If your family loves history, legends, and a touch of adventure, a visit to Tintagel Castle in Cornwall is a must. Perched on a rugged clifftop overlooking the Atlantic, this historic site is steeped in mystery and magic, with ties to the legendary King Arthur.
We recently explored Tintagel Castle with the kids, and it turned out to be a day full of wonder, breathtaking views, and plenty of opportunities for little imaginations to run wild.
Arriving at Tintagel
We started the day early, knowing Tintagel Castle is a popular destination. Parking in the village of Tintagel was straightforward, and from there, it’s a short walk to the castle entrance.
As we approached, the kids were immediately captivated by the dramatic setting. The sight of the ancient ruins perched high above the sea made them gasp—and the talk of “hidden treasure” and “wizard caves” began.
Crossing the Footbridge
One of the highlights of the visit was crossing the Tintagel Castle footbridge, which links the mainland to the island where most of the ruins are located. The bridge itself is a marvel, offering stunning views of the cliffs and crashing waves below.
The kids were fascinated by the idea of walking where knights and kings might have crossed centuries ago. They clung tightly to the railings, equal parts thrilled and nervous, but the sense of adventure made it all worthwhile.
Exploring the Ruins
Once across, we began exploring the castle ruins. Tintagel is unlike any other castle we’ve visited—it’s less about towering walls and more about the atmosphere and history of the place. The kids loved scrambling over the rocks, peering through old windows, and imagining what life might have been like for those who lived there.
We took our time wandering through the remains of the Great Hall and the chapel, while the kids pretended to be knights guarding their kingdom. The information boards dotted around the site were fascinating, offering insights into the castle’s history and its connection to the legend of King Arthur.
Merlin’s Cave and the Beach
No trip to Tintagel Castle is complete without a visit to Merlin’s Cave, located on the beach below the castle. At low tide, you can explore the cave, which is said to be where the legendary wizard lived.
The kids were thrilled to climb over the rocks and peek into the dark, mysterious space. They declared it “definitely magical” and spent ages searching for clues of Merlin’s existence (spoiler: no wizard, but lots of seaweed).
The beach itself is a great spot to relax and enjoy the scenery. The kids built pebble towers and collected shells, while we sat back and listened to the waves.
A Picnic with a View
We packed our own picnic, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than at Tintagel Castle. The clifftop views are spectacular, and there are plenty of spots to sit and soak in the scenery.
The kids devoured their sandwiches while pointing out birds soaring over the cliffs. We even spotted a seal bobbing in the water below, which sent them into a frenzy of excitement.
The Statue of King Arthur
One of the newer additions to Tintagel Castle is the dramatic statue of King Arthur, standing proudly on the clifftop. The kids were mesmerized by its size and detail, and it sparked plenty of questions about the legendary king and his knights.
We spent a good 15 minutes taking photos, with the kids posing as knights beside the statue and making up stories about Excalibur and Camelot.
Wrapping Up the Day
As the day came to an end, we made our way back across the footbridge and into the village of Tintagel. Before heading home, we popped into a local cafe for a well-deserved cream tea (the perfect way to round off a Cornish adventure).
The kids left clutching small souvenirs from the gift shop—mini swords and a tiny dragon figurine—already asking when we could come back.
Tips for Visiting Tintagel Castle with Kids
- Arrive Early: Tintagel is a popular spot, especially in summer, so getting there early means fewer crowds.
- Check the Tide Times: If you want to visit Merlin’s Cave, plan your visit for low tide.
- Wear Sturdy Shoes: The terrain is uneven, and there are plenty of steps to climb. Comfortable footwear is a must.
- Pack Layers: The weather can change quickly on the cliffs, so bring layers and waterproofs just in case.
- Bring Snacks and Drinks: There’s a cafe nearby, but a packed picnic is always a good idea for clifftop adventures.
Why Tintagel Castle Is Perfect for Families
Tintagel Castle offers the perfect mix of history, legend, and adventure. The kids loved exploring the ruins, imagining themselves as part of King Arthur’s court, and searching for magical clues in Merlin’s Cave.
For me, the breathtaking views and the sense of stepping into a place rich with stories made it unforgettable. It’s the kind of day out that sparks curiosity and leaves everyone feeling inspired—and a little windswept.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly adventure that combines history, nature, and a touch of magic, Tintagel Castle is a must-visit. Just don’t be surprised if the kids start calling each other knights and wizards for the rest of the week!