Restormel Castle
Cornwall, England
Key facts
- Operator
- English Heritage
- Condition
- Partial ruin
- Access
- Staffed, ticketed
- Entry pass
- English Heritage Overseas Visitor Pass
- Nearest station
- Lostwithiel, 1.0 miles (straight-line)
Pinpoint
Restormel Rd, Lostwithiel PL22 0HN
Telephone 01208 872687
Possible Opening Hours*
*Opening times change. Always check the official website before you travel.
| Monday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Thursday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Visitor essentials
- Parking
- Two disabled parking bays in the on-site car park, with drop-off at the bottom of the path to the main entrance.
- Access
- Wheelchair access to the admissions point; steps on the entrance path so disabled visitors are advised to call ahead.
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.
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
Practical notes from visitors
Quoted from individual Google reviews, not verified with the operator - treat as a steer, not gospel, and check before you travel.
- Parking
- “Good parking, but a long walk from town if you don't have wheels.” - Khalid Aziz
- How long to allow
- “You will only spend 2 hours or so max here if you bring a picnic.” - Craig Jones
- Terrain & accessibility
- “Within the walls you can climb up steep stone steps to walk around the walls and down the other side, which are stable wooden steps with hand rails.” - Claire Watts
- Facilities
- “Small shop, and limited toilets facilities (two tiny multi sex WCs, and a disabled WC).” - Craig Jones
Common questions about Restormel Castle
Where is Restormel Castle?
Restormel Castle is in Cornwall, England, at Restormel Rd, Lostwithiel PL22 0HN.
Do you need a ticket to visit Restormel Castle?
Yes - Restormel Castle is a staffed, ticketed attraction run by English Heritage. Ticket prices and opening hours change through the year, so check the official site before travelling.
What is the highlight of visiting Restormel Castle?
Walking the full circuit of the battlements - a rare chance to trace an entire circular keep wall from the inside.
Is Restormel Castle a ruin or still intact?
Restormel Castle is a partial ruin - Circular shell keep.
