Tintagel Castle: King Arthur's Legendary Castle in Cornwall

Tintagel Castle, Cornwall

A Complete Guide

Tintagel Castle is steeped in history and mythology. With links to the legendary King Arthur and The Knights Of The Round Table. Take a step back in time and take in this breathtaking landscape and scenery. Check out our guide to Tintagel Castle and what you can get see, do and expect. Use the table of content below to jump right to the content you need.

How to get to Tintagel Castle

If you're heading to Tintagel Castle in Cornwall, England but are not sure how to get there. We've added some directions for you to get here by car, bus and by foot and bike.


By Car:

You can drive to Tintagel Castle, and there is a paid parking lot nearby. The postcode for the car park is PL34 0DA.


By Bus:

There are several bus routes that run to Tintagel, including the 95 and 95A from Wadebridge and the 219 from Boscastle. There are also seasonal bus routes that run from other parts of Cornwall, such as Newquay and Padstow. The bus stop is a short walk from the castle.


By Train:

The nearest train station to Tintagel is Bodmin Parkway, which is about 25 miles away. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to Tintagel. There is also a smaller train station at nearby Camelford, which is about six miles away.


By Bike or Foot:

Tintagel's is located on the South West Coast Path which runs along the Cornish coast. Which is a popular long-distance 630-mile walking and cycling route.


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Tintagel Castle Entrance Fee

Is it free to go to Tintagel Castle? No, it is not free to visit Tintagel Castle. The site is managed by English Heritage, a charity that cares for over 400 historic properties in England, and admission fees help to support the ongoing conservation and management of the castle.


How Much Does It Cost To Visit Tintagel Castle

Tintagel Castle varies depending on the time of year and whether you book in advance online or purchase tickets at the site. There is a charge for Tintagel Castle which is £14.80 for 1 adult. With advance booking, you can save 10%! There are concessions available for kids, students, seniors, and families. Check the English Heritage website for up-to-date pricing and opening times.


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Tintagel Castle Opening Times

In summer months which are April to October, the Castle and grounds are open daily from 10 am to 6 pm, with the last entry one hour before closing.


Then in the winter months of November to March, the Castle and grounds are open from 10 am to 4 pm. The last entry is at 3 pm, one hour before it closes.


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Parking in Tintagel

The parking fee varies depending on the time of year and whether you book in advance online or pay on the day. There are a lot of car parks to choose from with varying charges. From knowledge the car parks closer to the Castle cost more. It's worth noting that the car park has a limited number of spaces, and during peak times, it can fill up quickly.


Tintagel has several car parks where you can park your car. Here are a few options:


  1. King Arthur's Car Park: This car park is located in the heart of Tintagel village and has over 100 spaces. It is open year-round and charges an hourly rate for parking.
  2. Tintagel Visitor Centre Car Park: This car park is located next to the Tintagel Visitor Centre and has about 70 spaces. It is open year-round and charges an hourly rate for parking.
  3. Castle Road Car Park: This car park is located near Tintagel Castle and has about 30 spaces. It is open year-round and charges an hourly rate for parking.
  4. Bossiney Road Car Park: This car park is located about a mile from Tintagel village and has about 50 spaces. It is open year-round and charges an hourly rate for parking.
  5. Trevena Square Car Park: This car park is located about a mile from Tintagel village and has about 30 spaces. It is open year-round and charges an hourly rate for parking.


Please note that parking availability and rates may vary depending on the season, and some car parks may have time limits or restrictions. It's always a good idea to check the signage and regulations before parking.


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Are There Toilets At Tintagel Castle

Tintagel Castle itself does not have toilets but there are toilets opposite the Tintagel Castle The Beach Cafe. There are public toilets available in Tintagel. Here are a few locations where you can find them:


  1. Tintagel Castle: There are public toilets located at Tintagel Castle that are free to use for visitors.
  2. King Arthur's Car Park: This car park has public toilets available for a fee.
  3. Tintagel Visitor Centre: The visitor centre has public toilets that are free to use for visitors.
  4. Trebarwith Strand Beach: The beach has public toilets available for a fee.
  5. Bossiney Road Car Park: This car park has public toilets available for a fee.


