A Day Trip to St Michael's Mount: Tips and Experiences
St Michael’s Mount, a tidal island crowned with a medieval castle and lush gardens, is a must-visit destination in Cornwall. Our recent family trip to this iconic landmark was filled with stunning views, historical exploration, and a touch of adventure. Here’s our guide to help you make the most of your visit.
Getting There and Parking
We arrived at the St Michael’s Mount long-stay car park, which offers reasonable fees considering its popularity. You can find the current parking rates on the official website. From the car park, it’s a pleasant 20-minute walk to the mount itself.
Crossing the Causeway
The tidal nature of St Michael’s Mount adds a unique element to your visit. When the tide is out, you can walk across the stone causeway to reach the island. Here are some important points to remember:
- Start at the beginning of the causeway, not in the middle. This is where you’ll collect your entry tokens, which are essential for accessing the castle and gardens.
- The causeway is made of pebbles, making it bumpy and potentially challenging for strollers or wheelchairs.
- If you’re visiting with a baby or toddler, we highly recommend bringing a baby carrier instead of a stroller.
Exploring the Mount
The Climb
The path to the castle is steep and can be tricky in places. We were fortunate to visit on a sunny day when the ground was dry. Be cautious if it’s been raining, as the path could become slippery.
The Castle
Halfway up the mount, you’ll be treated to amazing views, which only get better as you reach the top. There was a short 10-minute queue to enter the castle, but it was well worth the wait. Inside, you’ll find:
- Narrow hallways and low doorways (watch your head!)
- Fascinating historical exhibits
- Spectacular sea views from the castle’s exterior
The Village
After exploring the castle, we made our way down to the charming village at the base of the mount. Here, we enjoyed:
- Delicious ice cream
- A lovely café opposite the harbor, perfect for coffee and cake
- A picnic lunch on the grassy areas
Returning to the Mainland
When it was time to leave, we found that the tide had come in, covering the causeway. Instead of risking a dangerous crossing, we opted for the boat service:
- Tickets cost £2.80 per adult, £1.50 for under 18s, and free for under 1-year-olds.
- The boat journey takes only about 5 minutes.
Top Tips for Visiting St Michael’s Mount
- If you’re a National Trust member, you can enjoy free entry to the castle.
- Bring a baby carrier if you’re visiting with little ones.
- Pack a jacket, even on sunny days. It can get windy on the mount, especially for children.
- Be prepared to return by boat if the tide comes in during your visit.
- Collect your entry tokens at the start of the causeway.
Overall, St Michael’s Mount is a fantastic day out for families, history enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. With a bit of planning and these tips in mind, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience at this Cornish gem.
Don’t forget to check out our Instagram page for photos and videos from our visit!