South West

Visit - South West

Explore the iconic Stonehenge, the myths and legends at Tintagel Castle, or Pendennis Castle - a defensive fort built by King Henry VIII.

Stonehenge, Wiltshire

Uncover the incredible story of one of the world’s most mysterious historic places

Tintagel Castle, Cornwall

Where history meets legend

Pendennis Castle, Falmouth

A mighty fortress

A group of adults and children walk through the stone ruins at Old Sarum on a cloudy day.

The lost city of Old Sarum

Marvel at Old Sarum, a windswept hill where ancient fortifications, a medieval castle and cathedral ruins crown the skyline.

 

Climb, explore, and let your children's imaginations run wild as you wander the ramparts of a once-bustling castle.

 

While you’re there, enjoy a picnic with views over Wiltshire.

Visit Old Sarum

Explore a mighty fortress in Devon

Step back in time at Dartmouth Castle, perched dramatically at the mouth of the River Dart.

 

Explore its cannon-filled fortifications, winding passageways and towers while imagining life as a medieval defender.

Visit Dartmouth Castle

Planning a weekend break?

Did you know Wiltshire has got more prehistoric monuments than any county in England?

 

Use this guide to help you discover places of ancient mystery and castles in and around the county.

Plan your weekend away in Wiltshire
A view of the circular stone Portland Castle next to the sea on a bright sunny day.

Reopening soon...

Spring is nearly here, and adventure awaits!

 

From 28 March 2026, St Mawes Castle in Cornwall and Portland Castle in Dorset reopen.

 

Climb the towers, explore the ramparts and enjoy sparkling coastal views.

Upcoming Events

An image of a child in a waterproof coat jumping over a puddle at Kenilowrth Castle.

Stop hibernating. Start exploring.

Days out are back and we’ve got lots of ideas to get you out and about in 2026.

Check out our brand-new Adventurer’s Checklist: it’s the best way to get your family and friends back out exploring English Heritage sites together.

Start exploring

Places to Stay in Cornwall

  • Fort House, St Mawes Castle, Cornwall

    This spacious holiday cottage sits in a private garden, with uninterrupted views of the coast. A short walk leads you into the picturesque fishing village of St Mawes.

  • The Custodian's House, Pendennis Castle

    Embark on a holiday for the history books, by staying in the grounds of Pendennis Castle. Overlooking Falmouth, you’ll have exclusive access to the castle grounds out of hours.

  • Callie's Cottage, Pendennis Castle

    A two bedroomed cottage in the heart of Pendennis Castle. You can stroll into Falmouth in 20 minutes, or spend the evening enjoying the sweeping sea views.

Two women, a dog and two children walk across a bridge with a rocky island and sea behind

Join English Heritage

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Your Places Appeal

Over 300 of our treasured sites are free to enter. They're open to everybody, no matter their means. But free to enter doesn't mean free to maintain. It costs over £4.2 million a year to care for these special places - and that's why we need your help. 

Please donate to our appeal today to help protect them for tomorrow.

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