Pendennis Castle

The castle and grounds at Pendennis Castle are open. Measures are still in place to keep everyone safe, and you need to book your visit in advance. Find out more below.

Summer Events at Pendennis Castle

What's On
What's On
What's On
Direction Map

See full prices and opening times
Address
Falmouth, Cornwall, TR11 4LP

Explore Pendennis Castle, Falmouth - a mighty fortress built by Henry VIII to defend the country against invasion.

Set on a headland with breathtaking views out to sea, this picturesque castle has defended Cornwall since Tudor times and played a vital role during the two World Wars.

Today, you can experience the sights and sounds of battle and climb to the top of the keep to scan the horizon for enemies, as you're transported back to wartime Cornwall.

Book Your Visit

What you need to know

We've made some changes to help keep you safe, and things might be a little different when you visit. Here's everything you need to know.

  • Do we need to Book?

    Advance booking is now essential. We have introduced limits on visitor numbers to help keep everyone safe, and you won’t be able to visit without your booking confirmation. If you’re a Member, your ticket will be free, but you still need to book in advance. Make sure you've read our ticketing FAQ before you book.

    Book Tickets

    Booking FAQs

  • Keeping you Safe

    We've made a number of changes to help keep you safe. Although things might be a little different when you visit, you’ll still be able to enjoy exploring the places where history really happened. And you’ll still be given a warm and safe welcome by our friendly – if socially distant – staff and volunteers.

    You can visit our reopening page for information on general safety measures we've taken to help keep you safe.

    General Safety Information

  • Do I need to wear a face covering?

    Face coverings must be worn in all indoor areas. We won't be able to provide you with a face covering, so please come prepared so you don't miss out.

Hire Pendennis Castle

In this picturesque coastal Tudor castle, hold your event with against the backdrop of views across a shimmering bay with distant ships passing on the horizon.

Inside the 450-year-old keep, the granite walls and warm wooden flooring provide a charismatic setting while outside the circular chemise is perfect for a drinks reception.

The Edwardian Royal Artillery Barrack have been converted into a smart self-contained hospitality suite with three bright event spaces perfect for all events.

FIND OUT MORE
Pendennis and St Mawes guidebook

Guidebook: Pendennis and St Mawes

Price: £4.50

Buy Now

 Pendennis Timeline

1539Artillery Fort

Henry VIII establishes gun forts on both shores of the Fal estuary, at Pendennis and St Mawes.

Find out more about the history of Pendennis Castle

1578Spanish Threat

Faced with the threat of a Spanish invasion, the fort is fully garrisoned by up to 100 men.

Show More

Gallery for Pendennis Castle

Coastal views from Pendennis
Historic gun at Pendennis Castle
Tudor Keep at Pendennis Castle
The Royal Artillery Barracks at Pendennis Castle
Costumed characters from the war

Membership starts from £51

Membership gives you unlimited access to castles and gardens, historic houses and abbeys, and kids go free ...

Join Now

UNLIMITED ACCESS TO OVER 400 HISTORIC PLACES

Live and breathe the story of England at royal castles, historic gardens, forts & defences, world-famous prehistoric sites and many others.

FREE ENTRY FOR UP TO SIX CHILDREN

Free entry for up to six children accompanied by an adult member (under 18 years and within the family group).

FREE HANDBOOK TO PLAN INSPIRING DAYS OUT, WORTH £10.95

Complimentary full colour handbook worth £10.95. Plus our award winning Members’ Magazine delivered four times a year.

FREE OR REDUCED ENTRY TO OUR EXCITING EVENTS

'step into englands story