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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

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

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? 

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

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 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!

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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A place of legend

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.

The land of Arthur

Tintagel’s association with King Arthur can be traced back to Geoffrey of Monmouth’s book ‘History of the Kings of Britain’, written sometime in the first half of the 12th century. According to the book Tintagel Castle was the home of Uther Pendragon, Arthur’s father. Over the years countless other authors have created their own versions of the story, introducing us to Merlin, Guinevere, and the Knights of the Round Table.

How much truth is there in it, that’s up to you to decide. But we challenge anybody to not come away from Tintagel without feeling some of the magic.

A wild coastline

The rugged Cornish coast, in and around Tintagel, offer stunning views and equally stunning, if tough, walking. The South West Coast Path leads you along the cliffs, passing close to Tintagel's abandoned slate quarries, where men worked precariously on narrow ledges above the boiling sea. Going east brings you to Rocky Valley leading inland to the mystical St Nectan’s Glen, whilst going west a mile or so, you will reach Trebarwith Strand.

Here at low tide there’s a lovely beach to explore, but time it wrong and all you will find is a rocky foreshore and views offshore to Gull Rock.

Tintagel is a real landmark in history, with an immersive aura that will transport you right back to the time of King Arthur. And yet, even without the history, Tintagel stands up as one of the most breathtaking locations in all Cornwall simply as it is.

Accommodation in and around tintagel.

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Tintagel castle.

For a magical day out take the family to Tintagel Castle. Set high on the rugged North Cornwall coast, offering dramatic views.

Plan your trip

Everything you need to know about getting to Tintagel.

From the M5 at Exeter take the A30 until a few mile east of Launceston. Turn off onto the A395 following it to the A39. From here follow signs to Tintagel.

There are multiple pay and display car parks in the village.

The main bus serving Tintagel is the 95 bus, which runs between Bude and Wadebridge via Boscastle and Camelford. (Summer 2022)

The nearest train station to Tintagel is Bodmin Parkway, about 16 miles away. You can journey by bus from there, but it requires changing in Wadebridge.

There is no access to the castle or surroundings by vehicle (apart from a LandRover that operates a service down to the Visitor Centre and cafe in season)

You have to park in the village and walk to the bridge where your entry to the castle starts.. Th walk to the entrance is usually around 20-30 minutes, English Heritage recommend arriving early as the car parks in the village can get very busy in the main season.

Yes, it's all part of the castle experience. An adult ticket is £14.80 (2022) or free to English Heritage members.

Yes, but you probably need to be interested in King Arthur and mythology. There are other things to see, the old post office, the clifftop church and the spectacular coastline, but the shadow of the King is always lurking over your shoulder.

Many believe so, and who would we be to argue? Like any legend, there's sure to be some truth in the story, but it's very difficult to prove anything.

A visit to Tintagel is a great way to discover the myths and legends and make your own mind up.

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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.

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!  

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!  

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!  

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.  

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

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.

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?!

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!  

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.  

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.

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.  

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!  

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.  

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

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).

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.

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!

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.  

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.  

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.

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.  

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.  

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!  

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!  

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.  

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.

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!

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.  

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

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.  

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.

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!

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.  

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.

• 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.

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.

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

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.

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.  

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.  

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

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

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!

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.  

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.

Read more of my Cornwall guides

St Aubyn Estates Cottages review

How to visit Tregothnan Estate in Cornwall

Things to do in Mousehole Cornwall

Things to do in Charlestown Cornwall

How to visit the Lost Gardens of Heligan  

How to visit Nanjizal Beach

A complete guide to Porthgwarra Cove

Why you must visit Minack Theatre

Secrets of the Admiral Benbow Inn

Where is Driftmark filmed in House of the Dragon

How to visit Holywell Bay from House of the Dragon

Magical things to do in Kynance Cove

Save these Tintagel Castle Tips for later!

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

Stroll along the ruins of Tintagel Castle

Tintagel, cornwall.

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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Your Ultimate FAQ Guide to Tintagel Castle: Costs, Access, and Hidden Gems Unveiled

Discover key insights with our FAQ guide on Tintagel Castle. Learn about admission costs, Merlin's Cave access, free sights, amenities, and more for your perfect visit.

Alex Cornici

Hey there! I'm Alex, a dedicated explorer with an insatiable wanderlust. My life's mission is to roam this incredible planet, one destination at a time.

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Hey, no subscribe why not get travel tips and offers in your inbox, on this page, visiting tintagel castle: admissions and fees, exploring merlin's cave, the tintagel bridge: costs and crossing, tintagel castle tour experience, tintagel in popular culture, tintagel's natural beauty: beach and surroundings, amenities at tintagel castle.

Nestled on the rugged coastline of Cornwall, Tintagel Castle is a monument steeped in myth and history. Fabled for its connection to the legend of King Arthur, this medieval fortress offers more than just a glimpse into the past; it's an immersive journey into a landscape where history and legend intertwine.

In this blog, we'll explore the facets of visiting Tintagel Castle, answering the most pressing questions for prospective visitors. From the logistics of visiting without paying to the mystery and allure of Merlin's Cave, and from the architectural marvel of Tintagel Bridge to the practicalities of amenities and parking, we've got you covered.

Whether you're drawn by the Arthurian legends, captivated by the breathtaking natural scenery, or interested in the castle's rich history, Tintagel Castle promises an unforgettable experience.

But like any popular tourist destination, it comes with its set of queries and concerns. How much will the visit cost? Can you explore the famous Merlin's Cave? What are the amenities available on site? This comprehensive guide aims to answer these questions and more, ensuring that your visit to Tintagel Castle is as magical and hassle-free as possible. Let's unravel the mysteries and marvels of this iconic Cornish landmark.

Can You Go to Tintagel Castle Without Paying?

Tintagel Castle, managed by English Heritage, is a protected site with an admission fee that contributes to the maintenance and preservation of this historic monument. However, the surrounding areas, including parts of the coastline and some trails, are accessible without a ticket. While you cannot enter the castle itself without paying the admission fee, you can still enjoy panoramic views of the ruins and the coastline from various vantage points around the site.

Why is Tintagel Castle So Expensive?

The admission fee for Tintagel Castle might seem steep to some visitors, but it's important to consider the value it offers. The ticket price includes access to the castle, the iconic new footbridge that offers stunning views and a safer, more accessible route to the island, and a variety of interactive exhibits and installations that enrich the visitor experience. Furthermore, the fee supports ongoing conservation efforts, ensuring that this historical treasure and its stories endure for future generations.

Can You Just Turn Up at Tintagel Castle?

Tintagel Castle is a popular destination, especially in peak tourist seasons, and it's highly recommended to book your tickets in advance through the English Heritage website. This not only guarantees your entry but also helps in managing visitor numbers to prevent overcrowding and preserve the tranquility of the site. Last-minute visitors may find some tickets available at the entrance, but this is subject to daily visitor limits and cannot be guaranteed, especially during busy periods.

Can You Visit Merlin's Cave for Free?

Yes, Merlin's Cave, situated beneath the castle on Tintagel's rugged coastline, is accessible without any fee. This impressive sea cave, named after the legendary wizard Merlin, can be reached from Tintagel beach during low tide. Visitors are welcome to explore the cave at their own risk, marveling at its natural beauty and pondering the myths associated with it. However, it's crucial to be mindful of the tide times to ensure a safe visit.

Can You Go in Merlin's Cave?

Merlin's Cave is open for exploration, inviting visitors to walk through its length and experience the echoing waves and unique atmosphere inside. The cave provides a mysterious and slightly eerie experience, perfect for those looking to delve into the mythical aspect of Tintagel. But remember, the cave is only safely accessible during low tide. It's recommended to check tide schedules and always prioritize safety during your visit.

Safety and Accessibility Considerations

While visiting Merlin's Cave is a thrilling experience, it's important to take precautions. The cave floor can be slippery and uneven, so sturdy footwear is recommended. Visitors should also be aware of the tide times to avoid being cut off by the rising sea. It's always a good idea to check weather conditions and seek local advice if you're unsure about safety.

How Much Does Tintagel Bridge Cost?

