The dramatic coastline around St Mawes was the setting for the popular television series Poldark. St Mawes Castle, on the opposite headland to Pendennis Castle, just adds to the drama.

It has three huge circular bastions like clover leaves, and gun ports covering every angle of approach. It is the finest example of Tudor military architecture.

Henry VIII built it together with Pendennis Castle to guard against attack from the French. It is hardly surprising, when you look at the powerful deterrent of the twin castles, that this attack never came.

From St Mawes there is a fine view of Falmouth, and of the pretty fishing village of St Mawes itself.

Facilities.
Picnics welcome.
Gift shop.
Souvenir guide available.
Toilets.
Parking.

How to get there.
Road: in St Mawes on A3078.
Foot Ferry: St Mawes Ferry Company from Falmouth, Prince of Wales Pier (Tel: 01326 - 313234).
Car: via King Harry Ferry at Feock on B3289 (Tel: 01872 - 862312).