Castles & Monuments

Courtesy of English Heritage

ST CATHERINE’S CASTLE - (ENGLISH HERITAGE)

Website: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/st-catherines-castle

Distance: 3.6miles

Catherine's Castle is one of a pair of small artillery forts built by Henry VIII in the 1530s to defend Fowey Harbour. It was modified in the 19th century during the Crimean War and again during the Second World War, when it became home to an anti-aircraft gun and an ammunition store.

St Catherine’s Castle takes its name from the rocky headland on which it stands. Its position, high above the entrance to the Fowey estuary, is spectacular: from the terrace there are superb views across the attractive town and harbour.

The castle, only accessible on foot, is a 3/4 mile walk from the car park via Ready Money Beach. The first section is a gentle slope down to the beach. From here the walk includes a challenging, steep climb through woodland which can become muddy in wet weather.

Courtesy of English Heritage

RESTORMEL CASTLE - (ENGLISH HERITAGE)

Website: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/restormel-castle

Distance: 6.1miles

Standing in ruins amid beautiful countryside, Restormel is one of the most remarkable castles in Britain. The present circular structure, built in the late 13th century, was a luxurious retreat for its medieval owners and was twice visited by Edward, the Black Prince. The castle commands fantastic views across the valley of the river Fowey and is a favourite picnic spot – with beautiful spring flowers, and plants all year round.

Today the remains of the castle rooms reveal clues to its past grandeur. Large fireplaces, high windows, and the Great Hall, used for gatherings, give a sense of the once oplulent surroundings. Climb up the stone staircase from the courtyard and you will be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Dog friendly

Courtesy of English Heritage

ST MAWES CASTLE - (ENGLISH HERITAGE)

Website: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/st-mawes-castle

Distance: 25miles

Spend the day exploring St Mawes Castle, one of the best-preserved of Henry VIII's coastal artillery fortresses, and the most elaborately decorated. Part of a chain of forts built between 1539 and 1545 to counter an invasion threat from Catholic France and Spain, St Mawes would have guarded the important anchorage of Carrick Roads alongside Pendennis Castle.

Wander around its charming clover-leaf shape which was originally surrounded by octagonal defences and notice the embellishment of Latin inscriptions in praise of King Henry VIII and his son Edward VI. Dog friendly.

Courtesy of English Heritage

TINTAGEL CASTLE - (ENGLISH HERITAGE)

Website: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/tintagel-castle

Distance: 28miles

The name of Tintagel immediately conjures images of King Arthur and the legends associated with him. The ruins of Tintagel Castle brood over the coast, but no-one can say for sure whether this was really the place where Uther Pendragon seduced the Queen of Cornwall.

Tintagel Castle is managed by English Heritage, and it's open to visitors. You'll need a head for heights and a sturdy pair of shoes, but the dramatic views and sense of history make every step worth the effort.

You will find pay and display car parks in Tintagel Village, 600 metres away from the site. Please allow plenty of time to park and walk to Tintagel Castle. Dog friendly