Top 6 Castles around St Martin'S
Best castles around St Martin'S offers a journey through historical fortifications and ancient sites on the Isles of Scilly. The island features a rugged coastal landscape with strategic viewpoints overlooking the sea and surrounding islands. This area is characterized by its rich military history, including Civil War-era defenses and earlier prehistoric structures. Visitors can explore various historical sites that provide insights into the island's past and its defensive importance.
Best castles around St Martin'S
- The most popular castles is Innisidgen…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Star Castle
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Cromwell's Castle
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Innisidgen Burial Chamber
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Harry's Walls
Highlight • Historical Site
english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/harrys-walls
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King Charles's Castle
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Popular around St Martin'S
Tips from the Community
There is a hotel in the Star Castle. But you can climb the ring of walls and admire the view.
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Ruins of a Royalist Civil War fort which was blown up before it was stormed by Parliamentary troops. A great vantage point over New Grimbsby Sound.
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Small Civil War-era fort blown up by the Royalists before the storming. Fantastic views over New Grimsby Sound.
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Old Civil War fortifications. Before it was conquered by the Parliamentary troops, it was blown up by the Royalists. Wonderful vantage point
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The newer of the two major fortifications was built in 1651 by Parliamentary troops after taking the island from the Royalists. With his well-fortified cannons on the top of the tower, he dominated the entrance to New Grimsby Sound. The tower is freely accessible and has a beautiful vaulted room inside. There is a beautiful view from the upper platform.
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Beautiful castle overlooking the water. In general, it's nice to walk across the island, the sailing boats in the bays, the lively ferry traffic, the harbor lies like a beehive, the awareness of being here in the middle of the Atlantic. A dream.
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Beautiful walk around the Garrison walls. Lots of historic sights to take in.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of historical fortifications can I explore around St Martin'S?
Around St Martin'S, you can explore a variety of historical sites, ranging from ancient prehistoric structures to Civil War-era defenses. Notable examples include the Iron or Bronze Age ritual site of Innisidgen Burial Chamber, the 16th-century ruins of Harry's Walls, and the 17th-century Civil War fortifications like Cromwell's Castle and King Charles's Castle.
Are there any family-friendly historical sites to visit?
Yes, Harry's Walls is considered a family-friendly historical site. These ruins of a 16th-century fortress are free to visit, offering an accessible glimpse into the region's past.
What kind of views can I expect from these historical sites?
Many of the historical sites offer stunning panoramic views. For instance, Star Castle provides beautiful views over the water and surrounding bays. Cromwell's Castle offers a great view from its upper platform, dominating the entrance to New Grimsby Sound, while King Charles's Castle is a wonderful vantage point with fantastic views over New Grimsby Sound.
Can I go hiking near the castles and historical sites?
Absolutely! The area around St Martin'S is excellent for hiking. You can find routes like the 'St Mary's Prehistoric loop via Bant's Carn & Innisidgen Burial Chamber' or the 'Cromwell's Castle – Gallery Tresco loop'. For more options, explore the Hiking around St Martin'S guide.
Are there easy walks or trails suitable for all abilities?
Yes, there are several easy walks available. For example, the 'St Mary's Prehistoric loop via Bant's Carn & Innisidgen Burial Chamber' and the 'Cromwell's Castle – Gallery Tresco loop' are both rated as easy. You can find more accessible options in the Easy hikes around St Martin'S guide.
What is the historical significance of <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/543856" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Innisidgen Burial Chamber</a>?
Innisidgen Burial Chamber is a prehistoric ritual site dating back to the Iron or Bronze Age. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient history and early inhabitants of the Isles of Scilly.
What can I expect when visiting <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/496288" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Cromwell's Castle</a>?
Cromwell's Castle is a historical site built by Parliamentary troops in 1651. It features well-fortified cannons and offers a beautiful view from its upper platform, dominating the entrance to New Grimsby Sound. The tower is freely accessible and includes a vaulted room inside.
What do visitors enjoy most about the castles and historical sites in this region?
Visitors frequently highlight the rich history and the stunning views. They appreciate the opportunity to explore old forts with colorful histories, enjoy beautiful walks around garrison walls, and take in the panoramic vistas over the water and surrounding bays.
Are there opportunities for running near these historical sites?
Yes, the area offers several running trails. You can find routes like the 'Tresco Heliport – King Charles's Castle loop' or the 'Cromwell's Castle – Tresco Island loop'. More running options are available in the Running Trails around St Martin'S guide.
What is <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/543858" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Star Castle</a> and what makes it a popular spot?
Star Castle is an old fort that also serves as a viewpoint. It's popular for its colorful history and the beautiful views it offers over the water and surrounding bays. Many visitors enjoy walking around its garrison walls.
What is the history behind <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/496491" target="_blank" rel="noopener">King Charles's Castle</a>?
King Charles's Castle consists of the ruins of a Royalist Civil War fort. It was blown up by the Royalists themselves before it could be stormed by Parliamentary troops. Today, it stands as a significant historical site and a fantastic vantage point over New Grimsby Sound.
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