The best things to do in Tintagel

Tintagel is a place where history and legend collide. It is dominated by its world-famous castle, but if you look beyond the main attraction, you will find Bronze Age carvings hidden in valleys, tidal beaches that disappear twice a day, and some of the best coastal walking in the UK.

Whether you want to hunt for Merlin’s cave, swim in a natural waterfall, or watch the sunset from a medieval churchyard, here is our curated guide to the best activities in Tintagel.

Our Top Picks

These three experiences are the absolute essentials for any visit to Tintagel.

1. Cross the Bridge to Tintagel Castle

English Heritage recently installed a cantilevered suspension bridge that recreates the original medieval crossing. It is an engineering marvel that links the mainland to the island.

• The Experience: Walking across the gap with the sea crashing 190 feet below is exhilarating. Once on the island, you can explore the Dark Age ruins and find the 8ft tall bronze statue of ‘Gallos’ (the watcher) on the headland.
• Merlin’s Cave: At low tide, you can walk down to the beach below the castle and enter the tunnel that cuts right through the island. Legend says this is where Merlin lived.

2. Walk to St Nectan’s Glen

Located just a mile from Tintagel (in Trethevy), this feels like a lost world. It is a 60ft waterfall cascading through a hole in the rocks into a shallow pool, surrounded by ancient woodland.

• The Walk: Park at the car park in Trethevy and follow the stream inland. It is a magical walk through temperate rainforest. You can rent wellies at the entrance to wade into the waterfall pool.
• Good to Know: It is considered a spiritual site by many, so expect to see ‘clooties’ (ribbons) tied to the trees and piles of balancing stones.

3. Explore Rocky Valley

If you walk north along the coast path (towards Boscastle), you will reach Rocky Valley. It is a deep slate canyon carved by the Trevillet River.

• The Highlight: Near the ruined mill, look closely at the rock face behind the old buildings. You will find two labyrinth carvings dating back to the Bronze Age. It is a mystery how they got there, but they are unique in the UK.

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History & Architecture

Tintagel Old Post Office

This National Trust property on the high street is one of the most photographed buildings in Cornwall. It isn’t a standard post office; it is a 14th-century medieval manor house with a sagging slate roof.

• The Visit: It offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval domestic life. The cottage garden at the back is a peaceful escape from the busy main street.

King Arthur’s Great Halls

Built in the 1930s by a millionaire custard manufacturer (really!), this building is entirely dedicated to the Arthurian legend.

• The Interior: It houses 72 exquisite stained glass windows telling the story of the Knights of the Round Table. Even if you aren’t a history buff, the light show and the sheer scale of the hall are impressive.

Walks & Views

• St Materiana’s Church: Walk up to the cliffs to find this Norman church. It stands alone on the windswept headland. It is arguably the best sunset spot in the village.
• Trebarwith Strand: A 40-minute coastal walk south takes you to Trebarwith Strand. It is a stunning surf beach that is completely covered at high tide. Grab a drink at The Port William pub, which sits on the cliff overlooking the waves, before walking back.

Parking Tips

• The Castle Hack: The main Visitor Centre car park fills up instantly. Try the private car parks on the road down to the castle, or park at the King Arthur’s Arms in the centre (paid).
• Access: The walk down to the castle (and back up) is steep. There is a Land Rover shuttle service that runs in the summer if you want to save your legs!

Guides