to the rocky landscape of the island, there are lots of uneven steps to go up and down, sometimes with no handrail. Therefore, I would regrettably not recommend Tintagel Castle to anybody with disabilities that mean that they cannot or have difficulty walking. 

Is Tintagel Castle dog friendly? 

Yes, you are allowed to take dogs around the castle. Dogs need to be kept on a lead at all times and make sure that you take plenty of water for them. 

Is there a Tintagel Castle cafe? 

Yes, there is a  beach cafe  on site that serves cream teas, Cornish seafood, and even Cornish rarebit! There are some veggie and gluten-free options as well. 

There is also a visitor centre and an interesting shop. 

How long do I need for Tintagel Castle? 

I’d say an hour is an average time to see Tintagel Castle. You might spend longer if you want to take in some of the epic coastal views, but you’ll be able to get around all of the ruins and read the plaques in an hour. 

Is it worth visiting Tintagel Castle? 

If you have an interest in historic England throughout the fifth and sixth centuries, as well as the Medieval period, Tintagel is worth a trip. It’s also interesting for anybody trying to piece together Cornish history. 

However, if you are just looking for places to visit in Cornwall , entry is quite expensive at around £17.00 per person. If you do not already have one, I would recommend an English Heritage membership, where you can save quite a lot of money. 

If you are just interested in the natural features of Tintagel, you could also consider just doing a walk around the coast path of the area for free. Make sure that you take a look at my Boscastle to Tintagel walk and Tintagel to Port Isaac walk guides!

View of the sea from Tintagel

Tintagel Castle may not be to everybody’s tastes, but if you’re interested in Medieval history and ancient legends, it’s definitely a must-do while you’re in Cornwall. With my tips, I hope you have a hassle-free and enjoyable visit!

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How To Make The Most of a Visit To Tintagel Castle, Cornwall

Tintagel has been on my bucket list for ten years. Believed to be the birthplace of King Arthur, the legends surrounding Tintagle have made it a popular tourist attraction since the 20th century.  There’s nothing like castle ruins overlooking windswept headlands and waterfalls plunging into turquoise waters, to convince you something magical must have happened on that very spot. 

Located in Northern Cornwall, a maritime peninsula in the Atlantic Zone, Tintagel is very remote, the only way to get there is to drive. I finally visited in May this year and it was as spectacular as I expected it to be–even in the rain with the wind whipping my hair in my face–I didn’t care. I loved Tintagel: the remote location adds to the mystery and romance. 

Coast of Cornwall Tintagel

Tintagel. Yes the water really does look like this.

The landscape is a rugged headland covered in ruins dating back to the 5th century though evidence of habitation during the late Roman period has been found. It was a thriving community and a vital economic center of Britain for centuries but was abandoned until the 1200s. 

The castle ruins are from the 13th century. It was likely built by Richard Earl of Cornwall, a brother of Henry III known for building castles around Britain. It’s a small castle and archaeologists believe it was built more as a statement than as a defensive structure probably inspired by the Legends of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, written by Geoffrey of Monmouth. 

The ruins are scattered across the headlands and include the remains of the castle walls, a grand hall, and terraces, plus a church, gardens, storage areas, and a graveyard that was excavated. There’s also a lifesize bronze sculpture named King Galloss. When I read about the sculpture on the English Heritage website I felt it seemed a bit corny but it isn’t at all. It’s quite an evocative sculpture.

Castle ruins Tintagel

The castle entrance after you cross the bridge.

Tintagel captures the imagination. It’s a wild place and you’re very exposed to the elements. Why did people live there? Who were they? The archaeological evidence suggests that there was an elite community that lived there and shards of imported pottery and glass from the Mediterranean have been uncovered. Tin mining was also big, and brought more wealth to the area. Whatever the reason, Tintagel is very atmospheric and worth a visit.

Aside from the ruins, a cool feature of Tintagel is that you can hike down to a sandy cove and waterfall.  I didn’t do that because the weather was total crap the day I was there, but many people did it anyway. 

Tintagel cove

View through an opening in the castle wall

Connecting the headlands and the mainland, the awesome sky bridge is a great place for views and photo ops. It’s an incredible piece of engineering. Before I saw it IRL, I thought I might experience vertigo, but it wasn’t scary at all. I took loads of photos there.

Now that I’ve visited Tintagel I wish I could go back and do a few things differently. In this article, I will share with you my top tips for visiting Tintagel so that you can make the most of your experience there.

Book a ticket

It’s best to book your ticket in advance. You will need a ticket with a timed entrance to cross the bridge to the headlands. You also get a discount on the English Heritage Trust website .  It is possible to visit without an advance ticket, however you are not guaranteed entrance. Once you’re there you can stay as long as you like.

How long should you plan to visit Tintagel?

