The Castle RollsA survey of every visitable castle in the United Kingdom
4.5 / 5 · 1,156 reviews TICKETED

Restormel Castle

Cornwall, England


Restormel Castle
Restormel Castle, further view Restormel Castle, further view

Key facts

Operator
English Heritage
Condition
Partial ruin
Access
Staffed, ticketed

Pinpoint

Restormel Rd, Lostwithiel PL22 0HN

Telephone 01208 872687

Possible Opening hours

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

Monday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

A circular shell keep - one of the most complete of its kind in England - set on a low hill above the River Fowey, with flat, easy grounds around it and steps up to walk the battlements. It's a modest site reviewers say suits a couple of hours rather than a full day out.

Worth the trip

Walking the full circuit of the battlements - a rare chance to trace an entire circular keep wall from the inside.

Before you go

Toilet facilities are limited to two small unisex WCs and one accessible WC, so plan accordingly; parking is free in the adjacent car park.

WHAT VISITORS SAY · 4.5 / 5 across 1,156 Google reviews

Reviewers describe Restormel Castle as a compact but scenic site, good for a picnic with a couple of hours to spare, and praise the views from the battlements. One visitor notes the toilet facilities are limited, but overall the fair prices and free entry for English Heritage members make it a popular repeat destination.

Circular shell keep

“English heritage estate of a 12th century castle remains. Steps up to walk around castle walls and you can walk around grounds admiring the countryside.”— STEVE FROST, visitor review

Further reading

The English Castle: 1066-1650 cover book
The English Castle: 1066-1650

John Goodall

Find it on Amazon
book
Castle: A History of the Buildings that Shaped Medieval Britain

Marc Morris

Find it on Amazon
Castles: Their History and Evolution in Medieval Britain cover book
Castles: Their History and Evolution in Medieval Britain

Marc Morris

Find it on Amazon