Pendennis Castle, Falmouth (Cornwall)

Constructed between 1540 and 1545, this is Cornwall's greatest fortress, having faced new enemies until WWII.

Summary 16th century buildings 18th century buildings 19th century buildings 20th century buildings No smoking Gift shop Information provided Learning facilities Free public car parking (nearby)

Food and Drinks Tea Room Picnic area

Introduction

Pendennis Castle was built by King Henry VIII to defend against possible attack by Spain and France. Throughout its 450-year history, Pendennis Castle has faced new enemies, right up to the Second World War. See a Tudor gun deck in action, and experience the sights and sounds of battle in the interactive exhibition at the Royal Artillery Barracks. Explore the cells of the WWI guard house, and relive the drama of an enemy attack on the WWII observation post. Then descend through secret tunnels to the big guns of Half Moon Battery. Explore centuries of war time history or simply relax , enjoy the scenery and indulge in a Cornish cream tea in the newly refurbished tea room. In its superb coastal setting, Pendennis offers magnificent views of Falmouth and the Fal Estuary.

History to the present day

Constructed between 1540 and 1545, Pendennis and its sister, St Mawes Castle, form the Cornish end of the chain of coastal castles built by Henry VIII to counter a threat from France and Spain. Thereafter Pendennis was frequently adapted to face new enemies over 400 years, right through until World War II.

In 1598, during Elizabeth I's reign, a new type of defensive rampart was added around the original fort. The castle was strengthened again prior to the Civil War and played host to the future Charles II in 1646, before he sailed to the Isles of Scilly. It then withstood five months of siege, before becoming the penultimate Royalist garrison on the British mainland to surrender.

Pendennis continued to play a vital role in Cornwall's defences throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and saw significant action during World War II. Evidence of its fascinating history is on show throughout the site. The Noonday Gun is fired every day during July and August, and the Guardhouse has been returned to its World War I appearance. You can also visit the Half Moon Battery, including the underground magazine (by guided tour only), as well as the original 16th-century keep with its recreated Tudor gun deck.

The refurbished 1901 Royal Artillery Barracks houses an interactive exhibition, tracing the history of the castle, its people, 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.

Food and Drinks

The Tea Room is open from 11.00am and closes usually half an hour before the castle.

For Hospitality and Civil Wedding Ceremony enquiries please contact the Castle directly.

Grounds and gardens

NB: Please note there is limited disbled access (mobility wise) to the 'keep' and parts of the grounds.

Other facilities

Education Centre. Picnic Area. Exhibitions. Discovery Centre. Free Parking (short walk to entrance)

Shop. Tearoom. Toilets incl baby changing.

Arrival information and how to find us

Address: Pendennis Castle, Falmouth, Cornwall, , United Kingdom

Opening Dates & Times:

Apr - Jun, daily 10am - 5pm*

Jul - Aug, daily 10am - 6pm*

Sep, daily 10am - 5pm*

Oct, daily 10am - 4pm

Nov - Mar, Sat & Sun 10am - 4pm (closed 24-26 Dec & 1 Jan).

*The 'Keep' may close briefly for private functions.

2011/12 Admission Prices:

Adult:£6.30

Children (5-15 years):£3.80

Concession:£5.70

Family Ticket: £16.40

NB: Admission prices for visitors and EH members may vary at special events. 

 

More photos of Pendennis Castle, Falmouth

Little Dennis blockhouse

Cannon and castle