St Mawes Castle — Attraction in St. Just-in-Roseland

St Mawes Castle, located near Falmouth in Cornwall, is one of the best-preserved coastal artillery fortresses from the Tudor period. Constructed between 1540 and 1542 during King Henry VIII’s reign, it was designed to defend the Carrick Roads waterway at the mouth of the River Fal against potential invasions from France and the Holy Roman Empire.  

The castle features a distinctive cloverleaf design, comprising a central four-story tower surrounded by three circular bastions. This layout provided extensive platforms for heavy artillery, allowing comprehensive coverage of the surrounding waters. Notably, St Mawes Castle is adorned with elaborate carvings and inscriptions praising Henry VIII, reflecting its historical significance and the era’s architectural style.  

For visitors interested in exploring this historic site, St Mawes Castle is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Booking tickets online in advance can provide a 15% discount on admission prices. It’s important to note that the last admission is 30 minutes before closing time.  

The castle’s address is Castle Drive, St Mawes, Nr Truro, Cornwall, TR2 5DE. For the most current information on opening times and ticket prices, it’s advisable to consult the official English Heritage website.  

There is also a ferry nearby if you’re the other side of the English channel which is very...

St Mawes Castle in Cornwall, England, is a picturesque historical site with both positive and negative aspects.

On the positive side, it boasts breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and the sea, making it a perfect spot for photography and enjoying the scenery. Its rich history dating back to the 16th century is evident in the well-preserved architecture, providing valuable insights into England's maritime past. Additionally, the well-kept castle grounds offer a pleasant environment for leisurely strolls and picnics.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. St Mawes Castle is really small, probably 30 minutes would be enough for your visit and may not be easily accessible for individuals with mobility issues due to its historic design and uneven terrain. Furthermore, visitors should be aware that the castle itself doesn't offer extensive amenities like cafes or restrooms, which could be inconvenient for some.

In summary, St Mawes Castle offers a captivating historical experience with remarkable views, but visitors should plan for potential accessibility and facility...

Covid restrictions meant much of the castle was closed meaning the parts my boys really wanted to explore were off limits. The site itself is lovely and the covid measures were well managed. Simple booking system, hand sanitiser at the entrance and plenty of parking. There was only one toilet which took ages to refill so long wait before we got in and longer wait because boys wouldn't use it until I'd flushed after previous person's use. The gift shop was small and nice but the grumpy man behind the counter spoilt the experience a bit. One member of staff told the boys they could have their members badge for visiting, walked all the way back up to the gift shop to be told by grumpy man in a not particularly pleasant way that she was new and didnt know what she was talking about. Again, disappointed boys. I appreciate that we are lucky to be able to visit at all in the current situation and the castle is lovely, but dodgy toilet and grumpy old man spoilt it somewhat today,...