As I mentioned above, Tintagel is a gorgeous site for hiking. To see all of the excavations, take photos, hike to the cove, and relax a bit, I recommend you plan to spend the day there. You could also have a picnic or you can purchase food at a cafe on site. No matter how much time you have, just go. The website says that the last visit of the day is two hours before it closes. It also says that the last booking of the day is the least busy time for entry. I’m not sure if that’s true. If I had it to do again I’d go first thing in the morning. 

Tintagel Village

exterior post office

Tintagel Village

Tintagel Village is a hamlet, small and very touristy, with many shops selling crystals and things related to the legends of King Arthur and Merlin. Originally known as Trevena, the population declined when the castle was abandoned. There is one place worth seeing there, the Old Post Office–it dates from 1380. There are a few pubs and cafes too, and we did stop for tea while waiting for our timed entrance.

When is the best time to go?

The weather in Cornwall is unpredictable. Summer is probably the best chance of good weather but there are no guarantees. It will also be more crowded in the summer. But if you wait for good weather you may not ever go. If you’re planning a trip to England then you should go to Tintagel if you have enough time. 

Try to avoid going on a bank holiday, a school holiday, or any other holiday. I made that mistake but I couldn’t help it, it was when I was there. I don’t regret it but I would love to go back when there are fewer people there. Still, there are places to get away from people and find some space on your own. I’d probably try to go back in late summer after the kids are back in school. 

Penny Sadler At Tintagel, Cornwall

All bundled up at Tintagel.

What should you wear?

The most important piece of gear you will need for a good experience at Tintagel are comfortable shoes, preferably a hiking shoe or boots. I wore a New Balance trainer with a good cushioned sole and grip. The weather is variable and if it rains the rocks can be slippery. Take a small bag or backpack for any extras like a water bottle, camera lenses, lunch if you’re bringing that, and possibly an extra jacket or sweater. Don’t bother with an umbrella because it’s so windy there it’s pretty much useless. I wore two layers which included a merino wool sweater and a windbreaker with a hood, plus a knit hat that covered my ears. It was chilly, windy, and it rained while I was there, but I was comfortable. Comfort is key. Hopefully, it will be sunny when you visit. 

Getting there

You can only arrive at Tintagel by car or by a tour bus. I recommend that you hire a driver or take a tour unless you have experience driving on the left hand side of the road. As an American that skill is not in my wheelhouse. A friend who lives in the area took me there. Also worth mentioning, the roads are very narrow and again, if you don’t have experience driving on narrow country roads, hire a driver. If you are going to drive, continue to read the section about parking. 

Parking is tricky, especially later in the day.  Arrive at least thirty minutes before your entry time. There are several car parks in the village. Pay to get a ticket which you display on the dash of your car. Of course, you can go with a tour group too. I saw a lot of tour buses. 

Tintagel is romantic, otherworldly, and yes, a bit touristy. It’s also one of the most important historical sites in Britain and ranks among the most popular. Was King Arthur born at Tintagel? Go and decide for yourself. 

Have you been to Tintagel? Let me know about your experience in the comments. 

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Things to do in Tintagel – 12 Epic Attractions

  • October 9, 2023
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Looking for the best things to do in Tintagel, Cornwall? You’ve come to the right place! In this guide, I share all the must-see Tintagel attractions alongside all of my top tips for visiting.

If you’re looking for unique locations to visit in Cornwall, Tintagel should be at the top of your list.

Before our road trip around Cornwall, we hadn’t even heard of Tintagel. However, it ended up being one of the highlights of our trip.

An unassuming village steeped in history & legend, we fell in love with its mysterious nature and cinematic landscapes.

Many visitors come on a day trip to see the famous Tintagel Castle, unaware of all the other Tintagel attractions worth sticking around.

So let’s jump into it and look at all the best things to do in Tintagel.

Tintagel Cornwall

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Things to do in Tintagel - 12 Epic Attractions

You can jump on ahead if you’re looking to get to the best things to do in Tintagel. But otherwise, here are some valuable tips ahead of visiting.

Getting to Tintagel

You’ll find Tintagel on the Northern Coast of Cornwall.  

It’s around a 40-minute drive from Padstow, 50-minutes from Newquay, and 35-minutes from Bodmin.

If you’re driving around Cornwall, keep in mind that many of the roads are narrow country lanes. 

This likely won’t cause too much trouble if you’re coming by car. Although, in a campervan or a larger vehicle, you might find some areas tricky to navigate.

We had a few hairy moments when driving our campervan in Cornwall. But so long as you take it easy on the roads, you’ll be just fine.

If you want to avoid the roads, coaches run from most major cities around the UK, and there are trains from Paddington to several stations in Cornwall.

