Pendennis Castle
To the unobservant explorer, Pendennis Castle could be easy to miss completely on a visit to Falmouth. Swept up by the charm of the high-street, beauty of the beaches, and the amazing walking around the coastal path, if you forget to look up to the headland, the circular Tudor fortress could pass you by.
However, we absolutely recommend that you dip your toe into a spot of history and make the climb (or drive) up the hill to see what Pendennis has to offer. Managed by English Heritage, the site is exceptionally well run and you could spend a whole day there and still have things to learn and see on a return visit. Here’s our guide to visiting…
The Tudor Keep
On entering through the impressive port cullis, you’ll probably find yourself drawn towards the point of the headland and the intriguing circular fortress which stands above all of Falmouth, looking out with 360 degree views over land and sea.
It’s a distinctive circular artillery fort, built during the 1540s when the Fal Estuary was essential for protecting England. Since then it has seen a siege in the English Civil War, was a supply base during the Napoleonic Wars, and was the headquarters of the Falmouth defences during the First and Second World Wars.
You can go inside the circular castle building and climb up to look out over the high walls across the bay, which we thoroughly recommend. It’s great for kids, adults of all ages and dog-friendly too. However, there are some elements which would be more challenging for those with reduced mobility.
The Museum (Artillery Barracks)
In what used to be the Royal Artillery Barracks from the early 1900’s, there is currently an interactive exhibition which helps you explore and learn more about the history of the castle and its links with Falmouth and the trade routes of the British Empire. “A key feature is a hands on scale model of the castle: with the aid of special effects, children can step into the shoes of a soldier on kit parade.”
Upstairs is an exhibition called ‘Fortress Falmouth’ and this focuses on the lives and stories of the soldiers who trained and worked at the castle. You can see letters and memorabilia which give an emotional and detailed insight into the life of a soldier, including a collection of John Glasson Thomas’s extensive letters to Gertie Brooks in the Great War.
The Grounds and The Views
With extensive and stunning views from the top of the headland, we definitely recommend doing your visit to Pendennis on a sunny, clear day if you can. Look across to St Mawes, up the Carrick Roads, and across towards the mouth of the Helford River. The castle is a perfect vantage point for wildlife, including birds and marine life (if you’re really lucky, this is a great place to see dolphins!)
There is plenty of outdoor space for children to play, or for adults to explore the space unhurried. Around the site are lots of cannons looking out to see, and you can join a volunteer-led talk to discover how they work. (Ask for timings when you arrive on the day.)
Don’t miss the Half Moon Battery which is through a tunnel taking you past the castle moat to a better vantage point! On your way out, have a stroll through the moat itself too, there are paths leading all the way around.
The Cafe
In the larger barracks building, you’ll find ‘Number 6 Café’ with coffee, tea, cakes and meals freshly prepared on site, similar to those at other English Heritage sites. Dogs are only allowed in the outside seating area, but this is a wonderful place to sit and can be a real south-facing suntrap!
If you prefer a take-away, there is a great little coffee box just down the drive from the castle, on the side of the headland that overlooks the beaches, not the harbour. It’s called Haven Coffee Box and they sell artisan coffee and amazing cakes with a few savory light bites as well. Check their Instagram for opening times.
If you have young children, there is also a popular soft play area for under 5’s next to the cafe!
During the Winter, the Castle is open during weekends and school holidays, but do check the website to confirm before you set off.
We hope you enjoy your day at the castle, and if we can be of any further assistance in planning your holiday cottage stay with us, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Photography Credit and Thanks to English Heritage
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