Cornwall, a land rich in history and folklore, offers a magnificent array of castles. Granted some of these may be ruins of bygone eras but some are also resplendent private estates.
Either way, visiting these castles is a good excuse to visit parts of Cornwall you wouldn’t else go to.
So Let’s delve into the history and also see how easy it is to visit these architectural gems. Each castle section will include how to get there, opening times, admission fees, and parking costs. The question is Lancelot, are you ready to explore the 9 best castles in Cornwall?
St. Michael’s Mount
Nestled on a tidal island off the coast of Marazion, St. Michael’s Mount is an iconic Cornish landmark. The castle has served as a monastery, fortress, and family home since the 12th century.
Appreciate stunning coastal views and lush gardens during your visit. It’s accessible by foot across the causeway during low tide or by boat during high tide. The castle is open from Sunday to Friday, 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM. Admission is £10 for adults, with discounts available for children and families. Parking is available in Marazion at £5 for a day’s stay. Plan your visit.
Tintagel Castle
Tintagel Castle, often linked with the legendary King Arthur, lies on the rugged cliffs of North Cornwall.
Reach this dramatic site by car, or for a scenic route, use the local bus service. It’s open every day from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM during summer and 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM in winter. Admission costs £14.50 for adults. There’s a large paid parking area nearby. Visit the official website for detailed information.
Pendennis Castle
Situated in Falmouth, Pendennis Castle is an imposing fortress built by Henry VIII. The castle is reachable via car or Falmouth’s local bus service. It’s open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day, with an entry fee of £12.60 for adults. Free parking is available on-site. Learn more on their official site.
St. Mawes Castle
Opposite Pendennis Castle, on the eastern side of the Fal Estuary, St. Mawes Castle is another masterpiece from Henry VIII. Arrive by car or take a scenic ferry ride from Falmouth. It opens daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Adult admission is £7.90, and parking is free. Plan your visit to this unique destination.
Restormel Castle
Located near Lostwithiel, Restormel Castle offers a serene escape surrounded by countryside. Reach the castle by car or take a train to Lostwithiel station followed by a short walk. It’s open every day from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with an entry fee of £5.90 for adults. Free parking is available on-site. More information here.
The Castle Bude
In the seaside town of Bude, The Castle Bude is a historic building now hosting a museum, art gallery, and restaurant. You can reach Bude by car or bus. Open every day from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, entry is free. The Castle has a small car park with additional paid parking in the town. Learn more on their official site.
Launceston Castle
Perched atop a hill in Launceston, this medieval fortress offers commanding views. Arrive by car or train. Open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, entry is £5.90 for adults. There’s a paid car park nearby. Visit the official website for more details.
Caerhays Castle
Caerhays Castle on Cornwall’s south coast is a privately-owned manor house offering stunning gardens. Reach it by car. It’s open from mid-February to mid-June, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Tickets for gardens and castle tours are £12.50 for adults. Free parking is available. Plan your visit.
St Catherine’s Castle
Near Fowey, St Catherine’s Castle is a small 16th-century fortress. Accessible by car or foot from Fowey, it’s open all year round and admission is free. Limited free parking is available nearby. Find more information here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where in Cornwall is King Arthur’s Castle?
While the exact location of King Arthur’s castle remains shrouded in mystery, Tintagel Castle in North Cornwall is often linked with the legendary king. Its dramatic setting, steeped in rich history and folklore, draws countless visitors intrigued by the Arthurian legend.
Is Tintagel Castle Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Tintagel Castle offers a unique experience that blends ancient history and stunning natural beauty. Its dramatic location on North Cornwall’s rugged cliffs presents breathtaking views of the coastline. The castle’s fascinating past, dating back to the 5th century, only adds to its allure.
What is the Largest Castle in Cornwall?
Pendennis Castle in Falmouth stands as one of the most imposing and extensive castles in Cornwall. Commissioned by Henry VIII, it played a crucial role in coastal defense throughout history. Today, it offers visitors panoramic views of the Fal Estuary and hosts a range of exhibitions and events.
Does Cornwall Have a Royal Castle?
While Cornwall doesn’t have a royal castle in the sense of serving as a residence for the reigning British monarch, several castles in the region bear strong ties to historical royalty. For instance, Henry VIII established Pendennis Castle and St. Mawes Castle. Additionally, Restormel Castle once served as a residence for the Earl of Cornwall.
Conclusion
The captivating castles of Cornwall offer a window into the county’s illustrious past and present. From iconic landmarks like St. Michael’s Mount to hidden gems like St Catherine’s Castle, every history enthusiast will find something to cherish. Plan your visit and immerse yourself in Cornwall’s enchanting castle heritage.