The impressive Tintagel Bridge, a stunning feat of engineering connecting the mainland to the island, is included in the admission fee for Tintagel Castle. There is no separate charge for crossing the bridge. This footbridge not only provides spectacular views but also makes the site more accessible, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the historic and natural beauty of Tintagel.

Can You Cross the Bridge at Tintagel?

Yes, visitors can cross the Tintagel Bridge as part of their visit to the castle. The bridge offers a dramatic approach to the castle ruins, with breathtaking views of the Atlantic and the rugged Cornish coastline. It's designed for pedestrian use, ensuring a safe and memorable crossing. However, it's worth noting that during extreme weather conditions or for maintenance, the bridge may be closed temporarily for visitor safety.

How Long Does It Take to Walk Around Tintagel Castle?

A visit to Tintagel Castle is a journey through history and legend. Typically, visitors spend around 2-3 hours exploring the castle ruins, the bridge, and the surrounding landscapes. The duration can vary based on individual pace, the time spent admiring the views, and any additional activities, such as exploring Merlin's Cave or participating in the interactive exhibits. The site is vast and rich in history, so allowing ample time to soak in the atmosphere and enjoy each aspect is recommended.

What Can You See at Tintagel for Free?

While the castle itself requires an admission fee, the surrounding area of Tintagel offers several free attractions. Visitors can enjoy the stunning coastal views, explore parts of the village, and witness the dramatic seascape from various viewpoints. The path leading to the castle entrance offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities, allowing everyone to capture a piece of Tintagel's magic without entering the paid area.

What Was Filmed at Tintagel Castle?

Tintagel Castle's dramatic setting and its association with Arthurian legends have made it a sought-after location for filmmakers. It has been featured in various films and television series, most notably in the BBC series "Merlin," where it represented the mythical landscapes associated with the legendary wizard. Its picturesque ruins and coastal backdrop provide a perfect setting for stories of magic, chivalry, and romance, captivating audiences worldwide and contributing to the castle's fame and allure.

Does Tintagel Have a Beach?

Yes, Tintagel boasts a small, picturesque beach nestled at the base of the cliff, beneath the castle. Accessible during low tide, Tintagel Beach is a hidden gem where visitors can enjoy the rugged Cornish coastline's natural beauty. The beach area includes Merlin's Cave, adding a touch of myth and intrigue to the scenic beauty. Although not a typical sandy beach for sunbathing, it offers a unique, tranquil spot for contemplation and exploration, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and the sounds of the sea.

Natural Sights and Activities Around Tintagel

The area around Tintagel is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Coastal paths offer stunning walks with panoramic sea views, leading to secluded coves and beaches. The local flora and fauna, along with the unique geology of the cliffs, provide plenty of interest for nature enthusiasts. Nearby, the village of Tintagel offers charming shops, traditional pubs, and cozy cafes, allowing visitors to soak in the local culture and cuisine after a day of exploration.

Can You Eat at Tintagel Castle?

Tintagel Castle provides visitors with a range of dining options. The Beach Café, located near the castle entrance, offers a selection of snacks, light meals, and beverages, perfect for a quick refreshment or a leisurely meal with a view. For those looking for picnic options, there are designated areas where you can enjoy your own food while admiring the scenic surroundings.

Does Tintagel Castle Have Parking?

While Tintagel Castle itself does not have its own parking facility, there are public car parks available in Tintagel village, a short walk from the castle. These car parks offer convenient options for visitors, with charges applicable. It's advisable to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a parking spot, as Tintagel is a popular destination and can get quite busy.

Tintagel Castle, with its rich tapestry of history, legend, and natural beauty, offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you're drawn by the Arthurian myths, captivated by the architectural marvel of the bridge, or simply in awe of the breathtaking coastal views, Tintagel has something for everyone. While the admission fee opens the door to a well-preserved piece of history and ensures the conservation of this precious site, the surrounding area also offers a wealth of free experiences, from the mystique of Merlin's Cave to the tranquil beauty of the Cornish coastline.

For an enriched visit, planning ahead is key. Booking your tickets in advance, checking tide times for cave explorations, and considering the local amenities can make your trip smooth and enjoyable. As you walk the grounds where legends echo and the sea whispers tales of yore, Tintagel Castle not only reveals the layers of history and myth but also connects you to the enduring allure of Cornwall's rugged landscape.

In closing, Tintagel Castle is more than a tourist destination; it's a journey into a past that continues to inspire and captivate the imagination. Whether you're meandering through the medieval ruins, crossing the stunning bridge, or simply soaking in the panoramic views, Tintagel offers a truly magical escape into a world where history, legend, and natural beauty intertwine.

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A Trip to Camelot? Tips on Visiting Tintagel Castle, Cornwall, UK

Are you planning on visiting Tintagel Castle, but unsure if it’s worth the money? Would you like to find out how Tintagel’s strong link to the legends of King Arthur and Camelot was born? Or, are you just browsing for some useful information prior to your visit?

If your answer is yes to any of these questions, I hope this blog post will help you find the answers you’re looking for. We’ll share some useful information that you might want to consider before booking your ticket. We’ll also dive a bit into the rich history and legends that surround Tintagel Castle and inspired many people over the centuries.

If you’d like to see our Tintagel Castle adventures with some amazing drone footage then make sure to watch our YouTube video by  clicking here.  (Please note that this video also contains our St Nectan’s Glen circular walk. ) You can also watch our full Cornwall Series by clicking here.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission if you click a link and purchase something. Clicking these links won’t cost you anything, but it will help us to keep this site up and running! Learn more about our affiliate policy.

Table of Contents

Interesting Facts about Cornwall

Although Cornwall is located pretty far away from the major centres in the UK, millions of tourists visit it every year. So, I thought I’d share 10 interesting facts about Cornwall and show you why we totally fell in love with it in only 3 days.

• Cornwall has only one neighboring county, Devon, and is surrounded by water on three sides.
• It has only one city, Truro, which is the administrative centre of Cornwall and also one of the smallest cities in the UK.
• Cornwall has its own flag and own language called Kernewek, which is a Celtic language. The Cornish flag is the flag of the Cornish patron saint, Saint Piran.
• It’s southwesternmost point is called Land’s End and the southernmost point is Lizard Point. Lizard Point is also the most southerly point on mainland Great Britain.
• The well-known Cornish Pasty was invented by the miners. Apparently, at least 120 million pasties are made every year and producers generate millions of pounds worth of trade to the Cornish economy.
• Due to its oceanic setting and the influence of the Gulf Stream, Cornwall has probably the best climate in the UK.
• Cornwall has a huge variety of marine life so you can spot seals, dolphins and even Basking Sharks. How cool?
• There are nearly 400 types of plants in Cornwall, thanks to its warm climate and the Eden Project.
• Cornwall’s 422 miles of coastline has over 300 beaches, many of which are known as surfing paradises like Newquay. 
•  Other unique things in Cornwall are the Pipewell in Liskeard that’s never run dry, a coach that’s driven by headless horses in Penryn around Christmas, and all the Arthurian legends.

There are definitely many more fun facts about Cornwall, so make sure to have a quick internet search before your visit.

Introducing Tintagel Castle

Built half on the mainland and half on a jagged headland jutting out into the ocean is the medieval fortification of Tintagel Castle. The castle has a very long history filled with well-known Arthurian legends. 

It is possible that the area was occupied in the Romano-British period. Due to various luxury items that were found here, archeologists believe that Tintagel was an elite settlement in the early medieval period. In 2016 and 2017 two digs actually revealed the outlines of a 5th or 6th century palace. 

The impressive location of Tintagel inspired many poets and rulers over the centuries. In the 12th century, Geoffrey of Monmouth named this castle as the place where King Arthur was conceived. This legend likely prompted Earl Richard of Cornwall to build a cliff-top castle here in the 13th Century. Since the following Earls of Cornwall weren’t interested in the castle, it slowly fell into disrepair.

In the 19th and 20th century the ruins became a tourist destination thanks to the Arthurian legends that became popular in the Victorian Era. 

Today Tintagel Castle is managed by English Heritage. What you see today as you walk around are the ruins of the 13th century castle, and those of the older stronghold. 

Is Tintagel Castle the location of Camelot?

