July 31, 2023 - Tintagel, Cornwall, England

 Our big adventure today was visiting Tintagel Castle.  The castle has a long association with legends related to King Arthur. This was first recorded in the 12th century when Geoffrey of Monmouth described Tintagel as the place of Arthur's conception in his mythological account of British history, Historia Regum Britanniae.  

It surprised us that there is really no castle.  There are remains and remnants, but no real castle left, just ruins.

Tintagel Castle has been a tourist destination since the mid-19th century. Owned by William, Prince of Wales as part of the landholdings of the Duchy of Cornwall, the site is managed by English Heritage.

The weather was perfect for England, low 60s and rain.  We were able to walk from our room, down a steep hill, up steep steps, down more steps and crossing wet, sandy rocks and then walking back uphill to our room.  We were wet and chilled by the time we got back.  Weirdly, we were chilled, and sweating at the same time.

We walked across the pedestrian castle bridge to get from the mainland to the castle.  

Not a warm, dry or happy camper walking to the castle

Approaching the castle bridge

Sooz (on the right facing away) casually crossing the bridge

This is the "castle".  Not much to see other than ruins with a fantastic view

Bundled up at the castle

Putting on a good face for the steep, wet, rock steps

The Queen of Tintagel reviewing her subjects on the beach

One big English bird (pidgeon)

Where's my sticky toffee pudding?

Earned dessert - sticky toffee pudding