The Modern Knight of Cornwall: How One Hotel Owner Turned Down £1M to Save a Legendary Town

Now, before we dive into the magic of Tintagel, let’s talk about a recent legend-in-the-making: John Mappin, owner of Camelot Castle Hotel, and his battle to protect this historic town.

Imagine waking up to a phone call offering you a massive sum of money—£1 million ($1.3 million USD), to be exact—to turn your hotel into government housing for asylum seekers. Sounds like a bizarre plot twist, right?

That’s exactly what happened to Mappin. But instead of cashing in, he turned it down, choosing to stand by his town and its people.

Why? Because Camelot Castle Hotel is more than a business—it’s the heart of Tintagel. The town thrives on tourism, and if the hotel were closed off for a year, the local economy would collapse.

Restaurants, pubs, and shops would struggle. Jobs would disappear. Tintagel would lose what makes it special. And let’s be honest—would King Arthur have let that happen? Absolutely not.

Mappin’s refusal wasn’t just about business. It was about preserving a community, protecting the town’s heritage, and ensuring that Tintagel remains a welcoming place for visitors seeking history, adventure, and a bit of mythic magic.

And honestly? That makes staying at Camelot Castle Hotel even more legendary.

A Knight’s Retreat Without the King’s Ransom

Of course, there are plenty of places to see in Britain, but if you’re looking to support a fellow patriot who truly cares about his country, then this area of England is stunning and well worth adding to your itinerary. From your cheap but nice hotel in London, it’s about a 4.5-hour drive to Tintagel.

Now, imagine yourself standing on the rugged cliffs of Tintagel and Cornwall, the salty sea air rolling in over an ancient land, and a castle hotel perched on the edge of history itself. Welcome to Camelot Castle Hotel in Tintagel, a place where Arthurian legends meet real-world hospitality—all without gutting your travel budget.

But what exactly are Arthurian legends? These are the famous tales of King Arthur, the Knights of the Round Table, Merlin the Wizard, and the mystical land of Camelot.

According to myth, King Arthur was born right here in Tintagel, making this region the legendary backdrop for stories of heroism, magic, and medieval chivalry. Even if you don’t believe in enchanted swords or wizards in caves, there’s no denying that this place feels like stepping into a legend.

Why Stay at Camelot Castle Hotel?

Sure, you could save a bit of money and stay down the street at some soulless chain hotel, but why would you when you could stay in a place that looks like it was lifted straight from a medieval epic? Camelot Castle Hotel isn’t just a room with a view—it’s an experience. And it’s affordable, too.

And here’s the real thing, the man behind it all, John Mappin, is like a hero straight out of one of those old legends. When offered a huge sum of money to turn Camelot Castle into government housing, Mappin didn’t just take the cash and run. He refused, choosing instead to stand with his village and protect it from losing its soul.

By doing so, he saved the town of Tintagel from economic collapse and kept the rich history alive for generations to come. That’s the kind of modern-day heroism that makes staying at Camelot Castle feel like you’re stepping into a living legend.

History, Mystery, and a Price You’ll Brag About

This isn’t just any old hotel—it’s a living, breathing piece of history. Sitting high above the dramatic Cornish coast, Camelot Castle Hotel offers stunning views of the Atlantic, a cozy Old World atmosphere, and the kind of charm that makes you half-expect a knight in shining armor to stroll past your breakfast table.

Better yet? It’s surprisingly budget-savvy. Rooms here start at a price that won’t make your wallet weep, especially considering the unbeatable location and the sheer experience of staying in a castle. Forget overpriced resorts—this is where you stay when you want a real taste of Cornwall without spending a king’s fortune.

What to Do in Tintagel (Besides Living Like Royalty)

Tintagel is one of England’s most enchanting villages—small, charming, and packed with history. When you think of quintessentially charming English towns, this is the place that pops into your head and then some. Plus, it’s nestled between two of Britain’s most stunning national parks—Exmoor and Dartmoor—making it a perfect base for adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike.

Here’s what else you can do while staying at Camelot Castle Hotel:

• Explore Tintagel Castle – A stone’s throw from the hotel, these legendary ruins are linked to King Arthur himself. The dramatic cliffside location makes for jaw-dropping views.
• Hike the South West Coast Path – One of the best coastal walks in Britain, leading you along awe-inspiring cliffs, hidden coves, and golden beaches.
• Visit Merlin’s Cave – At low tide, wander into the mystical sea cave where the great wizard was said to have lived. (Or at least where someone probably did some wizard-like thinking.)
• Check Out Boscastle – Just a short drive away, this postcard-perfect fishing village is home to a historic harbor and the delightfully eerie Museum of Witchcraft and Magic.
• Take a Day Trip to Bodmin Moor – If you like rolling hills, eerie rock formations, and a hint of ghostly folklore, this wild and windswept moor is worth the trip.

Final Verdict

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just someone who appreciates a good deal, Camelot Castle Hotel is hands-down one of the best budget-savvy stays in Cornwall. With its unbeatable location, Arthurian charm, and easy access to some of England’s most breathtaking landscapes, it’s a no-brainer for travelers looking to experience the magic of Tintagel without emptying their bank accounts.

Book a stay. Walk the cliffs. Live the legend.

And if you find Excalibur while you’re here? Well, drinks are on you. 🍻

🏰 Check out the hotel here!

Want to support a local hero and explore Cornwall like never before? A stay at Camelot Castle Hotel is your chance to walk in the footsteps of legends and be part of something truly special.

Don’t wait—now is the time to make your mark on Tintagel. Every guest who visits helps support this beautiful town and its people. Your visit matters now more than ever.

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