Tintagel Castle is reached by crossing a footbridge to the island, and the crossing runs on timed slots; once you are over, you can explore at your own pace. The ticket itself is valid all day, so the slot is the one fixed point in the visit.
That slot is what shapes the day. The car parks are pay and display in Tintagel Village, and the walk from there to the footbridge entrance, where your slot begins, takes long enough that it needs to be built into your timing. With toddlers, a baby carrier or baby backpack is advised.
You don’t have to book ahead, but booking online by midnight the day before gets the advance discount and guaranteed entry, and on-the-day prices change with the season. Under-fives go free, and you can book a free infant ticket for them. Opening hours shorten for the winter, and in some winter weeks the site opens only on certain days, so check the calendar for your date.
