Pendennis Castle

Pendennis Castle is an artillery fort on a headland overlooking Carrick Roads. The structure features circular keeps, stone walls, and multiple gun platforms showing military engineering from different periods.

The castle was built between 1540 and 1542 under Henry VIII's orders to defend against French and Holy Roman Empire threats. During the English Civil War, the fortress endured a lengthy siege before its defenders were forced to surrender.

The name comes from Pendennis Point, the rocky headland where it stands. Visitors can explore structures across the grounds that reveal how this location served as a regional defense hub for several hundred years.

The site is well-maintained with clear paths leading through the fortifications. Wear sturdy shoes as the ground is uneven with some steep sections.

During a 155-day siege in the Civil War, around 1,000 people held out inside the fortress until starvation forced them to surrender. These harsh conditions reveal how brutal the conflicts of that era were.

Location: Falmouth

Inception: 1540

Part of: Device Forts

Address: Castle Drive, Falmouth TR11 4LP

Website: https://english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/pendennis-castle

GPS coordinates: 50.14734,-5.04788

Latest update: December 7, 2025 10:03