How to visit Tintagel Castle WITHOUT paying the entrance fee
Tintagel Castle is one of the most popular attractions in Cornwall – but exploring this historical site is not cheap!
It’s one of the most expensive English Heritage attractions, with adult entry costs starting at £16.
But, there are ways you can see Tintagel Castle and the surroundings for much cheaper! Let’s dig into them.
Joining heritage memberships
Visiting Tintagel Castle is expensive, with the entrance fee now at £16 per adult.
However, purchasing a heritage membership can significantly reduce costs – in fact, you can even save £1 off Tintagel Castle entry buy buying one!
Here’s how…
English Heritage Membership
English Heritage membership costs £72 per year for individuals (discounts are available for senior, student and joint memberships).
This membership grants free entry to over 400 historic sites across England, including Tintagel Castle.
Additionally, members receive half-price entry to sites in Scotland and Wales during the first year, with free access after 12 months.
If you enjoy exploring historic locations, this option quickly pays for itself and it’s particularly valuable if you’re planning a broader trip across the UK.
Take a look at my full English Heritage review here.
Or, click here to go through to English Heritage’s website to see their membership options.
Cornwall Heritage Trust Membership
But, even if you’re not travelling elsewhere – or even to any other locations in Cornwall – I’d still recommend investing in a Cornwall Heritage Trust Membership.
Why? Because it’s cheaper than one entry to Tintagel Castle!
Tintagel Castle standard adult entry is £16, while a year’s access to the castle with the Cornwall Heritage Trust is £15.
With this membership, you’ll get free entry to Tintagel Castle, Pendennis Castle, Launceston Castle, Restormel Castle, St Mawes Castle and Chysauster Ancient Village.
Visitors also get 50% off entry to PK Porthcurno, Geevor Tin Mine, King Edward Mine, Wheal Martyn China Clay Museum and the Vale of Avalon/Arthurian Centre, Slaughterbridge.
It’s easy to see how quickly this membership pays for itself – even if you’re only visiting Tintagel – but you also get so many other perks!
Plus, the trust is a fantastic organisation that protects many of Cornwall’s other sites, many that are free to visit and need funding. Read more about them here.
Or, click here for Cornwall Heritage Trust membership.
Free ways to enjoy Tintagel Castle’s beauty
Exploring Tintagel Castle doesn’t always require paying the full entrance fee – or anything at all.
There are several ways to experience its stunning scenery and historical charm for free or at a lower cost.
Walk the South West Coast Path
The South West Coast Path is well known for its breathtaking views of Tintagel Castle and the rugged Cornish coastline.
On the walk from Tintagel to Port Isaac, you can soak in the dramatic scenery and see the castle island without entering the grounds.
Just be aware that Tintagel Castle is mostly ruins, so you won’t be able to see all that much without a ticket.
See my full guide to the South West Coast Path.
Visit the Beach and Merlin’s Cave
You can access Tintagel Beach and Merlin’s Cave without purchasing a castle ticket. Follow the path down to the beach, where you’ll find the entrance to Merlin’s Cave.
This tidal cave is steeped in legend and is a fascinating spot to explore during low tide.
The beach itself boasts views of Tintagel Castle high on the cliffs above.
Stop by the Café, Gift Shop, and Exhibition
The café and gift shop, located near to Merlin’s Beach, are open to the public without requiring an entrance ticket.
Inside, you’ll also find a small exhibition that delves into Tintagel’s history, offering insights into the site’s mythological and historical importance.
While you can’t enter the main castle grounds from here, you can get a view if you crane your neck slightly!
It is quite a walk to Merlin’s Beach from the entrance, but jeeps connect the entrance to the bottom of the hill and cost £2. You don’t need a Tintagel entrance ticket.
Alternative attraction: King Arthur’s Hall
A cheaper alternative to learn about King Arthur and his legendary connection to Tintagel is King Arthur’s Hall!
King Arthur’s Hall is located in Tintagel village and is an affordable way to explore Arthurian legends.
Admission costs £8 for adults and £5 for children, and it is open yearly from 1st March to 31st October.
Inside, stained glass windows illustrate key moments from King Arthur’s mythos, while exhibits delve into his legendary tales.
So, if you want to save some money on your trip to Cornwall, bookmark this page for future reference!
