King Charles's Castle
Cornwall, England
Key facts
- Operator
- English Heritage
- Condition
- Ruin
- Access
- Free, open access
- Nearest station
- Penzance, 37.8 miles (straight-line)
- Note
- Tudor artillery fort on Tresco, Isles of Scilly
Pinpoint
Back Ln, Tresco, Isles of Scilly TR24 0QQ
Telephone 0370 333 1181
Opening Hours
Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.
Open any reasonable time during daylight hours
Checked against the official page on 13 August 2026.
Visitor essentials
- Facilities
- Refreshments available from a well-stocked shop just south of New Grimsby harbour.
- Safety
- Climbing on the walls is not permitted.
A Tudor artillery fort above Tresco, now reduced to ruined walls, but reviewers visit as much for the walk and the views as the fort itself - a scramble up from Cromwell's Castle below, or a gentler approach from the Quay. There's no entry fee and nothing staffed; what you get is the setting.
At a glance
Worth the trip
The views across the Isles of Scilly from the top - reviewers rate them above the ruin itself.
Before you go
The direct route up from Cromwell's Castle is a scramble rather than a walk - if that's not for you, go via Back Lane from the Quay instead for a gentler climb.
What visitors say
King Charles's Castle reviews · 4.7 / 5 across 45 Google reviews
The available reviews for King Charles's Castle are consistently positive, with visitors praising the walk up and the fantastic views across the surrounding islands and sea.
No entry fee and dog-friendly access are noted as bonuses, and reviewers report no real downsides to the visit.
“Fantastic ruined castle with a good history. Fabulous views over Tresco”- Claire Searancke, visitor review
History
John Killigrew · 1548-1551
Built between 1548 and 1551 under the direction of John Killigrew to defend against French attack, King Charles's Castle served the Royalists during the English Civil War. Defenders partially destroyed it when Parliamentary forces captured the island in 1651.
Adapted from this castle's Wikipedia article, CC BY-SA 4.0.
Common questions about King Charles's Castle
Where is King Charles's Castle?
King Charles's Castle is in Cornwall, England, at Back Ln, Tresco, Isles of Scilly TR24 0QQ.
Is King Charles's Castle free to visit?
Yes - King Charles's Castle is a free, open-access site with no ticket booth, looked after by English Heritage. There may still be a charge for nearby parking, and open-access arrangements can change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel.
Is King Charles's Castle dog-friendly?
Visitor reviews suggest dogs are welcome at King Charles's Castle - one reviewer noted: “…stle. Great hike to the castle as well. Dog friendly.”. Policies can vary between parts of a site and change over time, so confirm with the operator before visiting with a dog.
What is the highlight of visiting King Charles's Castle?
The views across the Isles of Scilly from the top - reviewers rate them above the ruin itself.
Is King Charles's Castle a ruin or still intact?
King Charles's Castle is a ruin - Tudor artillery fort on Tresco, Isles of Scilly.
