Cornwall

Tintagel walk

Enjoy memorable views of Tintagel Castle and the beach and surrounding coastline from Barras Nose headland on this invigorating clifftop walk, around what was the first English coastal acquisition by the National Trust in 1897.

Near to

Tintagel Old Post Office

Start point

Tintagel Fore Street, grid ref: SX054886

Total stages: 5
Total stages: 5
Start point
Tintagel Fore Street, grid ref: SX054886
Stage 1
At the end of Fore Street take the private road signed to Tintagel Castle.
Prehistoric Tintagel
The headland of Barras Nose forms a shovel-shaped promontory that's divided from the mainland by a rocky scarp that runs almost continuously across the neck. This scarp is up to 13ft (4m) high in places. Only to the north-east is access to the headland possible without climbing over a rock face. Given the similarity between the natural features and the layout of a typical prehistoric cliff castle, it's possible this headland may have been used in prehistoric times. The discovery of flint tools suggests human activity that dates back to the Mesolithic period (10,000 to 4,000 BC).
Stage 2
Turn right at the coast, cross the stream and follow the coast path going past the café building.
Tintagel Castle
Looking west, the dramatic ruins of Tintagel Castle (English Heritage) dominate the 300ft (90m) high cliffs. Started by Reginald, Earl of Cornwall (son of Henry I) about 1,140 years ago, the castle was greatly extended by Richard, Earl of Cornwall, and brother of Henry III. It fell into ruin in the time of the Black Prince. It has mistakenly been associated with the legends of King Arthur, Merlin the wizard and the Knights of his Round Table. The many popular poems of Lord Tennyson defined the romance of the place: 'black cliffs and caves and storm and wind'.
Stage 3
Continue on to Barras Nose headland.
Local history
The North Cornwall Railway came to Camelford in 1893, attracting large numbers of visitors fascinated by Arthurian legends. A hotel was built, advertising itself as being on the spot where Tennyson received his inspiration for 'Idylls of the King'. Locals opposed further developments and, in 1896, £505 was raised to buy 15 acres of the clifftop. It became the National Trust's first coastal property in England. A verse by Thomas Hardy is inscribed on a stone at the entrance to the property: 'Hard by was great Tintagel's table round and there of old the flower of Arthur's knights made fair beginning of a nobler time'.
Stage 4
After enjoying the views, head inland by taking the path bearing right up the hill. This path takes you close to the Camelot Hotel.
Stage 5
At the hotel, exit the car park and follow the road back around to the start. You can call in to the hotel for refreshments and to see the unique interior décor and artwork.
End point
Tintagel Fore Street, grid ref: SX054886
Trail map
Tintagel walk map | © Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey
You made it
Share your experience

Stony woodland path running through steep-sided valley beside rushing river

Trail

Rocky Valley walk

Follow this gentle trail down through rocky bluffs to Bossiney Bay, close to Boscastle, Cornwall.

Fore Street, Tintagel, Cornwall, PL34 0DB

01840770024

tintageloldpo@nationaltrust.org.uk

We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.

Visit website

Walking

Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.

Article

Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner

Learn about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor. Find out how they help us care for precious places and the exclusive discount available for National Trust supporters.

Two female visitors standing on the rocks at Giant's Causeway, County Antrim

Article

Staying safe at National Trust places

The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.