St Mawes Castle

St Mawes Castle is a Tudor coastal fortification built on the Cornish shore with a central round tower surrounded by three semicircular bastions arranged in a cloverleaf shape. This design allowed defenders to fire at approaching vessels from multiple angles and control access to the estuary below.

The castle was built starting in 1539 under King Henry VIII as part of coastal defense against French and Spanish threats. It was one of many forts constructed along the English coast during this period of rising naval tensions.

The castle preserves Tudor military engineering techniques through its architectural elements, including thick stone walls designed for mounting heavy artillery.

The site is open to visitors and offers good views across the water and toward the opposite shore. Walking paths connect the different sections, giving access to various vantage points around the structure and across the estuary.

The fort originally had gun positions mounted on its bastions and housed a small garrison to staff them. Walking around today, you can still spot the slots and openings where cannons once pointed out across the water.

Location: St Just in Roseland

Inception: 1539

Operator: English Heritage

Part of: Device Forts

Address: Castle Drive

Phone: +443703331181

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

GPS coordinates: 50.15540,-5.02394

Latest update: January 8, 2026 16:44