The Magic of Tintagel: Legends of Arthur and Merlin

Tintagel is a small village on the north coast of Cornwall that has been linked to the legends of King Arthur for centuries. The castle ruins on a cliff above the ocean, Merlin's Cave and the stone houses with shops attract thousands of travellers interested in British history and myth.

The legends of Arthur and Merlin

As early as the 12th century, Geoffrey of Monmouth wrote that King Arthur was conceived and born at Tintagel. According to legend, the wizard Merlin helped King Uther Pendragon enter the castle by changing his appearance, and later raised Arthur.

Merlin himself, the stories say, was born not in Cornwall but in Wales. His mother is described as a mortal woman and his father as a spirit, from whom Merlin received his gift of prophecy and magic. At Tintagel the wizard is remembered by the cave beneath the castle rock known as Merlin's Cave.

What to see in Tintagel

Tintagel Castle

The ruins of the 13th-century castle stand on a rocky headland above the Atlantic. A footbridge opened in 2019 leads to the island part, and the top offers a panorama of the coast. Archaeologists have also found traces of a large 5th-7th century settlement here, the era to which the Arthurian legends belong.

The Gallos sculpture

A bronze figure of a warrior with a sword on the castle grounds, installed in 2016. It is often called the statue of King Arthur and is one of the most popular photo spots.

Merlin's Cave

A sea cave beneath the castle that can be reached at low tide. It runs right through the rock, and the sound of the waves inside creates a special atmosphere.

King Arthur's Great Halls

A building in the village centre with halls dedicated to the Knights of the Round Table and stained glass windows based on the legends.

The Old Post Office

A 14th-century stone house with a wavy roof, one of the oldest in Cornwall. Today it is a museum.

Beaches

Below the castle is the small cove of Tintagel Haven, and a few kilometres from the village is the sandy beach of Trebarwith Strand, popular with surfers.

Tintagel's main street with old houses, souvenir shops, cafes and pubs is perfect for a leisurely stroll after visiting the castle.

How to get to Tintagel

The nearest railway station, Bodmin Parkway, is about 30 km from the village, and from there you continue to Tintagel by bus or taxi. By car the journey from London takes about 5 hours.

Tintagel combines well with a trip around South West England, and a Fly&Joy manager will help you plan the route.

Frequently asked questions

Was King Arthur really born at Tintagel?

That is what the legend recorded in the 12th century says. There is no historical proof that Arthur existed, but archaeologists have confirmed there was an important settlement here in the early Middle Ages.