Merlin’s Cave
Atlantic Rd, Tintagel, England
Merlin's Cave, beneath the cliffs of Tintagel Castle in Cornwall, is steeped in Arthurian legend. Believed to have been the secret retreat of Merlin the wizard, its allure lies in its mystical history. Accessible only at low tide, it's a captivating spot where folklore meets reality, drawing visitors into King Arthur's realm and the spectacular geology of the area.
The basics
To experience Merlin's Cave, it’s best to check tide times beforehand and to park nearby—the cave is only accessible from Tintagel Castle beach during low tide. Take it slow, as the cave entails a steep walk down from Castle Car Park to Castle Road; descend the stairs carefully to the beach and enter the large, eerie cavern to hear the sounds of crashing waves.
Things to know before you go
Always check the tide times before entering the cave.
Keep an eye on the tide, as it can rise quickly if you lose track of time while exploring the cave.
There are no public restrooms at the cave, but you can find some nearby at Tintagel Castle near the café, and also near King Arthur’s Car Park.
Sturdy footwear is recommended, since the entrance to the cave can be slippery.
How to get there
If you’re driving, take the A39 between Wadebridge and Bude, then park in Tintagel. You can also go by bus, taking the #95 or #95A from Wadebridge or the #219 from Boscastle. By train, you can head to Bodmin Parkway, though it’s over 15 miles (24 kilometers) away, so requires additional transportation. Another way to go—especially for adventurous travelers—is the South West Coast Path, a picturesque walking and cycling route stretching along Cornwall's coast. For extra convenience, and to see nearby sights too, join a tour with transportation included.
When to get there
This natural sea cave is only accessible at low tide, and since there are no fixed opening hours, timing your visit with the low tide is the only way to visit safely. Before heading out, check the tide schedule online to make the most of your trip, and plan your arrival and departure accordingly.
What to do after Merlin’s Cave
There are plenty of interesting places to visit after Merlin’s Cave. Begin by exploring the Tintagel Castle ruins; then, if you’re driving, take a short trip to St. Nectan’s Glen, where you can see a stunning waterfall, as well as woodland areas. For shopping and a lunch break, the fishing village of Boscastle is a good pick, and Bodmin Moor is perfect for hiking and seeing rugged nature spots.
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