Please note that availability and fees for public toilets may vary depending on the season, and some toilets may have limited hours of operation. It's always a good idea to check for signage or ask locals for information on the closest public toilets.


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Tintagel Circular Walk

If you love hiking or walking then you'll want to check out the Tintagel Circular Walk. It's a scenic walk that takes you through the countryside and along the coastline around Tintagel. Here is a brief description of the walk for you:


  • Start at the Tintagel Visitor Centre and head north towards Tintagel Castle. Follow the footpath that leads to Barras Nose, a scenic headland with panoramic views of the coastline.
  • From Barras Nose, continue along the South West Coast Path towards Rocky Valley. The path follows the coastline and passes through fields, woodlands, and rocky outcrops.
  • At Rocky Valley, you can take a detour to visit the St. Nectan's Glen waterfall, a popular attraction in the area.
  • After visiting the waterfall, head back to the South West Coast Path and continue towards Trebarwith Strand. This part of the path offers stunning views of the coastline and the sea.
  • From Trebarwith Strand, follow the footpath that leads inland towards the hamlet of Trewarmett. The path passes through fields and meadows, and offers beautiful views of the countryside.
  • From Trewarmett, follow the footpath that leads back to Tintagel village. The path passes through fields and woodlands, and eventually leads back to the Tintagel Visitor Centre.


The Tintagel Circular Walk is approximately 6.5 miles long and can take between 2 to 3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and any stops you make along the way.


What is the Tintagel Circular Walk

A breathtakingly beautiful trail takes you on a journey through the stunning landscapes and fascinating history of Tintagel. This circular route is perfect for anyone who loves the great outdoors, offering awe-inspiring views of the rugged coastline, charming villages, and historic sites such as Tintagel Castle.


Is the trail accessible for all?

The Tintagel Circular Walk is a moderately challenging walk and may not be fully accessible for everyone. Here are a few factors to consider:


  • Terrain: The walk includes sections of the South West Coast Path. These can be steep and uneven in places, so keep this in mind before setting off. The footpaths cross fields, woodlands, and rocky outcrops.
  • Stiles and gates: The footpaths may include stiles and gates.
  • Weather conditions: The walk's along the coast, so as you can imagine it's open to the elements. Keep in mind the wind, rain, and rough sea conditions. So double check the weather before setting off.


Where does the Tintagel Circular walk Start?

It starts at the Tintagel Visitor Centre where you'll head north towards Tintagel Castle.


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How Long's The Walk The Tintagel Circular Walk?

The Tintagel Circular Walk is approximately 7.3 miles long (shown in the map below) and an average of 3 hours 31 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and any stops you make along the way. Check out AllTrails to find shorter and alternative walks that suit you.

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What Was Filmed At Tintagel - A Famous Filming Location

Yes, Tintagel has been featured in many films and TV programmes. We've compiled a list of films and shows that have featured this historical village and area:


  • "King Arthur: Legend of the Sword" (2017): Directed by Guy Ritchie. It features several scenes filmed in and around Tintagel like the castle ruins and cliffs of Tintagel.
  • "The Camomile Lawn" (TV miniseries, 1992): TV series, based on the novel by Mary Wesley, was partly filmed in Tintagel.
  • "The Eagle of the Ninth" (1977): Directed by Kevin Connor and starring Anthony Higgins and Laurence Naismith, was partially filmed in Tintagel.


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The History Of Tintagel Castle

Tintagel Castle is a huge part of the legendary history spaning over centuries. Famed with King Arthur and the Knights Of The Round Table. The castle and surrounding areas have breath views. Here's a very brief history on Tintagel Castle.