Places to See Tintagel

Best Time to Visit Tintagel

To fully enjoy all that Tintagel has to offer, you’ll want to visit when it’s warm and dry.

Any time between late May to mid-September offers a fair chance of good weather. 

But, this is the UK, so we must always prepare for wet and rainy days.

July & August tend to be the hottest and driest months in Cornwall. But since this is also when the kids are off school, most places get busier and more expensive.

We visited Tintagel in September, just after the school holidays. It was relatively busy but not unbearably so, and the weather was perfect!

Getting Around Tintagel

Tintagel itself is relatively compact, so you can easily get to most of the attractions on this list on foot. 

Having said that, the rugged coastal landscapes might be a challenge for less abled visitors. There are lots of steeps hills and uneven surfaces.

To get to some of the other things to do near Tintagel, you’ll need to use your car or public transport.

 The 595 bus takes you to Wadebridge or Bude, where you can make connections to other popular locations in Cornwall.

Tintagel-Parking

Parking in Tintagel

There are various pay and display car parks in Tintagel village, and pricing is very reasonable.

Most also allow overnight parking, which is great if you have a motorhome or campervan.

On the higher end of the scale, you’re looking at around £4-5 for the day or £8-10 for an overnight stay.

However, we found a gem of a spot on the far end of Atlantic Road that was just £3 for the day and £5 overnight. (Cash only in an honesty box)

Where to Stay in Tintagel

If you’re camping in Tintagel , I highly recommend the parking spot I mentioned above.

Not only is it super cheap, but it’s close to all the top things to do in Tintagel and boasts stunning coastal views.

While there are no facilities in the car park, it’s just a 5-minute walk to town and public toilets.

Otherwise, you can use the map below to find and compare local accommodations in the area.

If you want to check out the local hotels as well, you can do so here.  Or use the Map below to see all your options​:

Things to do in Tintagel

Now for the exciting part! Time to look at all the interesting and fun things to do in and around Tintagel.

Tintagel Castle

1. Tintagel Castle

It makes sense to kick off the list with Tintagel’s most famous attraction –  Tintagel Castle .

Safeguarded by English Heritage, this historical site is one of great fascination. It’s a place where history meets legend and nature meets art.

From the early medieval buildings and dramatic scenery to its literary fame as King Arthur’s birthplace, there’s a lot to get excited about when exploring Tintagel castle.

Wandering the grounds feels like a real adventure, and you can’t help but sense a touch of magic and mystery in the air.

Tintagel Bridge

One of the highlights for us was crossing over the footbridge to the island. With cinematic coastline all around, you get a sense of what it was like all those centuries ago.

My only peeve about visiting the castle is that it’s pretty expensive. At £14.50 for adults and £8.70 for children, it can soon add up for families.

For history buffs who want to get closer to the ruins and the island’s history, the price tag is undoubtedly worth it. 

But, if it’s more the scenery you’re interested in, you can get equally great views along the SW Coastal Path. 

One other thing worth noting is that the castle gets very busy during peak times, so booking in advance is recommended.

Secret Beach & Merlins Cave

2. Secret Beach & Merlins Cave

Beneath the cliffscape of Tintagel Castle lay a secret beach and, more importantly, the entrance to Merlins Cave.

Merlin was a prominent character in the Arthurian Tales. Legend has it that he was the wizard responsible for King Arthurs’s conception.

Not in your typical birds and the bees kinda way, though, more by magic and sorcery means.

You can visit the secret beach and Merlins cave during low tide. At high tide, both can barely be seen.

The best part is, they are completely free to visit! Many think you need a ticket to visit Merlins Cave, but that’s not the case at all.

Just before you cross over the footbridge to the island, there’s a pathway that leads down to the beach. It’s pretty steep and uneven, though, so take extra care.

Barras Nose

3. Barras Nose

For equally fantastic views as those on the island, I recommend the short walk to Barras Nose viewpoint.

This spot can be an excellent alternative for those on a budget since you can see over to the island. Even if it is at a distance.

The walk is perhaps only 10-15 minutes from the castle footbridge; however, expect to want to take plenty of photos on route.

We also discovered that Barras Nose is the perfect spot to watch the sunset.

Coastal Walks

4. Coastal Walk

The spectacular views don’t end there. 

Continue the coastal path for as long as your feet will allow for some of the most dramatic coastlines in all of the UK.

We walked from Tintagel to Rocky Valley. An utterly enchanting route encountering craggy coastline, sandy beaches, hidden coves, and old ruins.

Nonetheless, it’s a rough and rugged path, with steep climbs and uneven terrain. Please take extra care when navigating, and I would recommend avoiding high winds.

Bossiney Cove

5. Bossiney Cove

Along the coastal path on route to Rocky Valley, we came across Bossiney Cove. 

