Jason B
Google
St Mawes Castle, located near Falmouth in Cornwall, is one of the best-preserved coastal artillery fortresses from the Tudor period. Constructed between 1540 and 1542 during King Henry VIII’s reign, it was designed to defend the Carrick Roads waterway at the mouth of the River Fal against potential invasions from France and the Holy Roman Empire.  
The castle features a distinctive cloverleaf design, comprising a central four-story tower surrounded by three circular bastions. This layout provided extensive platforms for heavy artillery, allowing comprehensive coverage of the surrounding waters. Notably, St Mawes Castle is adorned with elaborate carvings and inscriptions praising Henry VIII, reflecting its historical significance and the era’s architectural style.  
For visitors interested in exploring this historic site, St Mawes Castle is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Booking tickets online in advance can provide a 15% discount on admission prices. It’s important to note that the last admission is 30 minutes before closing time.  
The castle’s address is Castle Drive, St Mawes, Nr Truro, Cornwall, TR2 5DE. For the most current information on opening times and ticket prices, it’s advisable to consult the official English Heritage website.  
There is also a ferry nearby if you’re the other side of the English channel which is very reasonable priced