Okay, let’s dig a bit deeper into Tintagel Castle’s association with the legends of King Arthur. The first literature that linked King Arthur to this castle was written by Geoffrey of Monmouth in the 12th Century. In ‘History of the Kings of Britain’ he tells the story of the British king, Uther Pendragon, and his love for Igraine, the wife of Gorlois, the Duke of Cornwall.

In order to protect his wife from Uther, Gorlois hides Igraine in the fortress of Tintagel. Since the castle was impossible to conquer, Uther seeks the help of Merlin the Wizard. Merlin transforms him into the exact likeness of Gorlois. Uther could then enter the castle freely and trick Igraine into taking him to bed where it’s rumored that King Arthur was conceived.

In Geoffrey’s tale there’s actually no mention of Arthur being born in Tintagel or that he visited or owned the castle when he became the king. However, due to the story’s popularity more and more related tales were produced and the site of Arthur’s conception became his birthplace then Camelot itself.

So, do you think that Tintagel Castle is in fact the location of Camelot, the famous fortress of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table? Although I think it’s unlikely, the location of Tintagel is so epic that I can somewhat see the stories of these ancient kings playing out here!

How to get to Tintagel

By Car: Tintagel Castle is located to the west of the village of Tintagel between Padstow and Bude in North Cornwall. If you arrive by car, you can park in Tintagel. There are plenty of car parks in the village and the parking fee seemed to be the same everywhere. We paid £3 for 4 hours of parking. If you don’t have your own car but would like to enjoy the freedom of a private vehicle, then you can always  hire a car  to get to Tintagel.

If you want to do the circular walk before your timed entry, then make sure to arrive an hour before that.

By Public Transport:  If you arrive by public transport you can take Buses 95, 181, 182 and 212  travelling between Truro, Wadebridge, Camelford, Bodmin, and Bude. You can disembark at the Visitor Centre bus stop and start your circular walk to and around Tintagel Castle. 

If you’re coming from further afield, I recommend getting the train to Truro. There are train services to and from London, Penzance, Exeter and Plymouth. From there just take Bus 95 to Tintagel. Please note that the bus takes about 2 hours to reach Tintagel. Make sure to plan your journey with  Trainline  which also provides information on bus fares.

Top Tip – If you’re planning on travelling across the UK by train a lot, then  check out some Railcard options   which allow you to save some pennies on your train fares.

Cost to enter Tintagel Castle

Admission fee is £17 for adults and £10.10 for children. There are some discount options which you can find further information  on on the website.

However, if you’re a member of the English Heritage, you can visit Tintagel Castle free of charge. You can read about the different kinds of membership  by clicking here.

Good to know! – At the time of our visit you could join English Heritage at the castle for 18 months for the price of a one year membership. Plus you could get your Tintagel Castle ticket refunded if you signed up on the day. I’m not sure if it’s an ongoing deal, but it’s worth checking it out if you’ve been thinking about joining English Heritage.

Is Tintagel Castle worth the entry fee?

I definitely winced a little when we paid the entry fee to visit the castle. However, after exploring the castle, I think it’s worth paying if you love the Arthurian legends. The landscape is also absolutely stunning and the views from Tintagel Island don’t disappoint either. I think it’s worth a visit on a dry and sunny day. Since you have to book online, it’s a bit hard to guess what the weather will be like. 

Therefore, I suggest you keep an eye on the forecast and the booking site and book it as late as possible. In addition, I also recommend you time your booking with low tide. Otherwise you won’t be able to walk into Merlin’s Cave and it would be a shame to miss it.

How long do you need to explore Tintagel Castle?

I would allow at least 4 hours for the whole circular walk. You’ll need at least 15 to 20 minutes just to get to the entrance. If you want to make the most of your visit and get your money’s worth, then make sure to spend as long as possible exploring the castle. The views are amazing and there are many features to see on Tintagel Island. Also, don’t forget about allowing some time to explore the beach either. You can read more about all the things to see further down.

Facilities around Tintagel Castle

Cafés and Picnic Spots   – If you’d like to grab a drink or something to eat then head to Beach Café after your Tintagel Castle visit. The café is ideally placed with a beach view and offers a good variety of hot and cold drinks, lunches and of course delicious cakes. All ingredients are locally sourced.

On a lovely sunny day, I recommend bringing your own picnic with you. You can bring your own picnic blanket and find a great spot to eat anywhere on the grass within Tintagel Castle or on the beach.

In addition, there are plenty of pubs, restaurants and cafés in Tintagel village itself. 

Toilets – There are toilet facilities available next to the Beach Café in Tintagel Castle. There are also public toilets in Tintagel. Please note that you have to pay £0.50 to use these facilities in the village. I suggest you use the facilities in Tintagel before your visit, since the public toilets are at the end of your walk!

What to wear and bring with you?

What to wear depends on the time of year you’re visiting and the weather conditions on the day of your visit. 

I think you can wear basically anything you feel comfortable in. However, one thing I highly recommend is choosing comfortable and supportive footwear. You’ll be walking a lot and the path can be uneven, so you don’t want to be wearing high-heels or flip-flops.

Even on a warm sunny day, I suggest bringing a light jacket or jumper with you, as it will feel windier and chillier on the top of the island.

Although there is a café on the beach, I suggest you bring some water or hot drinks with you and perhaps some light snacks.

Please Note!  – Whatever you bring with you, make sure you either take it home with you or dispose of it responsibly. I suggest bringing a garbage bag with you to collect all your waste then dispose of it when you have the chance. Enjoy your time in nature but Leave No Trace!

Tintagel Castle circular walk

Although once you’ve parked your car you can just head straight to Tintagel Castle, I highly suggest you do a small circular walk. The circular walk, together with walking around the castle, will only be around 4km (2.5 miles) long.

Once you’ve parked, walk along Fore Street in Tintagel village towards the public toilets, which are right behind Spar. Carry on straight ahead, walk through the car park and through a little park that will eventually lead you to Vicarage Hill road. Walk along this road towards St Materiana’s Church and walk through the churchyard.

Please Note! – There are signs warning you about adder snakes in the church yard. These are  the UK’s only venomous snake so just watch your step and stick to the path. 

Once you’ve passed the church you’ll be joining onto the South West Coast Path where you should head to your right. There will a great view point from which you can see the entire Tintagel Island and the bridge that connects it to the mainland. It’s pretty impressive and the circular walk is definitely worth it for this view.

From here, just follow the path leading you to the entrance of Tintagel Castle. You’ll need to show you ticket at this point in order to enter. 

9 features not to miss when visiting Tintagel Castle

Below are 9 features and photo spots you don’t want to miss when exploring Tintagel Castle. Since there’s a one-way system in place you’ll want to make sure you don’t miss anything, otherwise you won’t be able to go back. That way you can definitely make the most of your rather pricey entry fee. 

1. The mainland part of Tintagel Castle: Lower and Upper Courtyard

If you didn’t know, Tintagel Castle actually lies on both sides of the chasm. So, before you head straight to cross the bridge to Tintagel Island, make sure to explore the mainland first. The mainland section consists of two parts: Lower and Upper Courtyards. 

2. Tintagel Castle Bridge

In the Middle Age, there used to be a narrow land bridge that residents used to access the island. However, this bridge disappeared and left the castle divided for centuries. The only way to Tintagel Island was through a set of 150 steps. This was a steep walk down and then back up the cliff. 

In 2019, the two sides of Tintagel Castle were connected by a brand new bridge. The project helped to restore the original route and also gives the chance for more visitors to access Tintagel Castle. 

You can still have the chance to walk down the steep set of steps to the beach after your visit. 

3. The island part of Tintagel Castle: the Great Hall

After crossing the bridge you’ll enter the island section of the castle. This part contains the Great Hall of Earl Richard’s 13th century castle. Here is where he used to entertain his guests and where he made important business decisions. 

4. Dark Age Remains

During the 2016 and 2017 excavations remains of different structures were found from the Dark Ages. This included many small rectangular buildings that date back to the 5th and the 6th centuries. At the time, it was an economically significant site due to its involvement in trade with the Mediterranean world. Whilst the exact function of it is still unknown, it is suggested that it may have been a stronghold. 

5. Changing Coastline Viewpoint

After leaving the Great Hall and some of the Dark Age remains, you’ll arrive to one of the best views from the island. From this viewpoint you can see the beach below you with some natural caves and a cool waterfall cascading into the sand. If you look ahead, you’ll also be able to see miles down the coastline.

