Top 2 Caves around St. Breward

The primary public cave attraction in the vicinity is Carnglaze Caverns, offering three hand-dug caverns and an underground lake. Additionally, Merlin's Cave, located beneath Tintagel Castle, is accessible at low tide and is steeped in Arthurian legend. For a unique coastal experience, Bossiney Cove also features a cave accessible during low tide.

Yes, Carnglaze Caverns is a family-friendly attraction. Visitors are provided with a route plan and safety helmet to explore the caverns at their own pace, and there are information boards detailing the site's history. Merlin's Cave at Tintagel can also be an exciting visit for families, though it requires careful attention to tide times and involves climbing down rocks.

Carnglaze Caverns holds significant historical importance as Cornwall's only underground slate mine, with excavations dating back over 300 years. The fine, dark blue slate extracted here was crucial for roofing during the Industrial Revolution. During World War II, the Royal Navy even used one of its chambers for rum storage. Merlin's Cave is famously linked to Arthurian legends, particularly Alfred Lord Tennyson's 'Idylls of the King', and local lore suggests Merlin carried the baby King Arthur through it.

At Carnglaze Caverns, you can marvel at an enchanting underground lake with crystal-clear, blue-green water in the third cavern. The caverns themselves are vast, hand-dug spaces of 'cathedral proportions'. Merlin's Cave is a sea cave that goes completely through Tintagel Island, offering a dramatic coastal geological feature, especially when viewed from the Tintagel Castle Bridge.

The underground caverns, such as Carnglaze, maintain a constant temperature of 10°C (50°F) year-round, so it's advisable to wear warm layers even in summer. Sturdy, comfortable footwear with good grip is recommended for exploring the uneven terrain. For sea caves like Merlin's Cave, be prepared for wet conditions and potentially needing to take off your shoes if you venture deep inside.

Carnglaze Caverns can be visited year-round due to its consistent underground temperature. For Merlin's Cave and Bossiney Cove, access is only possible at low tide. Always check local tide times before planning your visit to these coastal caves. Sunny days are generally best for enjoying the views around Tintagel Castle and the coast.

While specific caves may have restrictions, the area around St. Breward offers many dog-friendly outdoor activities. You can find several dog-friendly hikes, such as the 'King Arthur's Hall loop from St Breward' or the 'River Camel & Lank loop'. Always check individual cave attraction policies regarding dogs before visiting.

Exploring Carnglaze Caverns typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing time to walk through the three caverns and view the underground lake. For Merlin's Cave, the time spent depends on your interest and the tide, but a visit might range from 30 minutes to an hour, including the walk down and back up.

The St. Breward area is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy various hiking trails, including routes to King Arthur's Hall or along the River Camel. For mountain biking, there are MTB trails around Bodmin and Cardinham Woods. Many of these routes offer stunning views of the Cornish landscape and coast.

Carnglaze Caverns has dedicated parking facilities on-site. For Merlin's Cave, parking is available in the village of Tintagel, from where you can walk down to the castle and cave access points. It's always advisable to check specific attraction websites for the most current parking information and any potential fees.

Yes, the village of Tintagel, near Merlin's Cave, offers plenty of amenities including cafes, pubs, and bakeries. Carnglaze Caverns also has facilities on-site. In St. Breward itself, you'll find local pubs like The Old Inn, which can be a great stop after exploring the area.