A beautiful secluded beach with dazzling golden sand, it was the perfect spot to stop and take a breather.

The route down to this beach is rather precarious in places. Although there are ropes in place to make descending and ascending easier.

You’ll also want to plan your visit for when it’s low tide, as the beach gets submerged in water at high tide. 

Rocky Valley

6. Rocky Valley

We concluded our coastal walk at Rocky Valley, where a river meanders its way out to sea.

Follow the river along into the valley, and you’ll end up in a beautiful wooded glen. 

Here is a truly beautiful place to explore, with rock pools, mini waterfalls, various trails, and even some old ruins and carvings.

If you don’t want to walk the coastal path, nearby parking is opposite  Trevillet Mill Holiday Cottages . 

church Tintagel Cornwall

7. St. Materiana's Church

In the opposite direction along the coastal path from Tintagel is St. Materiana’s Church.

Perched high atop Glebe Cliff, the church sits in a scenic location with a picturesque graveyard and interesting history.

The church dates back to the 11th century, and several noteworthy memorials tell the story of its past.

If you find yourself with time to spare, you won’t regret visiting this calm and beautiful spot. 

8. King Arthurs's Halls

If you’re keen to learn more about the legend of King Arthur, you can’t miss a tour of King Arthur’s Halls.

On the outside, the halls don’t look like much. You might be tempted to give it a miss –  But don’t!  

It’s a truly magnificent place to walk around, from the theatrical decor and stained glass windows to the great hall and its huge granite throne.

Not only that, there’s a wonderful opening light show that tells the Arthurian legend in a thoroughly enjoyable and creative way.

I highly recommend this place as one of the best things to do in Tintagel – especially with little ones! 

Old Post Office

9. The Old Post Office

Continuing with the whimsical feel of the town, we have The Old Post Office.

A charming topsy-turvy building from the 14th century, the wonky structure appears to belong in a fairy tale. 

It’s made even more impressive by the landscaped gardens, and it really stands out as you walk through the village.

Unfortunately, we were too late to book a tour of the inside; however, I’m sure it would be worth doing if the exterior is anything to go by.

Tintagel Village

10. Tintagel Village

One of our favourite things to do in Tintagel was to simply meander around the village.

Especially in the mornings before the crowds, you really get to appreciate the quaintness and charm of the town.

We adored the quirky little shops selling all kinds of interesting souvenirs. The local bakeries serving delicious baked goods. And, of course, the various traditional pubs that scatter the town.

I know I’ve said it before, but Tintagel feels like something out of a fairy tale. I know I will return time and time again.

St Nectans Glen

11. St Nectan's Glen

Beautiful St Nectan’s Glen should not be missed off your list of things to do in Tintagel.

A stunning woodland trail running alongside a sleepy river, it’s an idyllic spot where you can relax and connect with nature. 

If you’re lucky, you might even spot a fairy or two!

The reward at the end of the glen is a magnificent waterfall that many believe to be sacred. You’ll find colourful ribbons, crystals, and stone piles that visitors leave as offerings.

The glen is located a short 5-minute drive out of town, or you can also get there on foot via scenic public footpaths.

Ask in the village for directions on foot, as the road is dangerous to walk on.

The Cornish Bakery

12. The Cornish Bakery

For such a small village, I was surprised to find so many lovely places to eat in Tintagel.

Since we cook most nights in the van, we didn’t try as many places as I would have liked.

However, we did grab a pastie from the Cornish Bakery, which was absolutely delicious!

With lovely light and fluffy pastry with a generous helping of filling, it was up there as one of the best we’ve had! Perfect for a light lunch or afternoon snack.

Enjoy These Things to do in Tintagel!

That concludes our list of must-see attractions in Tintagel. I hope you’ve found it helpful and that you have a wonderful time exploring.

We love hearing from you! If you have any questions or feel that we’ve missed anything, don’t hesitate to leave us a comment in the comment section.

Stay adventurous and happy travels.

Charlotte & Natalie

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Tintagel Castle: history, legend and how to visit

Step into Arthurian folklore with a visit to Cornwall’s rough and rocky north coast and Tintagel Castle, one of Britain's most iconic ruins

Dave Hamilton

Duncan Haskell

Exposed on a rocky outcrop, with the raging Atlantic Sea below and the wide-open Cornish sky above, the very elements which make Tintagel a special place to visit have reduced it to a crumbling, romantic ruin.

Despite its ruinous state, the castle sees nearly a quarter of a million visitors a year, attracted in part by its associations with King Arthur , the legendary king of the Britons.

Find out more about Tintagel Castle – including things to do at the site, ticket prices and the history of the castle – with our visitor's guide.

Looking for more outdoor inspiration? Check out our guides to the best walks in Cornwall , Roman Britain and great coastal trails .