  • Prehistoric times: Evidence of human settlement dating back to Neolithic times, around 3500 BC.
  • Roman times: Romans established a settlement at Tintagel during the 3rd and 4th centuries AD. It was an important trading post possibly due to its location.
  • Early Medieval period: It became the seat of the rulers of the Kingdom of Dumnonia in the 5th or 6th century
  • Legend of King Arthur: Famously associated with the legend of King Arthur. Legend says he was born here.
  • Construction of the castle: Current castle ruins are believed to date from the 13th century, although some parts of the structure may be older. It was built by Richard, 1st Earl of Cornwall, brother of King Henry III of England.
  • Decline of the castle: It was largely abandoned by the 16th century, and by the 18th century, it was in ruins. It was not until the 19th century that the castle became a popular tourist destination.
  • Restoration and preservation: Efforts have been made in the 20th century to restore and preserve the castle ruins.


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How Old Is The Castle At Tintagel?

It's believed the castle ruins date back to the 13th century. It's also believed that some parts of the castle may be older. Tintagel Castle was built by Richard the 1st Earl of Cornwall. The castle ruins sit on an older site, with evidence showing it dates back to the early medieval period.


Excavations in more recent years have revealed evidence of a complex of buildings. This includes a large hall and a courtyard, suggesting that it was an important centre of trade and political power in its time.


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Is Tintagel Castle Worth Visiting?

Yes, Tintagel Castle is definitely worth visiting if you are interested in mythology, legendary tales, history, and architecture. I loved coming here as a kid and learning more about King Arthur and the legends that surround the castle and village. What kid doesn't love stories of knights, castles and swords? But as an adult, it's a fascinating and dramatic site. Tintagel Castle's located on the rugged coastline of Cornwall, with stunning views. Make sure you take your camera!


Explore the castle ruins, including the remains of a great hall, a chapel, and other buildings. Learn more about its history and legends through the exhibits and displays in the visitor centre. The new footbridge is also a unique and thrilling experience to take in.


Down at Tintagel Castle, there are toilets a café and a gift shop. The castle's great for all ages and a fun day out for all.


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What is Tintagel Castle famous for?

Tintagel Castle is famous for being the reputed birthplace of King Arthur, the legendary British monarch. It is on a rocky headland looking over the sea, with incredible views. Its long and fascinating history dates back to Roman times. It's also associated with Arthurian legends making it one of the most famous and iconic landmarks in England.


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Did King Arthur live in Tintagel Castle?

This is very much a matter of debate among historians. According to legend, Tintagel was the birthplace of King Arthur, and the castle ruins on the clifftops above Merlin's Cave were believed to have been his stronghold.


There's little evidence to support that King Arthur actually lived in Tintagel Castle. The castle ruins date from the 12th century, long after the time of King Arthur, and the site was likely a trading post rather than a fortress.


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Is it worth paying for Tintagel Castle?

Yes, if you're interested in history and the legend of King Arthur, then Tintagel Castle is well worth the price of admission. The castle ruins are set in the stunning Cornish coast, and they offer a glimpse into the lives of the people who lived there over a thousand years ago.


With fantastic views of the surrounding area and rugged coastline and Cornish countryside it beauty is enough to draw you in. The visitor center features exhibits on the history and legends of Tintagel, and there are guided tours available for those who want to learn more.


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What can you see at Tintagel without paying?

The coastal path that runs along the cliffs above Tintagel Castle is also accessible without paying admission. From the path you get stunning views of the coastline and castle ruins. Just walking the coastal is breathtaking as it is. It's a great place to take a walk and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Also if you have a drone and fly it safely and in accordance with the current laws, you can get some epic shots.


How to see Tintagel Castle for free

While there is an admission fee to enter Tintagel Castle, there are a few ways to see the castle for free or at a reduced cost:


  • Join a guided walk: The South West Coast Path runs along the cliffs beside Tintagel Castle, and there are many guided walks available that pass by the castle. While the walks themselves may not be free, they are often less expensive than the admission fee for the castle, and you can still see the castle and its stunning setting from the outside.
  • Visit during English Heritage's free admission days: English Heritage occasionally offers free admission to its properties on certain days throughout the year. Keep an eye on their website or social media accounts to see if Tintagel Castle is included in any upcoming free admission days.
  • Explore the area around the castle: The Tintagel Castle ruins are perched on a rocky headland overlooking the sea, and the surrounding landscape is beautiful and worth exploring on its own. Take a walk along the coast, explore the village of Tintagel, or visit the nearby St Nectan's Glen waterfall for a lovely day out without entering the castle itself.


