Auction of ideas to have magical Tintagel all to yourself*

The mystical cliff-top ruins of Cornwall’s Tintagel Castle are visited by thousands of people each year but for the first time in its history someone will have the chance to claim the title ‘king of the castle’ and enjoy private access to one of England’s most magical treasures – the legendry birthplace of King Arthur.

English Heritage, the custodian of Tintagel Castle, is offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to soak up the magic and majesty of the 800-year-old fortress in glorious isolation. In an ‘auction of ideas’ contenders will have the chance to put forward their ‘bid’, or big idea, explaining why they, and up to five guests, should win the keys to the castle – be it to bring to life the legend of King Arthur, find the perfect place to pop the question, celebrate a special birthday, or even paint a masterpiece.

Matt Ward from English Heritage explains: “Tintagel Castle is such a beautiful and atmospheric place, as well as being steeped in history and folklore it has some of the most spectacular views along the English coastline. Never before have we been able to hand over the castle for someone to enjoy exclusively so we’re really excited to see what ideas people will come up with to make the most of it.”

Ideas can be submitted on the castle’s Facebook page www.facebook.com/tintagelcastle and the most popular entry – the one which gathers the most support through ‘likes’ by 1 August – will win a slice of history one summer’s evening later that month.

* Competition Terms and Conditions
The prize is limited to a maximum of six people. It must be taken at 6pm to 8pm between 6 August 2011 and 20 August 2011. There is no cash alternative to the prize. The winning bid, that with the most ‘likes’, will be subject to English Heritage’s discretion bearing in mind the physical limitations and historic value of the site.

For information about Tintagel Castle (including accessibility) call: 01840 770328 or visit www.english-heritage.org.uk/tintagelcastle