Castles of Britain

Britain's ancient castles are woven into the rich heritage of our cities and countryside. Explore remote medieval ruins and iconic castles with our guide to the best castles to visit in Britain .

visit cornwall tintagel

Things to do at Tintagel

Tintagel castle.

Tintagel Castle ruins on a sunny day

Once you’ve successfully navigated Tintagel Bridge, you can explore the remains of Tintagel Castle , including the Great Hall, which was once the centre of Richard, Earl of Cornwall’s court in the 13th century.

The site’s history extends even further back, as highlighted by footprints of 5th and 7th-century dwellings. There is also the beach cafe, serving local dishes such as Cornish rarebit.

The nearby village is a bustling hub of gift shops, cafes and pubs and the site itself has two cafes and a gift shop.

Tintagel Bridge

Tintagel Castle and bridge on a sunny day

Today visitors can cross the impressive new 68.5m bridge spanning the gorge over to Tintagel Island to visit the ruin and the caves below, which are said to be the former home of the legendary wizard Merlin.

In 2015, English Heritage launched a competition to design this new crossing. The winning entry is a collaboration between Belgian architect Laurent Ney and William Matthews Associates, the lead designers of London’s Shard. Their design features local Cornish Delabole slate paving, with two separate cantilevers reaching out and almost – but not quite – meeting in the middle. The bridge’s central 4cm gap is a representation of the transition from the mainland to the island, present to past, reality to legend.

Merlin’s Cave

Merlins Cave sits beneath Tintagel Castle in Cornwall

Be sure to visit the beach below Tintagel Castle and explore Merlin’s Cave at low tide. The cave is 100 metres long and runs beneath Tintagel Island.

St Nectan’s Glen

St Nectans Glen waterfall and rock

Those wishing to continue the Arthurian adventure should seek out nearby St Nectan’s Glen and its spectacular waterfalls, Slaughterbridge and Camelford, or just soak up the uniquely mystical atmosphere of Tintagel village centre itself. Tickets to see the waterfall itself are £8 per adult and £4 per child, which may come as a shock for those who last visited before 2012.

Tintagel Castle history

Tintagel Castle walls and door

Geoffrey of Monmouth, a 12th-century cleric, first cited Tintagel as the birthplace of Arthur in his book The History of the Kings of Britain , but historians have yet to confirm the story. Recent archaeological evidence even suggests that the real Arthur may have lived 200km to the north-east in the border town of Shrewsbury.

Centuries before Geoffrey’s time, between the 5th and 7th century AD, Tintagel was a boom town for Cornish tin. Goods from all over the Roman Empire found their way here and to get an idea of the scale of this ancient trading hub, more fragments of amphora, Roman vessels for wine and oil, have been found in and around Tintagel than in all of Britain combined.

Tintagel has long been considered a sacred site in Arthurian lore as the rumoured birthplace of King Arthur, as named by Geoffrey of Monmouth in his 12th-century tome Historia Regum Britanniae. This ancient association is the reason Richard of Cornwall chose the spot for his own castle in 1233. A suitably spectral sculpture of the legendary king greets castle guests.

Tintagel Castle tickets

In an effort to preserve the castle’s archaeology and ecology, English Heritage has introduced timed tickets, which need to be booked in advance.

Tintagel Castle is open daily. Adult entry £16.30.

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Wanderers of the World

Tintagel Village, Cornwall: Legendary Home of King Arthur

Of all the beautiful places we’ve been to in Cornwall , Tintagel Village in North Cornwall is one of our favourites.

Home to legends and an ancient castle, as well as a rather charming village and incredible coastal views, we guarantee you’ll love visiting Tintagel in Cornwall.

Read on to find out more about Tintagel’s link with King Arthur and all the top things to do in Tintagel during your visit.

Tintagel in Cornwall & The Legend of King Arthur

Tintagel and the Legend of King Arthur

King Arthur was first linked to Tintagel in the 12th century.

The historian, Geoffrey Monmouth claimed Tintagel Castle was the place where Arthur was conceived by Uther Pendragon, King of Britain and Queen Igerna, wife of Duke Gorlois of Cornwall.

Later, within the 15th century, Tintagel Castle was also named as Arthur’s place of birth as well as his conception. While the 17th century saw the first mention of ‘King Arthur’s Castle’.

Things To Do In Tintagel, Cornwall

Whether Arthur really was born here (or not) doesn’t take away from the fact that visiting Tintagel village and the castle today should be on every UK bucket list .

Here are some of the top things to do in Tintagel during your visit.

Tintagel Castle

Tintagel Castle atop a cliff

Surrounded by the deep blue ocean and stunning Cornish countryside, Tintagel Castle is perched on the edge of the land – and has such stunning views!

Views from Tintagel Castle

The castle is in ruins today and the English Heritage have done a superb job at ensuring your visit isn’t too commercialised.

