The Castle RollsA survey of every visitable castle in the United Kingdom
4.7 / 5 · 45 reviews FREE ENTRY

King Charles's Castle

Cornwall, England


King Charles's Castle
King Charles's Castle, further view King Charles's Castle, further view

Key facts

Operator
English Heritage
Condition
Ruin
Access
Free, open access

Pinpoint

Back Ln, Tresco, Isles of Scilly TR24 0QQ

Telephone 0370 333 1181

Possible Opening hours

Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.

MondayOpen 24 hours
TuesdayOpen 24 hours
WednesdayOpen 24 hours
ThursdayOpen 24 hours
FridayOpen 24 hours
SaturdayOpen 24 hours
SundayOpen 24 hours

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.

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 · 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.

Tudor artillery fort on Tresco, Isles of Scilly

“Fantastic ruined castle with a good history. Fabulous views over Tresco”— Claire Searancke, visitor review

Further reading

Civil War: The War of the Three Kingdoms 1638-1660 cover book
Civil War: The War of the Three Kingdoms 1638-1660

Trevor Royle

Find it on Amazon
book
Sieges of the English Civil Wars

John Barratt

Find it on Amazon
book
God's Fury, England's Fire

Michael Braddick

Find it on Amazon