Can you visit Tintagel Castle for free?


While it may not be possible to see the castle for free with all options, there's plenty of ways to enjoy the scenery and history of the area without paying the admission fee.


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Can National Trust members visit Tintagel Castle for free?

No, National Trust members cannot visit Tintagel Castle for free. Tintagel Castle is managed by English Heritage, which is a separate organisation from the National Trust, and therefore, admission fees are not covered by National Trust membership.


However, English Heritage does have its own membership program, and members of English Heritage can visit Tintagel Castle for free, as well as over 400 other historic properties and sites managed by the organisation throughout England.


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The New Tintagel Castle Bridge

The new Tintagel Castle bridge is a marvel of modern engineering and a stunning addition to the already impressive castle ruins. The bridge was completed in 2019 and spans 190 feet between the mainland and the headland. This creates a dramatic entrance to the castle and offers incredible views.


The bridge is a sleek, steel-and-glass design a real engineering feat. Whether crossing the bridge or admiring it from a distance, the new Tintagel Castle bridge is a must-see for anyone visiting Cornwall.


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How Did They Build Bridge At Tintagel Castle?

The new bridge at Tintagel Castle was built using a combination of traditional and modern construction techniques. The project was led by English Heritage, who commissioned Ney & Partners, a Belgian engineering firm, to design the bridge.


The bridge was constructed in two parts. First, the engineers dug deep foundations into the headland and installed steel supports to anchor the bridge to the cliff face. Then, they used traditional construction methods to create a concrete deck, which was clad in local Cornish slate to blend in with the natural surroundings.


The main span of the bridge, which measures 69 metres (226 feet), was built off-site and transported to Tintagel by helicopter. Then hoisted into place using cranes, with the whole process taking just four hours to complete.


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What Is The Statue At Tintagel Castle?

The Gallos Statue, created by the artist Rubin Eynon, stands on the cliffs near the entrance to the castle. It depicts King Arthur and was unveiled in 2016. The statue is made of bronze and has become a popular attraction for visitors to Tintagel.


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King Arthur’s Statue At Tintagel

You can find a statue of King Arthur on the cliffs above Tintagel Castle. Commissioned in 2016 by English Heritage. It's eight feet tall and depicts King Arthur holding his sword Excalibur. Created by the sculptor Rubin Eynon and is made of bronze.


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Gallos Sculpture By Rubin Eynon

Gallos Sculpture is a statue created by the artist Rubin Eynon. It depicts King Arthur and stands on the cliffs near the entrance to Tintagel Castle in Cornwall, UK. The bronze statue was completed in 2016. The statue is inspired by the legend of King Arthur the ruler of the Kingdom of Camelot.  The name "Gallos" means "power" or "might" in Cornish, and it is fitting for a sculpture of such a legendary figure.


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Do You Have To Pay To See King Arthur Statue Tintagel?

Yes, the statue is located on the southern end of the castle island, and admission to the castle is required to access it. Since the castle is the main attraction of the village.


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Things to do in Tintagel Village 

A lot if not all of Tintagel village is geared towards King Arthur, you'll see this from the pubs to resturants and gift shops in between. It's all about King Arthur here. There are a few other things you can do in Tintagel whilst your visiting.


King Arthur’s Great Halls

If you're a fan of the legend of King Arthur, then a visit to King Arthur's Great Halls in Tintagel, Cornwall is a must. This unique attraction was built in the 1930s to bring the legend of King Arthur to life, and it has been a popular tourist destination ever since.


The Great Halls feature 72 amazing stained glass windows that tell stories of the legend of King Arthur. The windows are beautifully detailed and feature characters from the tales, such as King Arthur himself, Queen Guinevere, Sir Lancelot, and Merlin.