Instead, they’ve focused on the castle’s history and have provided plenty of opportunity for you to get up close and personal with the castle and its surrounding landscape.

Tintagel Castle

English Heritage members can visit the castle for free. Or, if you need to buy a ticket, you can do this in advance online .

Psst! If you’re not yet an English Heritage member, you can grab 20% off gift and annual memberships right now. Just click this link and use our exclusive discount code: WOWEHM20 . Enjoy!

When we visited in 2017, we had to climb over a hundred very steep steps up to the castle from the entrance and back down again. We’re both pretty fit people, but we were definitely panting when we reached the top!

That said, we’ve since heard that Tintagel Bridge has been opened, so you should find your visit much easier than ours, which is great for any of you visiting with young children, dogs or the elderly.

At the top, you’ll be treated to incredible sea views and a chance to walk around the castle and surrounding countryside.

You’ll even find a bronze statue of Arthur and his sword on top of the cliffs overlooking the castle.

King Arthur statue at Tintagel Castle

Don’t miss a wander around The Island Garden. This is the remains of the old walled garden and you should see it on your way to Arthur’s statue.

Inside, you’ll find some engraved stepping stones, which tell the tragic love story of Tristan and Iseult .

While you’re up this high, be sure to take in the incredible views across the sea and Cornish countryside.

It certainly helps to blow away the cobwebs and is a lovely photo opportunity – especially on a sunny day.

Justine & Scott in Tintagel, Cornwall

RELATED: 14 BEST ENGLISH HERITAGE SITES FOR YOUR BUCKET LIST

Tintagel Beach & Merlin’s Cave

Below the castle, there is a small beach known as Tintagel Beach or Castle Cove .

Although it’s a pebble and shingle beach, it’s very quiet and is perfect for rock pooling, or just paddling your feet on a hot day.

Tintagel Beach

Discover more fabulous and hidden beaches in Cornwall >>>

From Tintagel Beach, it’s also possible to access and walk all the way through Merlin’s Cave when the tide is out (although make sure you know when the tide will be coming back in again).

Legend says this is where the famous wizard, Merlin used to live during the days of Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table.

Merlin's Cave in Tintagel

Tintagel Village

Aside from the castle and beach, the nearby Tintagel village is a pretty little Cornish village and is just calling out for you to have a wander around.

Decked out in colourful bunting during the summer months and completely bustling with tourists and energy, you’ll definitely want to spend at least a couple of hours exploring the village after the castle.

There are plenty of independent boutiques and shops in Tintagel selling everything from gifts, souvenirs and fudge, to clothes, toys and games.

And towards the end of the village furthest away from the castle, you’ll find an inscribed stone rock welcoming you to Tintagel. It’s worth a quick photo if you have time.

Tintagel village sign

There are also a number of restaurants, pubs and bars within the village for you to rest your feet in.

You’ll find plenty of places in the village serving traditional British food like fish ‘n’ chips, Cornish pasties and typical ‘pub grub’ such as sausage and mash or pie.

Where To Stay In Tintagel, Cornwall

There are plenty of small B&Bs, large hotels and holiday homes that you can stay in within Tintagel, some with a small link to King Arthur by name.

Here are our top picks of where to stay in Tintagel:

  • Tintagel Arms Hotel : Located a short walk away from Tintagel Castle, this simple hotel is a very comfortable stay. Breakfast is served daily, and in the eating area, you’ll be joined by statues of knights in armour and other quirky Arthur-related decor. Check Prices
  • The Cornishman Inn : Just 3 minutes from Tintagel Castle, The Cornishman Inn is a very traditional B&B with pub and food served on-site and a large terrace and garden attached to keep the kids busy. Check Prices
  • Camelot Castle Hotel : For those of you who are after a bit of opulence and luxury during your stay in Tintagel, Camelot Castle Hotel is the one for you. With amazing sea views, period features and set inside what was once probably a castle or at least a rich person’s mansion, this hotel will take your breath away! Check Prices

Want to know where else to stay in Cornwall? Check out this detailed guide! >>>

Views from Tintagel

Travel Tips To Remember When Visiting Tintagel

In case you didn’t have time to read this full blog, here are the top travel tips you need to remember when visiting Tintagel:

  • English Heritage members can visit Tintagel Castle for free.
  • Otherwise, you can buy tickets in advance online .
  • Merlin’s Cave can be accessed when the tide is out via the beach below the castle known as Tintagel Beach or Castle Cove.
  • Eating in Tintagel should involve traditional fish ‘n’ chips, Cornish pasties or typical ‘pub grub’ such as sausage and mash or pie.
  • Make sure you buy some fudge as a souvenir from one of the little shops in Tintagel village.
  • If you’re staying the night in Tintagel, check out Tintagel Arms Hotel , The Cornishman Inn or Camelot Castle Hotel .

