Tintagel Castle, nestled along the rugged Cornish coastline, is a captivating destination for hikers and history enthusiasts alike. This comprehensive guide will take you through the best hiking trails, points of interest, and practical information to help you plan your Tintagel Castle hike.
What is the Best Time to Visit Tintagel Castle for Hiking?
The ideal time to visit Tintagel Castle for hiking is during the spring and autumn seasons. These periods offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds compared to the busy summer months. Springtime is particularly beautiful, with blooming primroses and lush, new bracken, while autumn brings windy days and spectacular views of seabirds.
What are the Hiking Trails at Tintagel Castle?
Tintagel Castle and its surrounding area offer several hiking trails, each with its own unique features and challenges. Here are the three main hiking trails:
- Tintagel Circular Walk
- Distance: 3.3 miles (5.3 km)
- Terrain: Challenging with uneven cliff paths
- Time: Approximately 2 hours, plus time to explore the site
- Start/End: Tintagel Castle Visitor Centre
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Features: Includes Tintagel Beach, Barras Nose, and the South West Coast Path. The walk offers spectacular views and the opportunity to explore the castle ruins.
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Tintagel, Church and Castle Walk
- Distance: 2.4 miles (3.9 km)
- Terrain: Easy-moderate
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Features: This walk includes King Arthur’s Castle, Merlin’s Cave, the Old Post Office, and the ancient parish church on the cliffs.
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Tintagel to Rocky Valley Walk
- Distance: 3.8 miles (6.1 km)
- Terrain: Moderate
- Features: This walk takes you along the coastline past towering headlands and island bird colonies to the golden cove at Bossiney Haven, returning via Rocky Valley.
How Accessible is Tintagel Castle for Hikers?
Tintagel Castle and its surrounding trails have limited accessibility due to the rugged terrain. The natural landscape includes uneven ground, steep steps, and elevation changes, making it challenging for wheelchair users. However, the trails are generally accessible for hikers, and dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a lead.
What Facilities and Services are Available at Tintagel Castle?
Tintagel Castle and the surrounding area offer the following facilities and services:
- Parking: Pay-and-display car parks are available in Tintagel village.
- Food and Drink: The Beach Café within Tintagel Castle offers refreshments, and there are picnic areas with stunning views.
- Toilets: Located in Trevena square, operated by Tintagel Parish Council, with reduced facilities during the winter months.
What are the Key Points of Interest at Tintagel Castle?
Tintagel Castle and its surrounding area are rich in history and legend. Here are the main points of interest:
- Tintagel Castle
- History: Started by Reginald, Earl of Cornwall, around 1140 and extended by Richard, Earl of Cornwall. It fell into ruin during the time of the Black Prince.
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Legend: Associated with King Arthur and Merlin, though these connections are largely romanticized.
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Merlin’s Cave
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Location: Uncovered at low tide near Tintagel Haven.
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Barras Nose
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Features: A headland with significant prehistoric importance, divided from the mainland by a rocky scarp.
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Rocky Valley
- Features: Known for its labyrinthine carvings and ruins of mills in the woods.
Additional Tips for Visiting Tintagel Castle
- Transport: Use service 594 from Wadebridge to Boscastle for public transportation.
- Accommodation: Various options are available in Tintagel village, including hostels, B&Bs, and self-catering cottages.
References
- National Trust – Tintagel walk | Cornwall – National Trust
- iWalk Cornwall – Walks around Tintagel – iWalk Cornwall
- Komoot – Top 20 Hikes and Walks around Tintagel – Komoot
- English Heritage – Walking Guide: Tintagel Circular Walk – English Heritage
- South West Coast Path – Tintagel King Arthur Walk – South West Coast Path