King Charles's Castle

King Charles's Castle is a fascinating ruin of an artillery fort on Tresco Island. Built during the reign of King Edward VI (1547-1553), it was intended to protect the harbor of New Grimsby from French invasion, although its location proved to be not very fortuitous.

During the English Civil War, the fort was manned by royalists, who blew up part of the structure during the retreat. Today you can admire the remnants of the polygonal granite structure, with preserved gun emplacements and beautiful views of the surrounding area.

This is the perfect place for history and nature lovers - a walk to the castle across the moors is an added attraction!