St. Michael's Mount, Cornwall, UK
Highlight of the Cornish Coast with Medieval Castle and Church
Apr 17, 2008
St. Michael’s Mount offers a wonderful day out. The views of St. Michael’s Mount from the shore are breathtaking, and there is plenty to explore and enjoy while visiting this tidal island. Children and parents alike will enjoy a visit to the spectacular site of St. Michael’s Mount, sister site to the magical Mont St. Michel in Normandy, France.
Origin of St. Michael’s Mount
The first church was built on the site in the fifth century following a vision of the Archangel Michael. It was also such a vision of the Archangel that led to the foundation of a church at Mont St. Michel in France. Within three centuries St. Michael’s Mount was home to a Celtic Monastery.
St. Michael’s Mount Today
The castle is now home to the St Aubyn family, and the island of St. Michael’s Mount has a community of 30 people. Many of the buildings on the island date from the twelfth century.
Access to St. Michael’s Mount
Access to St. Michael’s Mount is from Marazion. The Mount car park is half a mile south of the A394 road. The nearest railway station is three miles west at Penzance, and bus services are available from the railway station to the Mount.
To reach the Mount from Marazion, you have the choice of crossing the man made stone causeway at low to mid tide, or a trip on a small boat from the rocky pier by the beach.
Arrival on the Mount
There is a café and restaurant as well as two shops at the foot of the Mount itself. You may like to refresh yourself here before the steep climb to the castle via the sloping path with steps.
St. Michael’s Mount Gardens
The hanging gardens of the Mount are magnificent thanks its warm microclimate. A team of gardeners use climbing equipment to reach some of the tropical plants that grow in the rocky soil. Low walls protect parts of the garden from strong winds.
St. Michael’s Mount Castle
A visit to the castle is sure to delight children who will enjoy the suits of armour inside and the canons outside in the castle courtyard! The castle contains many interesting paintings and architectural details.
Nearby Places to Visit
St. Michael’s Mount is around one hour by car from the fabulous giant greenhouses of the Eden Project, and is only ten miles south of the charming seaside resort of St. Ives.
Practical Information
Locate St. Michael's Mount on Google Maps
Admission fees for 2008 are:
Castle: Adult £6.60 (approx $13.18), Children £3.30 ($6.59)– with reduced rates for families and groups
Garden: Adult £3 (approx $6) Children £1 (approx $2)
Entry to the Gardens and Castle are free for National Trust Members.
For up to date information on tide times and general information, call the Mount on +44 (0)1736 710507 or + 44 (0)1736 710265.
St. Michael’s Mount may be closed to visitors in poor weather conditions. Please contact the Mount if you are unsure whether to travel to avoid disappointment.
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