The area is a great spot for a coffee break or picnic. If you visit in spring, you can also enjoy the mixture of wildflowers that add a pop of colour to the landscape. Needless to say that this was definitely my favourite section on the entire island.

6. Gallos aka King Arthur’s Statue

The 2.4m (8 ft) tall bronze sculpture is a relatively new addition to Tintagel Castle. It was created by Rubin Eynon who was commissioned by English Heritage to bring the history and legends of Tintagel to life. The statue was completed in 2016 and it was actually easier to fly it in by helicopter. 

Did you know? – Whilst most people refer to it as King Arthur’s Statue, it’s actually called ‘Gallos’ which means ‘power’ in Cornish.

Although the statue has an Excalibur look alike sword in its hand and also a crown on its head, English Heritage neither confirmed nor denied that the statue is King Arthur.

I guess they wanted the statue to represent both the legends of King Arthur but also to remind us of the historical importance of Tintagel. 

Whether the statue is King Arthur or not, I’ve never seen a more dramatic setting for a sculpture than the cliff edge of the rugged Tintagel Island. Have you?

7. Tintagel Castle Gate

Okay you just can’t leave Tintagel Castle without snapping the iconic photo in this open doorway with the stunning sea view ahead. This door leads you to the beach via a steep set of steps. Before the new bridge was built, visitors would’ve had to climb all the way up here to visit the castle. 

8. The waterfall on the beach

Once you reach the beach, get a closer look at the beautiful waterfall cascading into the sand from the cliff above. I don’t think I saw many photos of this waterfall prior to our visit so it was a lovely surprise feature in this already stunning place. 

9. Merlin’s Cave

You can’t leave Tintagel Castle without visiting Merlin’s Cave. The 100 m long sea cave was formed by marine erosion. What’s cool about this cave is that during low tide you can actually walk through the entire length of it. But you really need to time your visit well, as during high tide the cave fills up with water and won’t be passable. During our visit we only managed to get about three-quarters of the way through before we had to turn back.

The cave is believed by many to have been home to Merlin the wizard. Whilst Tintagel Castle became popular after Geoffrey’s tales in the 12th century, Merlin’s cave gained fame after Tennyson published ‘Idylls of the King’. In his tale the infant Arthur was washed ashore at Merlin’s Cave, who then brought him to safety.

Again, whether or not these tales have any truth in them, this is an impressive cave and definitely worth exploring.

Additional things to do in Cornwall

It doesn’t matter when you visit Cornwall, or what the weather is like, you’ll find no shortage of unique things to do and places to see. We definitely managed to visit a variety of iconic locations during our 3-day trip. So, here are some additional places to add to your Cornish road-trip itinerary. 

St Nectan’s Glen Circular Walk – Visit Cornwall’s best kept secret, a sacred site with a stunning 60ft tall waterfall via a 1.8 mile short circular woodland walk. Click here to read it.

Lizard Point to Kynance Cove Circular Walk – A 5 mile circular walk along one of the most beautiful sections of coastline in the South West. Click here to read it.  

Exploring the Lost Gardens of Heligan – Visiting one of the UK’s most popular gardens built in a 19th century Gardenesque style. Click here to read it.

Click here for more historic houses and castles to visit in Cornwall.

In the meantime, you can browse for more hiking trails in the UK and around the world in my Hiking Adventures Series .

Final Thoughts on Tintagel Castle

Although the admission fee to Tintagel Castle is a bit steep, I still enjoyed exploring the ruins of the castle. The landscape itself is well-worth a visit, and the mixture of rich history and legends that surround this area definitely made our visit a unique one.

I was glad that the weather was rather pleasant, so we could see for miles down the coast and enjoy the combination of blue water and lush green. In May, the colourful wildflowers definitely added a bit extra to the already beautiful place. I’m also glad that we visited during low tide, so we could walk into Merlin’s Cave and enjoy the beach for a bit.

Have you ever visited Tintagel Castle or Cornwall in general before? If so, how much of the area did you manage to explore? Let me know in the comments below. 

Now, let your adventure begin,

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36 comments.

Wow it’s so beautiful! I would definitely love to go someday! Walking through Merlin’s cave would be awesome to do as well. The story reminds me of Monty Python 🙂

I hope you can visit Tintagel Castle in the near future Kate. I agree walking through Merlin’s Cave was so much fun, I just wish we could’ve done the whole way. 🙂

These tips are all really helpful! I was researching this area last week as I’m trying to plan a road trip around England, so your post is great timing!

Oh I’m so happy my blog post came at the right time for your trip Krista. I’m sure you’ll have so much fun exploring England, it sounds so exciting.

Tintagel Castle looks like such a fascinating place! The scenery looks incredible and the beach looks amazing! I’ve never visited Cornwall but I’d love to get there one day. It looks like such a beautiful county! I’ll definitely ass Tintagel Castle to my list when I finally get there! Thanks for the great guide!

Thank you Hannah, Cornwall is definitely stunning, and I can see why it’s a prime holiday destination for Brits. You’ll feel like you’re on a trip somewhere abroad. I hope you can visit both Cornwall and Tintagel soon 🙂

What a stunning place! I can only imagine how epic it must have been back when the castle was still intact. I’m not a huge Arthurian legend buff, but I’d still love to visit here one day (and Cornwall generally) just for the history and scenery!

Thanks Maggie, I agree this place must’ve looked insane when the castle still existed. I’m not a massive Arthurian legend fan either, but even then this place was such a cool one to visit. Hope you can come and explore the area soon 🙂

I’ve never heard of Tintagel Castle but now I want to go there immediately! Tintagel Island looks particularly gorgeous, and my kids would love the idea of Merlin’s Cave!

I’m so happy my post inspired you to plan a visit to Tintagel! I’m pretty sure your kids would enjoy exploring Merlin’s Cave and there are some others on the beach you can walk to during low tide so definitely a fun family day out.

Wow! Your article is so interesting and informative, but the photos completely stole my heart! Looks amazing, well done! 🙂

Aww thank you so much for the lovely comment. I’m so happy that you enjoyed my post and photos and found it useful 🙂

What beautiful photos! I haven’t been to Cornwall for several years now, but I really should get over there!

Thank you Bella. Yes this was my first trip to Cornwall and I already want to return. No wonder millions of people visit it every year! I definitely felt like I had a trip to a foreign land 🙂

So beautiful! I especially lol be the statue!

Thank you Sue, I’m glad you enjoyed my post 🙂

Tintagel Castle is beautiful! Love that there is so much history behind it.

I agree, Tintagel Castle is truly beautiful and well worth a visit!

Thanks for such an informative post! We hope to visit and I appreciated all of your helpful historical background and your useful tips for visiting. I also really enjoyed your clarifications on how you took each photo. You’ve got a great eye, they are beautiful!

Thank you so much Erica. I’m so glad to hear that my post was useful for you. I hope you’ll also have a lovely time exploring the castle 🙂

I love Cornwall but have never been to Tintagel. I’ll have to check it out next time I’m down there

There are just so many stunning places in Cornwall aren’t there? We really had to narrow down what to see in 3 days. I hope you can visit Tintagel on your next trip to Cornwall 🙂

I had never heard of this place before, so thank you for such a great blog. I found it super useful, and I want to visit this place in the future! I also love your Youtube videos 🙂 They’re a great addition to the written info.

Thank you Cristina, I’m so glad you enjoyed both the blog post and our video. I hope you can come and visit Tintagel in the near future!

Possibly a side note, but WOW you’re pictures are absolutely beautiful!! You could convince me to go anywhere! hahha

But anyways, I…am kinda leaning towards Tintagel Castle being Camelot…but maybe I’ve just watched too much of the show Merlin, haha

Thank you Kay I’m happy you liked my photos 🙂 Yes who knows, I can see why this place was picked as a possible location for Camelot. It’s beautiful. Hope you can visit it soon.

I did not have the Cornwall area on my UK radar at all. Now I will have to think about a stop at Tintagel Castle and find out more about the link to Camelot. But with 300 beaches in Cornwall I might be torn between beach and sight seeing. But the scenery on that hike looks amazing.