Visitors can also see a replica of King Arthur's round table, which is said to have been where he and his Knights of the Round Table met to discuss important matters.


In addition to the Great Halls, there is also a short film about the legend of King Arthur that visitors can watch. The film is narrated by actor Robert Powell, who is known for his portrayal of King Arthur in the BBC miniseries "Merlin."


After visiting the Great Halls, be sure to check out the gift shop, where you can find a variety of King Arthur-themed souvenirs, such as books, toys, and clothing.


King Arthur's Great Halls is a popular wedding venue, so it is important to check the website in advance to see if the attraction is open to visitors on the day you plan to visit.


The Old Tintagel Post Office 

The Old Tintagel Post Office is a quirky museum set inside a 600-year-old slate medieval property in Tintagel, Cornwall. It has served many purposes over the centuries, including farmhouse, post office, and now museum.


Visitors can explore the five rooms of the museum, including old bedrooms, a kitchen, and a parlor. The rooms are furnished with period furniture and artefacts, giving visitors a glimpse into life in Tintagel centuries ago.


The museum also has a pretty garden out the back, where visitors can relax and enjoy the views of the village.

The Old Tintagel Post Office is a great place to learn about the history of Tintagel and see how people lived in the village centuries ago. It is also a great place to simply relax and soak up the atmosphere of this charming Cornish village.


Haunted?

Some people say that the Old Tintagel Post Office is haunted. There have been reports of strange noises, lights moving around on their own, and even ghostly apparitions. Whether or not the museum is truly haunted is up to you to decide.


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Places To Visit Near Tintagel Castle

Whilst you're visiting Tintagel Castle we've compiled some of our favourite local place for you to visit nearby. Here are some suggestions:


  • St. Nectan's Glen: Waterfall located a few miles from Tintagel surrounded by beautiful woodland. There's a café, gift shop, and a small visitor center. There is a charge to see the waterfall up close, £8 for adults, £4 for kids. Children under 5 go free. Dogs are allowed too.
  • Boscastle: Fishing village located five miles from Tintagel and features narrow streets lined with picturesque cottages. There are several shops, restaurants, and cafes in the village, as well as a scenic coastal path. You can also visit Boscastle Witchcraft Museum.
  • Trebarwith Strand: Sandy beach located three miles from Tintagel. Popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
  • Port Isaac: Historic fishing village located 12 miles from Tintagel. Famous for its harbor, narrow streets, and whitewashed cottages. Popular filming location for TV shows and movies. The village has several pubs and restaurants.
  • Bodmin Moor: Wild and rugged area of Cornwall located 20 miles from Tintagel. Known for its granite tors, wild ponies, and ancient monuments. It's a walker dream on the moors.
  • Dozmary Pool - This tranquil lake, nestled in the heart of Bodmin Moor, is steeped in legend and myth. It's said to be the resting place of Excalibur, King Arthur's legendary sword, and to be inhabited by the Lady of the Lake. A visit to Dozmary Pool is a chance to immerse oneself in the magic of Cornwall.
  • Hurlers Stone Circles - These ancient stone circles, nestled on the windswept moors of Bodmin, are a testament to Cornwall's rich history and culture. With their mysterious origins and striking landscape, the Hurlers Stone Circles are a fascinating and evocative place to visit.
  • Cheesewring - This unusual rock formation, perched on the edge of Bodmin Moor, is a testament to the forces of nature and the power of time. With its curious shape and stunning views, the Cheesewring is a unique and memorable destination for anyone visiting Cornwall.


