Pendennis Castle

CORNWALL TOURISM AWARDS 2009 - Small Visitor Attraction of the Year - Silver

English Heritage

Major developments at the castle have revealed the full history of this superb fortress. 450 years of history can now be traced from its origins as one of Henry VIII's coastal strongholds to its last military role as a secret Second World War base.

A Discovery Centre packed with hands-on activities allows visitors of all ages to really get to grips with history. There is visitor access to the restored underground Victorian and WWII defences complete with sounds and smells! The everyday life of the garrison at Pendennis is brought to life in the War Shelter, whilst the drama of Pendennis at War is also recreated. The turn of the 20th century Barrack Block has undergone renovations to provide a new interactive exhibition and enhance the visitor facilities.

During the Second World War Pendennis was the Command Centre for Cornwall, protecting not only the Cornish coast and the important port of Falmouth but the western approaches to Britain.
Guided tours lead visitors through the underground magazines during an air raid, whilst in the recreated Battery Observation Post they can experience what happens as the alert sounds warning of an impending enemy attack.

Besides this there is the 16th Century keep to explore with its lofty battlements and mighty Tudor gun-deck with the sights and sound of battle. There is also the First World War Guardhouse, complete with cells. Or, there are just the best views in Falmouth to enjoy with water surrounding the castle on three sides; the setting of Pendennis is truly superb. It is the ideal venue for a great day out for all the family and now with so much more to explore undercover, can be enjoyed whatever the weather. Round off your trip with a cream tea in the tearoom.

SERVICES:
Parking, toilets, tearoom, gift shop, souvenir guidebook, education room (school parties by advanced booking only), regular special events. 15 % discount for groups. Civil wedding venue and function rooms.

Opening:

1st April to 30th June - open daily 10:00 - 17:00 (16:00 Sat)

1st July to 31st August open daily 10:00 - 18:00 (16:00 Sat)

1st September to 30th September open daily 10:00 - 17:00 (16:00 Sat)

1st October to 31st October open daily 10:00 - 16:00

1st November to 31st March open Saturday and Sunday only 10:00 - 16:00

Closed 24-26 Dec & 1 Jan

For more information about the events and accessibility visit: www.english-heritage.org.uk/pendennis.