Tintagel Castle Village: Detailed Guide for Tourists

Tintagel Castle Village is a picturesque coastal town in Cornwall, England, known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and association with the legendary King Arthur. This detailed guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your visit to this enchanting destination.

What are the Parking Options in Tintagel Castle Village?

Visitors to Tintagel Castle Village have two main parking options:

1. Pay and Display Car Park: There is a large pay and display car park located on the B3263 (Bossiney Road) directly beside the tourist information centre. This is the most convenient option for accessing the castle and other attractions in the village.

2. Free Car Park: Another option is a free car park beside St Materiana’s Church at the top of Church Hill. This is a bit further from the main attractions, but it can be a good choice if the pay and display car park is full.

What are the Other Attractions to Visit in Tintagel Castle Village?

In addition to the iconic Tintagel Castle, there are several other fascinating attractions to explore in the village:

1. Tintagel Old Post Office: A 14th-century medieval manor house now owned by the National Trust, featuring fascinating rooms and artifacts, along with a lovely garden.

2. St Materiana’s Church: A historic church located in the village, worth visiting for its architectural and historical significance.

3. Merlin’s Cave: A large tunnel beneath Tintagel Island, associated with the legend of Merlin and featured in Alfred, Lord Tennyson’s poem The Idylls of the King.

4. Condolden Barrow: A burial mound on Tintagel Island, believed to be the resting place of Cador, a 6th-century king of Cornwall.

5. King Arthur’s Great Halls: Located near the village, these halls are another attraction for those interested in Arthurian legends.

6. Rocky Valley Labyrinths and St Nectan’s Glen Waterfall & Hermitage: Prehistoric sites nearby that offer additional historical and natural attractions.

How Accessible is Tintagel Castle Village for People with Disabilities?

Tintagel Castle Village and its attractions present some accessibility challenges for visitors with disabilities:

1. Path and Steps: The castle is accessed via a long path from the village, followed by steep steps and a wooden footbridge to Tintagel Island. This can be challenging for people with mobility issues.

2. Facilities and Access: English Heritage, which manages the site, provides some facilities for visitors with disabilities, but the terrain is generally rugged and may not be fully accessible. It is advisable to check with English Heritage for specific accessibility information before visiting.

What are the Additional Details and Specifications for Visiting Tintagel Castle Village?

Here are some additional details and specifications to keep in mind when planning your visit to Tintagel Castle Village:

• Opening Hours: Tintagel Castle is open daily from 10am to 6pm, with the last entry one hour before closing.

• Admission: The entrance fee varies depending on the date, so it is recommended to check the English Heritage website for current prices and to pre-book online for a 10% discount.

• Visitor Numbers: The castle attracts up to 200,000 visitors annually, making it advisable to avoid peak times for a more comfortable visit.

• Historical Significance: Tintagel Castle has a rich history, with evidence of settlements dating back to the Romano-British period and significant trading links with the Mediterranean world during the Late Roman period.

• Legend and Myth: The site is deeply associated with the legend of King Arthur, with stories of his conception and other Arthurian tales.

References

1. Tintagel Castle
2. Visit Tintagel Castle
3. Tintagel Castle – Travel Guide
4. Tintagel, Cornwall