The ruins of the legendary 12th-century Tintagel Castle stand on windswept cliffs in North Cornwall on one of England’s most dramatic coastlines. The medieval castle was built in around 1250 by Richard, Earl of Cornwall and is believed to be the birthplace of King Arthur who, as legend has it, was protected from the evil magician Merlin by his magical sword, Excaliber. The castle is shrouded in mystery and little is actually known about its history. Today, the remains of the castle stand on rugged cliffs high above the sea. Over the years, the mainland has been eroded by the elements and the castle is now only accessible via a narrow bridge and steep steps. Many claim that Tintagel is one of the most romantic places in the UK, with beautiful walks along the Cornish Coastal Path.
Air: Exeter International Airport. Road: Bus: Public services. Car: Tintagel Castle is situated on Tintagel Head, 0.8km (0.5 miles) from the main road; it cannot be reached by car. A Land Rover service is however in operation between April and October.

Tintagel Castle, Tintagel, Cornwall PL34 0HE, UK
Tel/Fax: (01840) 770 328
Website: www.english-heritage.org.uk

United Kingdom