Cornwall is so beautiful and unique. We crated a map with all the stunning places to visit, but soon realised that we would need weeks to explore it all, so we just picked a few. I hope when you book a trip to Cornwall, you can visit Tintagel too 🙂

Wauw, the waterfall on the beach and Merlin’s cave are so cute! Can’t wait to visit any time soon! Thanks for a great post!

Thank you Annelies, I thought that waterfall was pretty unique too. I hope you can visit soon 🙂

I had never heard of this before but now I won’t forget. The location and all the rugged beauty are incredible. I love the stories too, especially about the cave.

Thank you Melinda. I’m glad to hear that Tintagel is now on your radar. I’m sure you’ll enjoy your visit too 🙂

What an amazing place! Legends and History combine to make an impelling case for King Arthur! And the castle itself was obviously a very important place back in the 5th Century so?? Another great blog, full of interest, great photos and good advice.

Thank you Karan, I agree Tintagel has the potential to be Camelot.

Beautiful Videos.. seen most of your cornwall videos and liked all of them. Very detailed and beautifully done. I am going there next week and will be visiting selected places. Just a quick question, was is straight forward to fly your drone at all these places? I know that you were using Mavic Mini 2 which is under 250 grams and has less limitations but still were you challenged by anyone during flights, specially around Tintagel castle?

Thank you so much for the lovely comment, we’re happy that you enjoy our videos. We managed to use our drone at most places, but we always use the drone restriction app which tells you if an area is restricted such as Lizard Point and Kynance Cove. With Tintagel, we flew the drone before we entered the castle and away from the main path and from people (we make sure to fly it very early in the morning). I recommend checking the drone flying weather app too, as this area can be very windy. Hope you enjoy your trip 🙂

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Tintagel Castle, Cornwall: The Legend of Merlin and King Arthur

Tintagel castle has been on my “must-see places in cornwall” list for several years. imbued with mythical tales of forbidden love, merlin and king arthur, and with royal linkage stemming back as far as the black prince, this medieval site has something for all the family..

Tintagel is a village in north Cornwall on the Atlantic coast. Originally named, Trevena (which means “village on a mountain”), the main draw for those visiting is to see the ruins of Tintagel Castle. Owned and preserved by English Heritage, Tintagel Castle covers a vast amount of coastline. From an impressive and photogenic footbridge to Merlin’s Cave, there’s plenty to explore, discover and learn.

Before I share details of our visit, let me impart some valuable information about location, membership and parking (basically, the essentials).

Planning Your Visit to Tintagel Castle

Book your visit.

I’d recommend booking your tickets and time slot for Tintagel Castle online. This will guarantee your entry and is a good idea during peak season. We went in the height of summer and it was busy. Entry is free for English Heritage members.

I recently became a member of the Cornish Heritage Trust . It covers entry to English Heritage sites in Cornwall and is considerably cheaper in comparison.

If you’re not a member of either, adult entry to Tintagel Castle is £17.60 and £10.60 for a child, 5 and over (2022 prices, including donation).

Parking for Tintagel Castle

There are a number of car parks in Tintagel village, all just a short walk from the entrance to the castle site and grounds. These are pay and display car parks which also cater for campervans and motorhomes. We used King Arthur’s Car Park (PL34 0DA). Having arrived early for our visit, there were plenty of spaces. I think I paid about £4 for about half a day.

Accessibility and walking to Tintagel Castle

There’s a bit of a downhill stroll to the reception/kiosk for Tintagel Castle. This means there’s a strenuous uphill walk back to the village. There is a private landrover shuttle service available if you can’t quite face it.

Given the nature of the site and the location of Tintagel Castle, wheelchair access is limited. There is a comprehensive access guide on the English Heritage website.

Can you visit Tintagel Castle without paying?

You cannot visit the ruins without paying entry. However, you can walk on the surrounding land and coast path for free. I’m not sure you’ll be able to see much of what remains of the castle though.

What’s so special about Tintagel Castle?

Where do I start?

Apart from its precarious position, loitering on the edge of a cliff, Tintagel Castle is mostly known for being connected to King Arthur but there remains much dispute about his existence. If he lived at all, King Arthur is believed to have been around in the 6th Century.

Scepticism around King Arthur, Merlin, Camelot and the knights of the round table remain largely due to the lack evidence and “Dear Diary” entries from this period. Welsh texts from the 9th century mention an Arthur-type warrior figure who lived several hundred years before.

Many of the tales surrounding King Arthur are linked to the 12th Century writings of Geoffrey of Monmouth. He evolved characters, like Merlin, and elaborate stories, such as Uther Pendragon’s seduction of Queen Ygerna. Geoffrey Monmouth also wrote of Tintagel Castle being the place of the King’s conception. Other elements, like Camelot, are believed to have been added later.

True or not, King Arthur, Merlin and all the legendary tales make for a fantastic story. I don’t mind whether it’s fact, fiction, or a romanticised version of something that happened once. Such narratives only add to the mythical air surrounding Tintagel Castle. Plus, it’s good to keep us guessing, and talking, hundreds of years later.

Me and my 11 year old son visited Tintagel on one of the hottest days of the year. I planned to cover every location on offer but the lunchtime heat proved to be too much. We covered most of the site but skipped a few bits towards the end of our visit.

Let me take you round so you know what to expect.

Tintagel Castle footbridge

The first landmark you come to as you enter the castle site is the famous footbridge. Completed in 2019, the Tintagel Castle footbridge replaced an original crossing that disappeared centuries before.

I consider the bridge to be a welcome addition to the castle grounds. It’s considerably wider than some photos had me believe and I felt totally safe walking across it (I’m not phased by walking across bridges but I know some people are). Using the footbridge saves taking the old route which involves loads of steps (there’s still some uphill sections and climbs involved in visiting the site). The bridge takes visitors to the top of the island where you can see the rest of the ruins and remains (there are lots!).

The ancient castle door

If there’s one well known image connected to Tintagel Castle, it’s the ancient arched oak castle door. You’ll find it after you’ve crossed the bridge; it’s kind of randomly on the left. As we were early visitors, we managed to bag some pictures without queuing or interruption. People were lined up when we were making our way back though.

The door opens onto some wooden steps which lead down to a small rocky cove. At high tide there isn’t any beach or cove available to explore. But I’m sure it’s no less beautiful.

Gallos sculpture of King Arthur

Gallos, the Cornish word for “power,” is definitely emulated in the impressive 8 foot bronze statue of King Arthur. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Rubin Eynon’s statue is a nod to Tintagel’s rich royal history beyond the myth of King Arthur.

The sculpture of King Arthur is, in my view, iconic. It’s one feature of Tintagel Castle that I wanted to see for myself. I think it’s clever and manages to capture something historical and classic, while also being contemporary in style. I like how there are missing elements to the bronze King Arthur, yet our mind’s eye fills in the gaps. Perhaps the gaps in the sculpture are a nod to the lack of certainty around King Arthur’s very existence (apologies for the analysis, it’s the psychologist in me!) The sculpture changes as you move around it too; it’s a bit like a visual illusion.

The Gallos sculpture is a popular photo location and we had to wait our turn to strike a pose with the King!

Merlin’s Cave

I intended on exploring Merlin’s Cave and timed our visit to Tintagel Castle to coincide with low tide to make this possible. However, the relentless summer heat left us flagging. Me and Henry decided we wouldn’t scale the steep steps down to the beach but stopped and appreciated the scenery. I wish I’d packed our swimmers, we could’ve done with cooling off in the sea.

Merlin’s Cave is said to have been the wizard’s home. There’s even an etching of Merlin carved into the cliff; another offering by artist, Rubin Eynon.

If you want to venture into Merlin’s Cave, do time your visit around tide times. At low tide you can walk through the cave to the other side. I’ve heard it’s quite rocky at the back though!

More Places to Visit in Tintagel

While Tintagel Castle may be the village’s crowning glory, there are other places of interest to visit in and around the area.

One place I’d like to go, which has also received positive reviews is Tintagel Old Post Office . Owned by the National Trust, this pretty building is over 600 years old and has a sweet, appealing cottage garden. You can wander around the garden and walk around inside. I think I just fancy a stint in the post room!