Final Thoughts

We hope this guide to Tintagel’s castle and village has been helpful! Are you excited for your trip to Tintagel and a step back in time?

If you want to extend your stay in Cornwall, heading out on a road trip around Cornwall is one of our favourite things to do.

To help, we’ve written a 5 day Cornwall itinerary , which includes a visit to Tintagel and lots of other beautiful places in Cornwall .

Tintagel Village, Cornwall: Legendary Home of King Arthur

Justine Jenkins

Justine is one half of the married couple behind the Wanderers of the World travel blog. She lives in Bristol, UK and has travelled extensively within Europe and beyond since 2013. After her trips, she shares detailed travel itineraries, helpful travel guides and inspiring blog posts about the places she's been to. When she's not travelling overseas, you'll find her joining her husband, Scott on various day trips, weekend getaways and walks within the UK, which she also writes about on Wanderers of the World. Aside from travelling and writing, she also loves reading, crafting and learning about nature.

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We visited Tintagel several years ago and were in awe of how beautiful and mystical the place is. We’re going to visit next year and are looking forward to visiting the castle again with the beautiful sculpture of King Arthur and the new cantilever bridge! Thank you for such an informative and interesting review xx

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  1. Tintagel

    Tintagel Castle. Steeped in magic and mystery, Tintagel's connection with King Arthur has made the area popular with tourists, artists, and writers for centuries. Situated on a dramatic coastline pounded by the Atlantic, there's much more to offer than just legends. King Arthur, Tintagel Island. The South West Coast Path.

  2. Visit Tintagel Castle

    Castle Road, Tintagel, Cornwall, PL34 0HE. BOOK AHEAD AND SAVE 15%. Immerse yourself in history, myth and stunning scenery at Tintagel Castle on Cornwall's rugged north coast. Inextricably linked with the legend of King Arthur, for centuries this dramatic castle and coastline has fired the imaginations of writers, artists, and even the brother ...

  3. Tintagel Castle

    Address. Bossiney RoadTintagelCornwallPL34 0HE. Contact. english-heritage.org.uktintagel.castle@english-heritage.org.uktel: 01840 770328. Tintagel Castle. Forever linked with the legend of King Arthur, for centuries this dramatic castle has fired the imagination of visitors to Cornwall's rugged north coast. Gallos.

  4. Plan Your Visit to Tintagel Castle

    Tintagel Castle is situated on Cornwall's north coast, between Padstow and Bude. Visit our Directions page and plan your journey to Tintagel Castle by car, bicycle or public transport. Our interactive map will help you choose the best route. You will find pay and display car parks in Tintagel Village, 600 metres away from the site.

  5. 18 best things to do in Tintagel, Cornwall (2023 guide)

    Head to King Arthur's Great Halls for an experience all about the life of King Arthur, and then visit the Tintagel Post Office to learn about the Medieval history in the village. Check out the Tintagel Toy Museum, and if you have time, head to St Nectan's Glen to see the beautiful waterfall.

  6. The 10 Best Things to Do in Tintagel

    Tintagel King Arthur Walk - South West Coast Path. A 3.6 mile walk on part of the South West Coast Path around Tintagel, made a romantic destination for Victorian tourists by poets such as Tennyson, whose 'Idyll of the Kings' set the tale of King …. 7. Rocky Valley.

  7. 20+ Tips for Visiting Tintagel Castle Cornwall (2024)

    In stormy weather, high winds, or particularly grim rainy days, English Heritage will shut the complex off to the public for safety. Tintagel Castle. 5. Make sure you dress appropriately for the weather. As Tintagel island is exposed and sits off the coast, it's rare that you won't find a strong breeze around here.

  8. Tintagel Castle: History and Legend

    History and legend are inseparable at Tintagel. From about the 5th to the 7th century AD it was an important stronghold, and probably a residence of rulers of Cornwall. Many fragments of luxury pottery imported from the Mediterranean were left behind by those who lived here. It was probably memories of this seat of Cornish kings that inspired ...

  9. Tintagel Castle: The Complete Guide

    How to Visit . Where: Tintagel Head, where the mainland castle and island are located, is on the north coast of Cornwall between Boscastle (4.5 miles northeast) and Port Isaac (9.5 miles southwest).It is about a third of a mile, on foot or cycle from the village of Tintagel, over an uneven track. This is a vehicle-free track, except for the Land Rover service mentioned above.

  10. Stroll along the ruins of Tintagel Castle

    Tintagel Castle is full of legend and mystery, and these evocative ruins have got to be one of England's most mysterious and romantic spots. Perched precariously on the cliffs of the North Cornwall coast, the site is said to be the birthplace of the legendary King Arthur, and even if you're one of those die-hard 'yeah, right' sceptical ...

