Pendennis Castle
A view of Pendennis Castle on a sunny day.

Pendennis: Keep Connections

High above the waters of the Fal Estuary, Pendennis Castle has stood watch over Cornwall's coast for almost 500 years.

Since it was built during the reign of Henry VIII it has witnessed war, siege and significant change as generations of soldiers, local people and visitors have passed through its doors.

Today, the iconic Tudor keep is beginning to show the effects of time, weather and centuries of use. Thanks to initial support from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, a project is underway to conserve this remarkable building and create new ways to connect with its stories.

A high angle view of Pendennis Castle and keep on a clear day with the sea in the background.

Why is the project needed?

Pendennis Keep is one of Cornwall's most significant historic structures and essential conservation work is needed to protect it for future generations.

Alongside repairs to the fabric of the building, the project will also reveal the stories of the keep and its people, from its Tudor beginnings to Cornwall's more recent history.

Through research, consultation and collaboration, we'll work with local communities, volunteers and partners to uncover fresh perspectives and bring more voices into the story of Pendennis.

Three children in school uniform run along the path leading to Pendennis Castle on a sunny day.

What's next?

Pendennis: Keep Connections has received a development grant of £466,565 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. During the development phase the team will carry out research, surveys and consultation, testing ideas and working with communities to help shape the project.

You’ll find updates on our progress and discoveries on this page, as well as opportunities to get involved as plans develop.

A close-up view of the keep at Pendennis Castle on a sunny day with the National Lottery Heritage Fund logo overlayed in the bottom left corner in English and Cornish.

Thank you

This project is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Thanks to National Lottery players, plans are in place to protect this historic landmark and find innovative ways to share its past.

For more information, please visit The National Lottery Heritage Fund website and follow @HeritageFundUK on social media.