CASTLE VISITS TO 'KEEP' ALL THE FAMILY ENTERTAINED

From Norman earthworks to royal palaces, English Heritage cares for more mighty strongholds than anyone. And these days, writes MATT NIXSON, you don't need to lay siege to get inside... our brilliant free family passes offer entry to more than 100 fortifications

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TINTAGEL CASTLE, CORNWALL

Centuries of erosion have taken parts of Tintagel Castle into the sea dividing the jagged headline from the mainland above a natural chasm. Yet it isn't difficult to imagine just how splendid it was in its prime and Tintagel remains one of the UK's most spectacular historic sites.

No wonder early historian Geoffrey of Monmouth claimed it as the place of King Arthur's conception. But legend or history, Tintagel was almost certainly home to the rulers of Cornwall from the 5th to 7th century AD. English Heritage's Curator of History Will Wyeth explains: "Our archaeologists have recently found evidence for Cornish lords who visited the castle in the 5th and 6th centuries and enjoyed feasts of hog roast, local ale and sweet Greek wine." Today visitors can follow in the footsteps of those early inhabitants, crossing from the mainland via the awe-inspiring new footbridge - opened six years ago to recreate the original and enjoying spectacular views as waves crash on the rocks below. Twice a day, the receding tide at Tintagel reveals a world of rockpools and 'Merlin's Cave' stretching deep into the cliffside, this dark cove is a treat for youngsters to explore.

KENILWORTH CASTLE, WARWICKSHIRE