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Where To Stay In Tintagel

Tintagel is a small village in Cornwall, but it has a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some suggestions on where to stay in Tintagel:


  • The Camelot Castle Hotel: This hotel is located on a hilltop overlooking Tintagel Castle and the sea, and is famous for its Victorian Gothic architecture. The rooms are individually decorated and many offer stunning sea views. The hotel also has a restaurant and bar.
  • The Port William Inn: This inn is located in the nearby village of Trebarwith Strand, just a short drive from Tintagel. The rooms are modern and comfortable, and many offer sea views. The inn also has a restaurant and bar.
  • The Wootons Inn: Located in the heart of Tintagel village, within walking distance of the castle. The rooms are comfortable and the hotel has a restaurant and bar.
  • The Old Bakery: Bed and breakfast located in a beautiful historic building right in the heart of the village. The rooms are super cosy and the owners are welcoming.
  • Tregatta Terrace: Self-catering holiday cottage located in the village. Accommodating up to six guests with a kitchen, living room and garden.


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Campsites Near Tintagel

If you're heading to Tintagel and looking to stay in the area we've compiled a list of local campsites in Tintagel and the surrounding areas. We've added website links and Google Maps locations for you.


  • Trewethett Farm Caravan and Motorhome Club Site: Located just over a mile from Tintagel, this campsite offers spacious pitches for caravans and motorhomes. Facilities include showers, toilets, laundry facilities, and a play area for children. (Map)
  • The Headland Caravan & Camping: The Headland Caravan & Camping is a popular family-friendly camping site in Tintagel, Cornwall, offering a range of accommodation options and facilities for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. (Map)
  • Bossiney Bay Holiday Park: This holiday park is located about 1.5 miles from Tintagel and offers pitches for caravans and motorhomes, as well as static caravan rentals. Facilities include an indoor swimming pool, restaurant, and bar. (Map)


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Parking Overnight In Tintagel

Can you park your motorhome or camper van overnight at Tintagel? Yes you can your motorhome or camper van overnight. Here are some of the spots that allow you to do this:


  • King Arthur's Car Park: This car park in Tintagel allows motorhomes and camper vans to park day and night. It's £4 during the day and £5 for the night (Map)
  • Mayfair Car Park: Large grass area used for camper vans and motorhomes. £8 for 24 hours (Map)
  • Atlantic Road Parking Field: This is a field near the end of Tintagel Village. Stunning sea views. £3 all day & £5 per night. (Map)
  • Bossiney Cove Car Park: The field is on a slight slope in places, we did find a flat spot. Stunning views, public toilets and water are available before entering the field. £5 per night. (Map)


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Amenities In Tintagel

Whether you're heading to Tintagel for a day trip, overnight stay or holiday. The village offers a range of amenities for you.


  1. Accommodation: Tintagel's got a lot of accommodation options, including hotels, B&Bs, holiday cottages and campsites.
  2. Restaurants and cafes: There are several places to eat and drink. From restaurants to cafes. You can even grab a freshly cooked Cornish pasty.
  3. Shops and supermarkets: Tintagel has a selection of shops and a Spa convenience store where visitors can buy groceries, souvenirs, alcohol and other holiday essentials.
  4. Tourist information: The Tintagel Visitor Centre has information on local attractions, events and activities.
  5. Public transport: Good public transport links, including buses and taxis.
  6. Medical facilities: Doctor's surgery and pharmacy in Tintagel, as well as a minor injuries unit at the nearby hospital in Bude.


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Pubs In Tintagel

Tintagel has both historic and modern pubs offering visitors warm hospitality, delicious food and drinks, and the charming ambience of a traditional Cornish pub.


  1. King Arthur's Arms: Traditional pub, located in the heart of Tintagel. Named after the legendary King Arthur. The pub offers a range of beers, ales, and spirits, as well as a menu of hearty pub food. (Map)
  2. The Cornishman Inn: Cosy pub is located just outside Tintagel in the neighbouring village of Tregatta. A welcoming atmosphere serves real ales and ciders, as well as locally sourced pub food. (Map)
  3. Ye Olde Malthouse Inn 16th-century pub that oozes historic charm with its exposed beams and stone walls. You can warm up by the log fire while sipping on a pint of local ale and tucking into some traditional pub grub made from local ingredients. (Map)
  4. The Wootons Inn: Sip on a refreshing pint of beer, wine or spirits whilst indulging in some contemporary British cuisine that's made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Views of Tintagel Castle and the surrounding countryside whilst sitting outside. (Maps)


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