  11. How to visit Tintagel Castle: what to see and where to park!

    Tintagel Castle is a 35 minute drive from Bude, 25 minutes from Port Isaac, 15 minutes from Boscastle, 50 minutes from Padstow, an hour from Newquay and one hour 15 minutes from Plymouth. Its address is Castle Road, Tintagel, Cornwall, PL34 0HE. However, you will need to park in Tintagel village, around a 20 minute walk from Tintagel Island.

  12. Tintagel

    Tintagel (/ t ɪ n ˈ t æ dʒ əl /) or Trevena (Cornish: Tre war Venydh, meaning Village on a Mountain) is a civil parish and village situated on the Atlantic coast of Cornwall, England, United Kingdom.The village and nearby Tintagel Castle are associated with the legends surrounding King Arthur and in recent times have become a tourist attraction. It was claimed by Geoffrey of Monmouth that ...

  13. How To Make The Most of a Visit To Tintagel Castle, Cornwall

    Tintagel Village is a hamlet, small and very touristy, with many shops selling crystals and things related to the legends of King Arthur and Merlin. Originally known as Trevena, the population declined when the castle was abandoned. There is one place worth seeing there, the Old Post Office; it dates from 1380.

  14. Tintagel Castle

    4,998 reviews. #9 of 19 things to do in Tintagel. Castles. Open now. 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Write a review. About. Immerse yourself in history, myth and stunning scenery at Tintagel Castle on Cornwall's rugged north coast. Inextricably linked with the legend of King Arthur, for centuries this dramatic castle and coastline has fired the ...

  15. Tintagel Castle Things To See and Do

    Tintagel was a stronghold for early medieval rulers. It may have been memories of this seat of Cornish kings that inspired Geoffrey of Monmouth to name it as the place where King Arthur was conceived. It was almost certainly this link to the literary hero that inspired Richard, Earl of Cornwall, to build his cliff-top castle here.

  16. 15 Best Things To Do in Tintagel, England

    Having briefly studied Arthurian legend it has always been one of my favorite places to visit in Cornwall, but Tintagel is also perched on a wild rocky coastline offering amazing walks, ocean views, and some great pubs.. The village is most famous for Tintagel Castle and Merlin's Cave, but there are many more fun things to do in Tintagel and some excellent pubs and restaurants to try too.

  17. Things to do in Tintagel

    One other thing worth noting is that the castle gets very busy during peak times, so booking in advance is recommended. 2. Secret Beach & Merlins Cave. 2. Secret Beach & Merlins Cave. Beneath the cliffscape of Tintagel Castle lay a secret beach and, more importantly, the entrance to Merlins Cave.

  18. TINTAGEL CASTLE (2024) All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go ...

    Closed now. 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Write a review. About. Immerse yourself in history, myth and stunning scenery at Tintagel Castle on Cornwall's rugged north coast. Inextricably linked with the legend of King Arthur, for centuries this dramatic castle and coastline has fired the imaginations of writers, artists, and even the brother of a king ...

  19. Tintagel Castle

    Tintagel Castle / t ɪ n ˈ t æ dʒ əl / (Cornish: Dintagel) is a medieval fortification located on the peninsula of Tintagel Island adjacent to the village of Tintagel (Trevena), North Cornwall in the United Kingdom. The site was possibly occupied in the Romano-British period, as an array of artefacts dating from this period have been found on the peninsula, but as yet no Roman-era ...

  20. Prices and Opening Times for Tintagel Castle

    BOOK AHEAD AND SAVE 15%. You can book online until 8.45am on the day of your visit. If you're visiting after 2pm, you can book right up to the start of your chosen arrival time. We recommend prebooking your tickets to Tintagel Castle, as during peak times we can be fully booked. You can purchase tickets at the door depending on availability ...

  21. Tintagel, England: All You Must Know Before You Go (2024)

    Cornwall. Tintagel. Tintagel. ... When is the cheapest time to visit Tintagel? If you're a more budget-conscious traveler, then you may want to consider traveling to Tintagel between December and February, when hotel prices are generally the lowest. Peak hotel prices generally start between June and August.

  22. Tintagel Castle: history, legend and how to visit

    Step into Arthurian folklore with a visit to Tintagel Castle on Cornwall's rough and rocky north coast.

  23. Tintagel Village, Cornwall: Legendary Home of King Arthur

    The historian, Geoffrey Monmouth claimed Tintagel Castle was the place where Arthur was conceived by Uther Pendragon, King of Britain and Queen Igerna, wife of Duke Gorlois of Cornwall. Later, within the 15th century, Tintagel Castle was also named as Arthur's place of birth as well as his conception. While the 17th century saw the first ...