Visiting St Michael’s Mount In Cornwall

St Michael’s Mount is an eye-catching town of the Cornwall which is bridged to the mainland by a causeway which can be crossed only at low tide. The spectacular symbol of history lies in Cornwall like a precious jewel in the crown. The history of this monument is dipped in both legend and folklore. Located across the Mounts Bay to stretches of the Lands & the Lizard, it holds a picturesque frame and attracts tourists round the year. This place and Minack Theatre are among some of the must see places in Cornwall in many of the stunning towns in Cornwall you have to explore!

Throwing light on History

Laying Stones

The history is traced back to the 12th century when in 1135, a small structure was built here. Several buildings on the island followed the trail. There are some clues which suggest that the island was inhabited in the Neolithic era (4000-2500BC). It may have been under influence of continental merchants who used it as a trade port named “Ictis” for Cornish tin.

Catholic Command

The fact is crystal clear that the Mount was gifted by Edward the Confessor to Norman abbey of Mont-Saint Michel. Over the next few years, they built a church at the place. The place remained under influence of the Monks till the place became a strategic base for Perkin Warbeck.

Military Period

After the dissolution of King Henry VII monasteries, the place was occupied by military governors. The Mount was later surrendered to Parliamentarian force and reached the command of St Aubyn by 1659. The place was owned by his descendant till the latter half of 20th century.

Entrusted To National Trust

The Mount was later on entrusted to the National Trust in 1954 who serves as its caretaker by the time. The castle is much popular with the tourists for its valuable treasure of books, its tidal clock, and the historic mummified cat. It hosts a model made out of champagne corks dedicated to the Mount.

Is St Michael’s Mount Worth A visit

The most treasured site of the Mount is monastic Lady Chapel that was later used as a drawing-room. The castle bricks hold multiple ancient barracks and museum rooms. Elizabeth terrace which is a stretch of late 19th century buildings is spread around the castle. Do not miss the vintage watchtower and cannons.

High and low tides are observed around the island. The sea waves do not touch Mount on neap tides. During the spring tides, the splash is higher. The water touches the Mount after 4 hours and 30 minutes of the start of the tide every fortnight.

There is a garden attached to the castle dusted with lilies and enchanting flowers. Island Café for cream tea is there for you to enjoy some tea by the shore of St Michael.

St Michael’s Mount Facts To Note

The Mount was a hub of the tin industry about 2000 years ago. During the 6th century, the place was considered to be sacred and a religious destination.

The Mount holds some memories of historic World War II when it was used as a refugee center against German intrusion. Bunkers can be located alongside the Mount.

The Mount has been captured behind the camera in some honor earned movies. “James Bond” (1983), “Never Say Never Again” (1983), “Johnny English” (2003), and “Mariah Mundhi and the Midas Box “(2012) were posturized here. The Mount also served as Dracula Castle back in 1979 for film Dracula.

How to Get To St Michael’s Mount

We drove from London so we had access to our car to explore Cornwall. You can also travel by bus around the towns. There are a couple of buses that get Marazion and its a quick walk to the beach for St Michael’s Mount. To get to St Michael’s Mount by car, take the A30 to Penzance. Next, follow the signs for Marazion. The other option is to take the train from London which drops you at Penzance station. Take the bus or taxi from the station to reach Marazion. There is a large car parking in a seafront car park. You can also find some shops and a pub or two to chill out afterwards.

Best Times To Visit St Michael Mount

St Michael’s Mount is open to the public from April to October in weekdays from Sunday to Friday. Usual opening hours for St Michael’s Mount are 10 a.m to 5:30 p.m. Opening hours are dependent upon weather conditions. It is best to visit the official website to have accurate information before planning your visit.

Mount can be approached by ferry boats in case of high tides. When there is low tide, consider walking along the charismatic path leading to the castle. Entry fee to both garden and the castle costs about £16 for adults and £8.00 for children.

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