The Bite Magazine - Spring/Summer 2021 - Issue 29

bitehotelreview streak of the North Cornwall coast is one of Britain’s most ar- chaeologically important places, and the castle has been here since the 13th century. Perched on a cliff, Tintagel Castle is where King Arthur is said to have been born. Hidden on the beach below is Merlin’s cave, where the sorcerer practiced his magic and saved baby Arthur from the crashing waves. It's inaccessible at high tide, but the sandy cave and its ee- rie depths can be inspected for traces of magic to experience even today at low tide. Camelot has also been home to many movie sets over the years with films such as Knights of the Round Table with Ava Gardner, Dracula with Sir Laurence Olivier and many more filmed here. In addition, the castle has inspired artists and lovers of beauty for decades. They currently have resident artist Ted Stourton, a friend and partner of the husband and wife castle owners, John Mappin and Irina Kudenok-Map- pin. John visited Tintagel Island for the first time in February 1999 as part of his research into the trustworthy source of creativity. He acquired Camelot Castle and the adjoining lands and estates as a private residence for his family the same year. He later decided to share it with others to enjoy the accommodation and experience the beauty and atmos- phere of this unique treasure. Upon entering the hall, I was indulged in sumptuous sur- roundings, richly furnished rooms and halls with an art gal- lery by Ted Stourton as a part of the interior. The reception and lounge gave me the feeling of mixed medieval royalty and Downton Abbey style, dwelled amongst the foremost aristocratic comfort and authenticity. The hotel also proudly displays its hall fame of celebrity guests such as Al Pacino, Nicolas Cage, and Sienna Miller, whose pictures are spread all over the walls in the hall. I was welcomed by friendly and attentive staff, who are, as Irina Kudenok-Mappin explained, the family’s private house- hold staff. “They do a wonderful job looking after our guests and can’t be praised enough.” Most people working here have been with the family for many years and look after Camelot as their own home. Indeed, the maintained standards, the atmosphere, attention to detail and care for the guests do not go unnoticed. As I walked down the corridor to my room, it reminded me of the most refined English interiors and well-preserved her- itage; antiquity and splendour would be how I describe it. The Queen Suite I stayed in had once been the room of Ava Gardner. It indeed exceeded my expectations; a stunning panorama over the whole Tintagel Castle site hosted through the big Victorian and Edwardian style windows continuing to the other side of the room onto the balcony. I have to confess, I’m not a morning person, but the follow- ing day I woke up at 6 am and couldn’t fall back asleep with such picturesque views. It would be a sin not to enjoy a cup of coffee with such scenery while cosily lying in the enor- mous, yet elegant, antique bed with delicately carved details. Every corner of the room was breathing with country style glamour and British heritage, traditionally styled, with a grand space and fantastic view. Artistry plays a significant role at Camelot Castle. The own- ers support creatives and offer a week-long all-paid residen- cy for artists mentored and nurtured by Ted Stourton. They get to enjoy Cornwall’s culture, outstanding backdrops, and