Tintagel Castle
50° 39' 50" N 4° 45' 37" WThe famous Tintagel Castle has a long and rich history dating back to the 3rd and early 4th century.
Tintagel village has a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants and pubs. It is here where you can park and start your journey to Tintagel Castle; a 10 minute walk from the village to the coast. There is a also a shuttle service if you would prefer not too walk as it is a steep way down.
There is lots to explore on the headland itself to take in the history of the area. Stunning views of the coast in both directions can be enjoyed whilst walking around the island.
Tintagel Island is connected to the mainland by a foot bridge which was completed in August 2019. The foot bridge reconnected Tintagel’s divided landscape. In the Middle Ages, Tintagel’s residents walked from one side of the site to the other using a narrow land bridge as high as the clifftops. But the crossing disappeared between the 14th and 17th centuries, leaving the castle divided by a natural chasm.
The new Tintagel Bridge reinstates the original route, offering visitors the chance to experience Tintagel Castle the way its medieval inhabitants once did.
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- Carpark (Charges apply)
- Public Toilets
- Cafés (Open all year)
- Shop
- Hazard: Cliffs
- Hazard: Deep Water
- Lifeguards not available
- Dogs allowed (All year)
- 10 minute walk from carpark
History of Tintagel Castle
Tintagel Castle is a medieval fortress located on the rugged cliffs of Tintagel Island in north Cornwall. It is a place shrouded in myth and legend, said to be the birthplace of King Arthur, the legendary British king. The castle is believed to have been built in the 13th century, but there is evidence of earlier structures on the site dating back to the 5th or 6th century.
The castle was the seat of the Earls of Cornwall in the medieval period, and it was an important center of trade and commerce. The castle was abandoned and fell into ruin by the 16th century. However, in the 19th century, it was restored and rebuilt by the businessman and politician Richard Vyvyan, who aimed to create a romanticized version of the castle.
Today, Tintagel Castle is a popular tourist attraction, visited by thousands of people every year. The ruins of the castle, perched on the cliffs overlooking the sea, provide a stunning backdrop to the beautiful and rugged coastal scenery. The site has undergone significant restoration and conservation work in recent years, and visitors can explore the castle ruins and learn about the history and legends associated with the site through interactive exhibits and guided tours.
Travel / Parking information for Tintagel Castle
Directions to Tintagel Castle
From the A30, take the exit onto the A39 towards Camelford. Follow the A39 until you reach the turn-off for the B3263 towards Tintagel. Continue on the B3263 into Tintagel village. Follow signs for Tintagel Castle, which will lead you to the car park and visitor center.
Parking for Tintagel Castle
Tintagel Castle has a dedicated car park located near the visitor center, providing convenient access to the site. During peak tourist seasons, the car park can fill up quickly, so it’s advisable to arrive early. Additional parking is available in Tintagel village, with a short walk to the castle. Shuttle services may also be available from the village to the castle entrance for those who prefer not to walk. Please adhere to local parking regulations and be mindful of residents and other visitors when parking.