Guides | Tintagel
Tintagel Tourist Information
Tintagel Guide and History
Situated on the North Atlantic coast, Tintagel is one of Cornwall’s most atmospheric villages, best known for its dramatic scenery and its long association with the legend of King Arthur.
Tintagel Castle stands on a rugged headland above the sea, with views along the coast and down towards Merlin’s Cave. The site has inspired stories for centuries and remains one of the most distinctive places to visit in North Cornwall.
The Arthurian legend is still part of the character of the village, but Tintagel has more to offer than myth alone. The Old Post Office, now owned by the National Trust, is a striking 14th century building in the heart of the village, and the surrounding area has plenty of walks, viewpoints, cafés, galleries and gift shops.
For visitors exploring this part of Cornwall, Tintagel works well as part of a wider North Coast trip, with Boscastle, Port Isaac, Delabole and Trebarwith Strand all within easy reach.
Tintagel Events
There are currently no events listed for this area. If you are planning an event, please let us know and we will add it.
Tintagel Accommodation
Tintagel and the surrounding area offer a good choice of places to stay, from guest houses and small hotels to holiday cottages, campsites and coastal accommodation. Bosayne Guest House enjoys lovely views and is well placed for exploring the village and nearby coast.
Entertainment and Eating Out Guide
Tintagel has a good selection of cafés, restaurants, pubs and tearooms, along with plenty of places to enjoy a Cornish pasty or cream tea after visiting the castle or walking along the coast.
If you would like to see more of Cornwall without planning every detail yourself, Cornwall Discovery Tours offer private guided tours with local knowledge, including historic sites, coastal villages and popular filming locations from Doc Martin and Poldark.
Shopping Guide
Shopping in Tintagel is very much shaped by the village’s visitors, with gift shops, galleries, local produce, books, souvenirs and places to pick up something connected with the area’s legends and coastal setting.
Tintagel Beach and Surf Guide
Tintagel itself is set high above the sea rather than beside a traditional sandy beach, but Merlin’s Cave is well worth the walk down from the castle area when conditions are suitable. Nearby Trebarwith Strand is one of the best-known beaches close to Tintagel, with dramatic cliffs, rock pools and Atlantic views.
Travel Information
Buses and taxis are available in the area, but there are no rail links directly to Tintagel. Visitors arriving by train usually continue by bus, taxi or car from nearby towns.
Tintagel Business
Not far from Tintagel is Delabole, a village with a long industrial history. Its famous slate quarry has supplied Delabole slate for generations and remains one of the area’s best-known working landmarks.
