Tintagel walk
Barras Nose is a headland at Tintagel, in the lee of the towering Tintagel Island and Castle ruins linked to the legends of King Arthur.
Tintagel was the first English coastal acquisition by us in 1897. There are great views of the Castle, beach and surrounding coastline from the headland. Grade of walk: Trainer (all rounder); type of walk: 'Waterside Walks'. 'Beautiful Views'.
Map
Start:
Tintagel Forestreet, grid ref: SX054886
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).
2
Turn right at the coast, cross the stream and follow the coast path going past the café building.
King Arthur's legend
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 ruins 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, very popular poems of Lord Tennyson defined the romance of the place: 'black cliffs and caves and storm and wind'.
3
Continue on to Barras Nose headland.
Railway and tourism
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 cliff top. It became our 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'.
4
After enjoying the views, head inland by taking the path bearing right up the hill. This is the path which takes you closest to the Camelot Hotel mentioned above.
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 also to see the stunning and unusual interior décor and artwork.
Join us
We hope that you really enjoyed this one-mile walk. We look after some of the most spectacular areas of countryside for the enjoyment of all. We need your support to help us continue our work to cherish the countryside and provide access to our beautiful and refreshing landscapes. To find out more about how you too can help our work as a volunteer, member or donor please visit our homepage.
End:
Tintagel Forestreet, grid ref: SX054886