Stepping outside of Tintagel village, and just a 15 minute drive away, is St Nectan’s Glen . I really, really want to go here. It’s meant to be quiet and scenic, plus the quieter months are wonderful for exploring Cornwall’s woodland. If that’s your thing too, you can find posts here on Idless Woods, near Truro , Cardinham (Bodmin), and Kennall Vale.

Have you been to TIntagel Castle? It’s definitely a place to learn more about the myths and legends associated with Cornwall.

If you like visiting places in Cornwall with rich storytelling and interesting tales, you’d probably like St Michael’s Mount in Marazion .

Author: plbedford

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Tintagel Castle: Visit King Arthur’s Castle On The Coast Of Cornwall

Tintagel Castle is a place in Cornwall where history is so epic it has inspired myths across the centuries - even Britain's great King Arthur.

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Tintagel castle, where history meets legend, visiting tintagel, more to see.

There is a coastal village in the beautiful region of Cornwall that houses one of the most fascinating sites in Britain: Tintagel, bathed by the Atlantic Ocean, is known as the place where myth meets history - it's a place that has been intertwined with Arthurian myth for centuries, one just as epic as the other. The cinematic windy cliffs of Tintagel host the ruins of a millenary fortress and the remains of a bustling civilization so awe-inspiring that across the centuries, many have wondered if Tintagel was the real location of King Arthur’s birth or even the legendary Camelot. Tintagel offers ravishing seaside views, mysterious archeological sites, legendary caves, and the most charming coastal town on this side of Britain; it’s not hard at all to see why Tintagel is the stuff of legends.

The history of the Tintagel region goes back to the 1st century AD, during the Romano-British period, but archeological evidence suggests it only became an important region during the lower Middle Ages. Though no awe-inspiring Roman ruins indicate little opulence during that period, many Roman artifacts have been found on-site. After the end of the Roman occupation in the 5th century, with the rise of the Kingdom of Dumnonia, Tintagel Castle is built, and Tintagel is thought to have become a bustling center of commerce, with evidence of several residences on the peninsula and evidence of trade and luxury goods from far across to the Mediterranean in much greater volume than at anywhere else in Britain and Ireland; Tintagel was possibly the seat of Dumnonian royalty.

By the 8th and 9th centuries, though, the area was completely deserted, and the original castle fell into decay. The reasons for this are unknown and might never be explained. Despite its fall, the Dumnonian Kingdom in Tintagel might have left echoes throughout the centuries, for in the 1100s, Geoffrey of Monmouth would, for the first time in writing, link the historical Tintagel to Britain's most famous figure: King Arthur.

Related: 10 Best Things To Do In St. Ives, Cornwall

Tintagel And King Arthur

Arthurian myth is an uncentered web of works that have been changed and added to through the centuries. Historians debate on whether King Arthur existed or not; mentions of rulers leading the Britons against the Saxons have been found, dating back to the 9th century, but the stories and myths we know and love today can be traced back to Geoffrey of Monmouth 1138 work History of the Kings of Britain - widely thought to be mostly fiction, despite its title.

In this writing, Monmouth places Arthur’s conception at Tintagel Castle, wherein Uther Pendragon, Arthur’s father, can enter only by magic.

• It is said that Richard, Earl of Cornwall and brother of Henry III, built himself a castle on the Tintagel peninsula in the 1230s in an attempt to recreate Arthurian romanticism.
• In the 1300s, Edward the Black Prince reworked parts of the already crumbling new Tintagel Castle - Richard’s construction was evidently quite a lot cheaper than the original Tintagel stronghold.

By the 15th century the castle would be deserted again, and it would continue to be so for several centuries, but Tintagel’s role in Arthur’s kingdom and stories keeps on growing and gaining a life of its own: in 1480, Antiquary William Worcester named Tintagel as Arthur’s birthplace, and from the 1600s on Tintagel was incorporated further as Arthur’s castle, from where he ruled with his Knights of the Round Table and Merlin the Wizard, and Tintagel island as the remains of the legendary Camelot. Merlin’s Cave, down on Tintagel Cove, beneath the gorge that time excavated between the original main gate and the castle’s courtyard, served as inspiration for Alfred, Lord Tennyson’s Arthurian poems Idylls of the King.

It was like this that Tintagel’s history fed into the Arthurian myths, and the myths ended up shaping its history in an ever-evolving circle. It’s easy to see how the dramatic cliffs of Cornwall and the towering medieval structures of which only ruins remain today would have been the birthplace of epic myths.

Tintagel Castle was a clifftop stronghold, sitting mighty atop Tintagel Island (which is technically a peninsula). The way from Tintagel’s city center and Castle Road is a trek that can be made by foot, but it can be a steep path.

Visitors can hire Land Rover shuttle services for lifts and down the hill to the castle grounds.

Entrance To The Castle

The entrance to the castle is where visitors need to show their castle tickets and also where the original castle gateway used to sit. The first ruins of a great construction start to appear as the Cornwall sea shimmers off the coast below. During the early Middle Ages, the entrance and the main area of the castle were divided by a narrow bridge that was eroded by time. For years visitors who came to Tintagel had to climb down the steps into the bank of the beach below and back up the rocks into Tintagel’s main courtyards, but since 2019 a brand new suspended bridge has been placed.

Island And Main Tintagel Courtyard

The first thing that greets visitors after crossing the bridge is a doorway into what used a great medieval fortress, dramatically opening up to the ruins of the castle and the stormy sea below. Ruins of walls, room divisions, flooring, and convivial areas have been uncovered, making it possible to walk where royalty and their entourage and servants once lived in this medieval palace.

On the island, footpaths and remains of early Dumnonian settlements are also visible. Replicas of some of the archeological findings of the region dot the ruins, adding to the experience, as do the expert guides that will explain the history and myth of Tintagel’s ruins.

Related: Cadbury Castle: The Site Of King Arthur's Legendary Court At Camelot

Gallos, King Arthur’s Statue

Across the island, standing watch over the ruins, stands Gallos. Gallos , which is the Cornish word for “power,” is a 2.4-meter-tall bronze sculpture depicting a ghostly figure wearing a crown and supported by a longsword. At once imposing and ephemeral, the kingly statue by artist Rubin Eynon is popularly known as “King Arthur’s statue,” inspired both by the myths and the history of Tintagel as a medieval fortification.

The Tintagel Gardens

The - literally - flourishing remains of a medieval walled garden are a sight in the atmospheric Tintagel. Historians believe Richard, earl of Cornwall, built the garden in homage to the tale of Tristan and Iseult, whose tragic medieval love story is depicted in carved stones in the garden.

Tintagel Cove And Merlin’s Cave

Tintagel Cove is a partially hidden gem below the Tintagel cliffs. When the tide is low, it's possible to enter the mystical Merlin’s Cave, nestled directly beneath the rocks of Tintagel Castle. The mysterious beauty of the cave and the dramatic rise of the cliff above it make it easy to imagine a towering castle sitting atop it, weathering the storms of Cornwall - and it’s even easier to see why it’s been the inspiration for so many epic myths.

Exploring the cave and playing at the beach is a perfect way to end a visit to Tintagel, as a beachside café offers a place to relax and take in all the activities of the day.

Always check the tides before visiting the beach. There are no lifeguards on post.

• Access: Parts of Tintagel Island can be explored individually, but to enter the Castle ruins and cross the bridge, visitors need to book a visit and purchase tickets at the English Heritage website.
• Ticket Prices: $18 USD for adults, $11 USD for children
• Hours: 10 AM to 2:30 PM

Tintagel village is the perfect headquarters from which to visit Tintagel Castle, and it’s well worth staying in the town for a couple of days to see everything. Tintagel is home to cozy cafés, specialty shops, exoteric haunts, and even more historical landmarks. The Victorian Camelot Castle Hotel and Tintagel’s Old Post Office dating back to the 14th century, are just a few of the attractions this stormy, mythical seaside town has to offer.

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Tintagel Castle & Merlin’s Cave

Planning a visit to Cornwall, UK? Make sure you add Tintagel Castle and Merlin’s cave to your itinerary- you won’t regret it. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit.

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Ever heard of King Arthur? The wizard Merlin? Knights of the Round Table?

Just the names alone conjure up images of battles & wizards & men in armour rescuing damsels in distress.

