Local History

Pendennis Castle, situated in Falmouth was built by order of Henry VIII to protect the extensive waters known as Carrick Roads.

The site boasts buildings from different centuries and stunning views.

Take an audio trip around the castle.

In part one BBC Cornwall's Matt Shepherd hears about some ghostly happenings, by clicking on the link below:

Parts two and three will be added later in March 2008.

A re-enactment

Pendennis Castle was one of the many built during the reign of Henry VIII, after he fell out with France and Spain.

Fearing attacks from these two strong countries, the flamboyant King built a series of castles around the British coastline.

Pendennis Castle's purpose was to protect the extensive waters known as the Carrick Roads and today it stands proud among other more recent, but still historic buildings on the site.

Click on the links below to look around the castle, and enjoy views of Falmouth and St Mawes:

Working your way up a winding staircase, listen out for strange noises.

Looking out towards St Mawes

The staircase is believed to be haunted, after the death of a kitchen maid. She apparently fell to her death while carrying a tray of food. Sometimes her piercing screams can still be heard...

Another ghost, believed to roam the castle, lives in a Tudor kitchen at Pendennis. The room is rarely used by the public, but those who have been inside say they hear footsteps on the staircase, even though it no longer leads anywhere...

Have you spotted anything spooky at the castle? Fill in the form at the bottom of this page and share your story. 

Even after the death of Henry VIII, Pendennis continued to play a vital role in Cornwall's defences throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The grounds saw significant action during World War II.

The refurbished 1901 Royal Artillery Barracks houses an interactive exhibition, tracing the history of the castle, its people, and its links with Falmouth and the trade routes of the British Empire.

There's always plenty going on at the castle. Click on the link below to see a guide: