A 16th century castle across the water from Falmouth is to be reopened to visitors.

St Mawes Castle closed in March as a result of the coronavirus pandemic but is one of 40 English Heritage sites that will be welcoming visitors again during August.

Visitors will be able to spend the day exploring the grounds of one of the best-preserved examples of Henry VIII's coastal artillery fortresses.

The Tudor castle, which was built in a clover-leaf shape and would have been originally surrounded by octagonal defences, is set in gardens and grounds overlooking the Fal estuary.

There are also Latin inscriptions in praise of King Henry VIII and his son Edward VI.

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New health and safety measures will be introduced by English Heritage to protect the castle's visitors, volunteers and staff, and those who visit can expect their day out to be a little different with social distancing in place.

Visitor numbers will be limited and all those planning to visit - including members - will have to book in advance on the English Heritage website and arrive during their time slot.

Falmouth Packet:

St Mawes Castle overlooks the Fal estuary

Only those with pre-booked tickets will be permitted entry, although once on site visitors are welcome to stay as long as they like.

Kirsty Hedderly, property manager of St Mawes and sister site Pendennis Castle in Falmouth, which has already reopened, said: “Our staff have been working hard to adapt St Mawes for reopening.

"We want to reassure our visitors that their wellbeing is paramount which is why we have put stringent social distancing measures in place as well as reinforcing our high hygiene standards.

"All our staff are excited to reopen and greet visitors this coming weekend, we can’t wait to share the stories of this incredible site once again.”