JUMP AHEAD TO...

Tintagel Castle and Merlin’s Cave

There is some (ok, a lot) of debate on whether or not King Arthur and Merlin really existed, and whether Tintagel Castle is Camelot- home of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. It’s generally accepted that it’s not (due to pesky things like dates and historical accuracy) but the legends persist.

Even better, at the bottom of the cliffs on which Tintagel Castle stands is a cave- which therefore HAS to be Merlin’s Cave (there’s even a picture of him carved in to the rock!)

Whether you believe the myths and legend or not, it’s a wonderful place to add to your Cornwall Road trip itinerary (along with these 40 other best places to visit in Cornwall!) Our daughter loved it, even as a teenager.

Here’s everything you need to know to help you plan your visit to Tintagel Castle and Merlin’s Cave!

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Want to see what Tintagel Castle and Merlin’s Cave is REALLY like?

Watch the video below and experience Tintagel Castle and Merlin’s cave up close (including some incredible drone shots.)

NOTE: This video was filmed in 2018- before the new bridge was finished.

Tintagel Castle & Merlin's Cave Cornwall - Home of King Arthur! See inside Merlin's Cave

Tintagel castle cornwall.

Whether you believe the legend or not, a real castle stood on this hilltop- and the ruins are still open to be explored today, thanks to English Heritage. You don’t need to be a member of English Heritage to visit, but members get reduced prices.

If you’re not already a member and are planning some UK road trips , you might want to join- there are so many incredible places to discover, including places like Stonehenge .

You can join English Heritage on arrival, or in advance here

Where is Tintagel, King Arthur’s Castle located?

Tintagel is a small town on the northern coast of Cornwall, England. Tintagel Castle is right on the outskirts of this town.

What is Tintagel Castle famous for?

The Castle is one of the most spectacular castle ruins in Britain- mainly due to it’s imposing views and also due to being built on a small island (which you used to have to walk up, but is now connected by a long bridge)

There are plenty of ruins to explore, including old doors, walls, battlements and an incredible statue of a historic Knight.

Tintagel Castle Parking

Parking in Tintagel is pretty good as long as you get there early or visit outside of the school holidays.

We spent the night in our motorhome at King Arthur’s car park in Tintagel village itself, after a lovely day spent at Boscastle.

There are loads of car parks in this one small town and nearly all of them allow overnight motorhome parking for a small fee. It’s not possible to book in advance. We chose to stop at King Arthur’s car park because it was the flattest one which had tarmac (normally we wild camp with our motorhome , often on grass, but it had rained so much and we didn’t want to get stuck in the mud!)

The car park cost £4 for 24 hours – which was pretty good for a major tourist attraction! It’s a normal car park though, so don’t expect any services/ water/electric/ toilet/ waste emptying.

How much does it cost to visit Tintagel Castle?

From our parking in Tintagel, we could walk to the English Heritage office in less than 5 minutes (that’s before the LONG walk down to the ruins themselves.)

Price for non-members was £9.30 with gift aid (in 2018). Check the opening times on their website as they close over the winter except for weekends. Dogs are allowed but MUST be kept on leads. Please remember the climb is VERY steep , so it’s not suitable for young dogs, or any other dog with walking difficulties. Same applies to humans.

There is a land rover service which runs during holidays- we were very thankful for this on the way back! I think it was £2 per person per trip.

Can you visit Tintagel castle without paying?

Yep, you can, although not up close. The surrounding land is free to walk on, so head to the coast path and you’ll be able to see the island and even Merlin’s cave clearly (on a sunny day) but not much of the ruins.

Alternatively, you can use your travel drone and take it out over the sea- be sure not to get too close or break any drone flying laws.

Are there toilets at Tintagel Castle?

At the bottom (before the climb up to the castle), there’s a little shop, cafe & toilets (including disabled and baby-changing facilities). Use these- there are NO toilets or facilities up at Tintagel Castle .

How long is the walk up to Tintagel, King Arthur’s Castle?

We climbed up to Tintagel Castle ruins- very VERY steep steps and we were all exhausted when we got to the top. There is only one way up and down so there was lots of stopping and starting as the steps are very steep and narrow. Did I mention they were steep??

It probably takes around 20 minutes of non-stop climbing from the cafe at the bottom to the ruins at the top. The more elderly or less fit might really struggle- we saw several people give up and turn back. Unfortunately, because it is an ancient castle built onto a hill, there is no other way to get up there!! But the views are definitely worth it once you’re up.

Tintagel Castle Bridge?

Since our last visit in 2018, a new 70m bridge has been built across to the island where the castle ruins stand.

Apparently, there used to be in the Middle Ages, so English Heritage has rebuilt it- reducing the need to climb 100+ steps! Don’t forget though, that the bridge only goes to the top of the island. If you want to go down to Merlin’s Cave or the beach, the only way is the steep steep stairs.

There is a 40mm gap between the two sides of the bridge- so perhaps you might prefer the steps if you’re scared of heights!! (Although during global pandemics, they’ve set up a one-way system, so you don’t get a choice!) They do have suggestions for wheelchair users/ those with limited mobility to go at the end of the day so they can return via the bridge, but everyone else needs to prepare for stairs)

King Arthur Statue at Tintagel Castle

Make sure you go to visit the Knight of Tintagel Castle. He’s right on the cliff edge- about another 20-minute walk from the top of the stairs- but it’s a fantastic sculpture and well worth a photo.

There is also an old store which the inhabitants of the castle would have used to keep food fresh- it’s only a tunnel now but cool to see and walk through it.

Apart from that, there are a load of stone walls. They don’t really make much sense on the ground but you can see the layout of the castle really clearly on our drone shots in the video.

What about food and drink at Tintagel Castle?

Once on the island, there are no facilities at all.

Many people choose to take a picnic up with them, and honestly, that’s probably a good idea. We didn’t even take a bottle of water, which was a mistake.

Just bear in mind that you will need to carry everything up all those steps with you… and bring it all back down again as there are no bins up at the castle. Still, it’s a lovely place to stop for lunch- especially if you’re lucky like we were and go on a sunny day- the views are breathtaking.

Merlin’s Cave Cornwall

When you’re at the castle, make sure you visit the beach and check out Merlin’s Cave,

To do this, you’ll need to check the tide times at the office and either go before or after your trip to the Castle.

As caves go it’s pretty impressive- you could see the light from the other side and the waves were crashing in. Jade decided she just HAD to go stand on the rocks in the middle of the cave,  which were still surrounded by water! Check it out in the video above.

Merlin’s Cave Tide Times

As you can see in the video below, the bay at the base of the hill is beautiful- the sea is clear and such a gorgeous turquoise colour. Merlin’s Cave is in this bay- but please be wary of the tides, especially if you’re not used to English tides. They come in crazy fast from BOTH sides of the cave and the currents can be very strong.

The English Heritage Ticket office can tell you the tide times for that day and when it’s safe to explore Merlin’s Cave- we were lucky that it was high tide when we arrived so it was going out all morning, leaving us time to explore Merlin’s Cave for a few hours!

Where to stay when you visit Tintagel

Camelot Castle Hotel

We love travelling by Motorhome (here are 20 reasons why!)   but occasionally we find a hotel which is so cool we want to ditch the van and stay there for a night.

One such place is the Camelot Castle hotel, which overlooks the castle and those incredible sea views. If you’re lucky enough, try to grab a sea-view room, although any of them are worth it.

Other great places in Tintagel include:

So, is Tintagel Castle and Merlin’s Cave worth a visit?

Merlin’s cave was definitely our favourite part of the day, although the drone shots of Tintagel Castle are pretty special too. After we’d cheated and paid for the landrover to take us back up the hill to the entrance (don’t judge until you’ve been!) we spent some time exploring the beautiful village of Tintagel.

Our advice would be don’t even bother visiting if it’s a rainy day- the views just won’t be the same. Fog might be fun though- very atmospheric!

Other posts you might find useful:

• How to plan the ultimate UK Road trip
• Unmissable England road trip destinations
• Top 12 best UK road trip ideas for your next trip

See all our UK travel tips and ideas

Have you ever been to Tintagel Castle? Would you like to visit? Feel free to pin these to your England Travel board to save for later:

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

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This place looks amazing! I visited Cornwall on a field trip with uni in June and would have loved to explore more but didn’t have the flexibility. I love exploring the scenes of myth and legend. The castle must have been quite spectacular and intimidating when it was standing.

