Tintagel Castle's New Footbridge

For the first time in more than 500 years, the two separated halves of Tintagel Castle have been reunited by a new footbridge. Visitors can now walk in the footsteps of the medieval inhabitants of the Cornish castle – inextricably linked with the legend of King Arthur – and enjoy spectacular coastal views not seen since the Middle Ages. 

The bridge spans a 190-foot gorge and features a gasp-inducing gap in the middle. This follows the line of the original route – a narrow strip of land, long lost to erosion – between the 13th century gatehouse on the mainland and the courtyard on the jagged headland, or island jutting into the sea.

So significant was this historic crossing that it gave rise to the place’s name, the Cornish Din Tagell meaning 'the Fortress of the Narrow Entrance'. Find out more about the landmark project here.

Researching Tintagel Castle

In partnership with Cornwall Archaeological Unit, we are undertaking a five year research project to learn more about life at Tintagel Castle over 1,000 years ago. Over the summers of 2016 and 2017, archaeologists were on site investigating a cluster of early medieval buildings, and have revealed remarkable evidence of a wealthy community living on the cliff top.

As well as uncovering the footprints of buildings dating back to the 5th to 6th centuries, the archaeologists found evidence of fine dining and trade with the Mediterranean world. Now we are working with academics around the country to learn more about the items uncovered, and help piece together a picture of the lives of people at the Tintagel Castle during this period.

Where History Meets Legend

Tintagel Castle has inspired imaginations for hundreds of years and is today one of Cornwall's most iconic and popular visitor attractions. Our exhibition in the Visitor Centre features some of the finds from Tintagel, as well as taking a fresh look at the centuries old story. Designed to reflect the idea of a storybook containing many different tales, the exhibition explores how legend and reality have uniquely combined to shape Tintagel through the ages.

Outdoor Interpretation

Our outdoor interpretation explores the history of the Cornish castle and the role legends have played in shaping the site that visitors see today. From the exhibition and interpretation, visitors can get a complete overview of Tintagel's history - from the artefacts discovered there to the legends associated with it. A series of panels reveal 1500 years of Tintagel's past - from royal stronghold, to thriving trading port, to a castle of romantic legend.

A stone compass points to places connected with the legend of King Arthur and engraved stepping stones around the island garden tell the tragic love story of Tristan and Iseult, a medieval tale set at Tintagel. On the beach, close to Merlin's Cave, a discreet carved face represents Merlin, who has been associated with the site since the 12th century and immortalised by the poetry of Alfred, Lord Tennyson. Created by artist Rubin Eynon, Gallos (meaning power in Cornish), is an 8ft bronze sculpture inspired by the legend of King Arthur and by the historic kings and royal figures associated with Tintagel.

The Beach Cafe

Originally used as the offices for Tintagel's silver and lead mines, the Beach Cafe has been completely refurbished to better reflect the area's industrial past in its decor, using slate floors, copper lights and sun bleached wooden panels. With a focus on fresh, seasonal and local food, the cafe's menu gives a real taste of Cornwall. The cafe is also now fully accessible for all visitors and is the perfect place to warm up after a blustery walk around the site.