Things to do in Tintagel

Tintagel is a small village in North Cornwall, renowned for the beautiful and expansive Tintagel castle. It is a great area to base yourself for access to Padstow, Port Isaac and Boscastle. This posts gives you some great ideas of things to do in Tintagel.

Visit Tintangel Castle

You cannot visit Tintagel and not visit the Castle which dates back to the 5th century AD. It became a place of historical significance when it was the birthplace of King Arthur in the 12th century.

Its position by the rugged Cornish Coast is simply spectacular. The backdrop against the cliffs and the turquoise waters are just the best. Originally the two halves of Tintagel Castle were split by a series of very steep steps but in August 2019 a bridge was built, making it much more accessible.

There is a one way system currently in place due to Covid-19 with plenty of social distancing. The only part to note are the 140 steep stairs at the end of the visit.

tintagel castle
tintagel castle

You have to purchase a ticket in advance via the website with a specific time slot (£14.50). The castle is open 10am to 4pm from Wednesday to Sunday and the time shown on your ticket is the earliest you can arrive. However, you can arrive at any point within an hour of that time and then stay for as long as you like.

tintagel castle
tintagel castle

Just look at the views! There are so many amazing photo opportunities and facts to read along the way.

tintagel castle
tintagel castle

Merlin’s Cave and Ttintahel Coast Walk

If you don’t fancy the castle (or understandably don’t want to pay the entrance fee) you can still walk around the coast and take in the stunning views for free. There is a path from the main village (it is on the right hand side where the ticket entrance for the castle is on the left) which takes you on a circular walk which takes 1-2 hours depending on how far you go.

things to do in tintagel
things to do in tintagel
things to do in tintagel

Access is also available for free to Merlin’s Cave, a 330-foot long cave that sits under the cliffs of Tintagel Castle. It can barely be seen at high side when it fills up with sea water. At around 1pm, the tide goes in and the little cave is revealed! There are stairs to access the small beach and cave. According to the Arthurian legends, Merlin the Wizard is meant to have lived here!

things to do in tintagel

St Nectan’s Glen

Sadly, the afternoon we were due to visit St Nectan’s Glen, it would not stop raining. It was the same the morning after too which was a real shame! St Nectan’s Glen is a woodland area with walkways to three different waterfalls. It is open every day with last entry at 4.30pm and costs £5.95 and looks gorgeous!

Trebarthwith Strand

Trebarthwith Strand is a must visit on your list of things to do in Tintagel and is situated a 45 minute walk from the village. The cliff top walks are beautiful and at the end of the walkway there is a cafe, shop and pub.

Visit Tintagel’s Old Post Office

This is easiest the prettiest Post Office I have seen! It is a 14th century yeonman’s farmhouse with a wavy slate roof which is now owed by The National Trust. It hasn’t been a post office since the Victorian period and is generally open for visitors (not at present due to Covid-19).

things to do in tintagel

Camelot Castle, Tintgael

Situated right on the edge of the coast is Camelot Castle hotel and restaurant. It is a 10 minute walk from the centre of the village past fields of cows.

things to do in tintagel

We stopped by for a hot chcoolate and cake and sat in their grand dining room.

things to do in tintagel
things to do in tintagel

Pubs in Tintagel

There are a number of pubs in Tintagel village for a tipple and / or food including King Arthur’s Arms Inn, Ye Olde Malthouse Inn and The Wootons Inn.

things to do in tintagel
things to do in tintagel

If you are looking for a café for lunch, Charlie’s Deli is a great choice. It has friendly staff and delicious, freshly made sandwiches and rolls.

things to do in tintagel
things to do in tintagel
things to do in tintagel

East London Girl: Things to do in Tintagel

Click Here for how to spend a day in Padstow

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1 Comment

  • Reply
    eastlondongirl
    November 7, 2020 at 18:39

    Great reward for all the walking!

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