Oh no- such a shame you didn’t get a chance to visit properly. I hope you get time to go back!

Looks amazing! Definitely worth that climb. I had heard of Tintagel before but didn’t realize it was so big

Neither did we! Such an incredible place- and what a view!!

I just saw this in FTB and had to click! I’m in love with castles AND Merlin legends, so this is just perfect for me! Your photos are gorgeous! <3

Fantastic! I hope you get to go- you’ll love it there. Don’t forget to go and explore Merlin’s cave at the bottom.

This is one of the places I would most like to visit in the world. I know there are probably cooler things to see in England, but the Arthur legend has been so important to my life (I even took an Arthurian Literature course when I was in university) that it would be incredible for me to be able to actually go to the place where it all “started”. <3

Wow! I didn’t even know you COULD take an Arthurian literature course- that’s amazing!! England (and indeed the whole of the UK) has so much history that it’s absolutely impossible to see it all- even when you live here! So pick the bits that appeal to you and go see them! Maybe we should RV swap for a month?!?! 🙂

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Woman&Home

10 impressive UK castles to visit for a historical and memorable getaway

Posted: September 5, 2023 | Last updated: September 5, 2023

UK castles are some of the most impressive and beautiful in the world, so why not pay a visit to one this year? Whether you're booking a getaway to see what the UK has to offer or are a UK resident planning a day trip, these culturally and historically significant castles should definitely be on your must-see list.

The castles of the British Isles tower over some of our most spectacular landscapes, from castles in Scotland steeped in grandeur to pretty châteaus straight from a French fairytale, and each has a unique story. When visiting some of these majestic castles, you'll get insight into some of the most fascinating history England has to offer.

Click through to read the full story... By Helena Cartwright

1. HIGHCLERE CASTLE

Location:  Hampshire, RG20 9RN |  Website:  highclerecastle.co.uk

Downton Abbey fans will recognize Highclere Castle as the stately home of the aristocratic Crawley family. The Grade I-listed house was once the site of a medieval palace but was transformed in the 19th century by Sir Charles Barry—architect of London’s Houses of Parliament. The castle is set in 1,000 acres of parkland that was designed by landscape gardener Capability Brown and is also home to an impressive exhibition of Egyptian artifacts. 

For a real treat, book in for the castle’s delightful afternoon tea, with sandwiches, scones, and a glass of bubbly.

2. WINDSOR CASTLE

Location:  Berkshire, SL4 1NJ |  Website:  rct.uk/visit/windsor-castle

A royal residence for more than 900 years, Windsor Castle is the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle. To marvel at the castle’s full regal splendor, approach from the Long Walk, a three-mile tree-lined avenue that runs to the castle through Windsor Great Park, where 500 red deer roam.

Look out for the castle’s iconic Round Tower, which flies the Royal Standard when the Queen is in residence, and visit the elegant gothic masterpiece of St George’s Chapel in the Castle’s lower ward, where the Duke and Duchess of Sussex tied the knot in 2018.

3. BOLSOVER CASTLE

Location:  Derbyshire, S44 6PR |  Website:  english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/bolsover-castle/

Built on the site of a medieval fortress, the grand halls, fountains, and gardens of Bolsover Castle were always meant to impress. The Stuart mansion sits high on a ridge above the Vale of Scarsdale, with sweeping views across the Derbyshire countryside. Its interior is lavishly decorated, but Bolsover has also been voted English Heritage’s spookiest site, with staff reporting mysterious footsteps, slamming doors, muffled voices, and the ghost of a boy holding visitors’ hands. 

The castle is home to an indoor riding school, where regular performances of classical dressage take place.

4. TINTAGEL CASTLE

Location:  Cornwall, PL34 0HE  | Website:  https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/tintagel-castle/

Tintagel Castle is shrouded in magic and mystery. Teetering on the windswept north Cornwall coast, the castle’s ruins sprawl from the mainland across a rocky precipice above the Atlantic Ocean.

From the early Middle Ages, the headland was a stronghold of Cornish kings, and their tales inspired the legend that King Arthur was born here. This led medieval nobleman Richard, Earl of Cornwall, to build a castle at the site. After exploring the castle, head down to the secluded sandy beach below, where kids can paddle in rock pools and explore the magical Merlin’s Cave. 

5. EDINBURGH CASTLE

Location:  Midlothian, EH1 2NG  | Website:  edinburghcastle.scot

Perched upon a mighty volcanic rock in the heart of the Scottish capital, the towering walls of Edinburgh Castle cut a striking silhouette against the skyline. The 12th-century castle was a key fortress of the Scottish Kingdom and has the dubious honor of being the most besieged place in Britain.

The castle’s lofty position provides spectacular views that stretch to the wild hills beyond Edinburgh, while the castle is also home to the nation’s crown jewels, the Honours of Scotland. Finish a visit at the castle tea rooms, to enjoy cakes or local specialties such as haggis and cured Scottish salmon. Grab a window seat for views across the city. 

6. HEVER CASTLE

Location:  Kent, TN8 7NG |  Website:  hevercastle.co.uk

Set within 125 acres of Kent countryside, Hever ticks all the ‘fairytale castle’ boxes—and it's a great place for a UK staycation too.

The 13th-century building is surrounded by a large medieval moat, with a wooden drawbridge leading to a towering stone gatehouse. The castle was the childhood home of Henry VIII’s second wife, Anne Boleyn, and Tudor tapestries and portraits decorate its grand halls. The gardens feature a 100-year-old yew maze, boating lake, and mock Tudor village. Guests can stay overnight in a luxurious 5-star B&B within the castle grounds. 

7. CHATEAU RHIANFA

Location:  Isle of Anglesey, LL59 5NS |  Website:  chateaurhianfa.co.uk

The pointed turrets of Château Rhianfa emerge in glorious fashion from the hills of north Wales and are inspired by the chateaux of France’s Loire Valley.

Its ornate architecture, built in the mid 19th century, seems curiously at home on the Welsh island of Anglesey. The chateau enjoys spectacular views across the Menai Strait to the towering peaks of Snowdonia and has been tastefully converted into a stylish hotel and B&B, with 27 bedrooms and an award-winning restaurant too.

8. EILEAN DONAN CASTLE

Location:  Western Highlands, IV40 8DX |  Website:  eileandonancastle.com

This picturesque castle is one of the most iconic sights in the Scottish Highlands. Perched on a tiny island at the meeting point of three great lochs, the castle looks out to the Isle of Skye and over the wild, forested mountains of Kintail. It's without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in Scotland.

The original 13th-century castle was all but destroyed during the 1719 Jacobite uprising, but was restored to its former glory in the early 20th century, with the addition of a magnificent stone bridge that connects the island to the mainland. 

Book into the charming Eilean Donan Cottage that overlooks the castle, an ideal base for exploring the spectacular Highland surroundings.

9. BAMBURGH CASTLE

Location:  Northumbria, NE69 7DF |  Website:  bamburghcastle.com

Once the royal seat of the Kingdom of Northumbria, Bamburgh was a fearsome stronghold throughout the Middle Ages. The Norman-built fortress spans nine acres, and rests upon a rocky volcanic crag, with views stretching down the windswept Northumberland coast and across the North Sea to the Farne Islands.

Its fortified walls—11ft thick at points—were a formidable line of defense against marauding armies. Today, you can enjoy a more serene stay in the castle’s elegant, turreted guard towers, 150ft above the white sands of Bamburgh Beach.

10. WARWICK CASTLE

Location:  Warwick, CV34 4QU|  Website:  warwick-castle.com

On the banks of the winding Avon sits the towering medieval fortress of Warwick Castle. With a history dating back 1,000 years, the Midlands site was first home to a wooden fort built by William the Conqueror and was redesigned with stone ramparts and portcullis during the 12th century. 

Today, the castle’s medieval history has been brought vividly to life, and kids will love exploring the Horrible Histories Maze, castle dungeons, replica trebuchet, and impressive archery exhibition. There’s even medieval-themed glamping—perfect for a family getaway on site.

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