Entrance to the Castle

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

Take in the dramatic cliff-top views, before you follow in the footsteps of Tintagel’s medieval inhabitants and cross the footbridge to the island. You will need a timed-ticket to enter the castle, cross the bridge and explore the island - book today and plan your visit at the best time for you.

From Dec 2024 - Apr 2025, Tintagel Bridge will be repainted for conservation purposes. Our painters will be using a special scaffold so the bridge can stay open for you to enjoy. 

Early Medieval Buildings

Discover the dramatically-sited remains of Tintagel’s early medieval settlement, where Cornish rulers lived and traded with far off shores, importing exotic goods and trading tin. You can see the deep defensive ditch which protected the settlement as you pass through the castle entrance.

Imagine what life was like at Tintagel as you walk through the footprints of houses built between the 5th and 7th centuries AD on this remote and beautiful headland. Recent excavations have given a fascinating insight into the people who lived at Tintagel at this time. 

The Island Garden

Discover the remains of the medieval walled garden, which Earl Richard may have built in reference to the famous love story of Tristan and Iseult. Engraved stepping stones around the garden retell the tragic medieval tale.

As you explore the island, take a moment to look out for wildlife on the clifftops. The island is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and home to plenty of flora, fauna, wildlife and birds through the year. You can often spot seals in the water, and the cliffs team with coastal birds enjoying shelter from the winds. Read more about our sustainability statement.

A Taste of Cornwall

With its bright and airy decor which reflects the coastal setting, the Beach Cafe is the perfect place for a tasty snack. We have light lunches, delicious cakes and freshly-baked scones on offer, locally sourced where possible, including our traditional Cornish pasties.

Ingredients are locally sourced where possible and meals are prepared to order with plenty to choose from, including sandwiches, traditional Cornish pasties, and delicious sweet treats and local beers.

For those summer days, we have Cornish ice cream available to cool you down. You can also treat your four-legged friends to some dog ice cream at Tintagel Castle.

You can find allergen and nutritional information here.

Down on the Beach

Relax on the beach below the castle - one of Tintagel's best kept secrets! In winter you can blow away the cobwebs with a walk along the shore or stop and admire the waterfall falling onto the sand from the cliffs above. In summer, children can build sandcastles or explore Merlin's Cave when the tide is out.

Please note that there is no lifeguard service in operation on the beach, and you may wish to check the tide times when planning your visit. Due to constant natural movement by the sea and tides, the route involves clambering over rocks, so please take extra care – especially in wet conditions. It is not recommended for visitors with mobility concerns, or those with prams and young children.