St Michael's Mount is the jewel in Cornwall's
Crown, a national treasure which is a must for every visitor to the far
West. The great granite crag which rises from the waters of Mount's Bay
is surmounted by an embattled castle, originally a Benedictine Priory built
in the twelfth century and a daughter house of the famous Mont St Michel
in Normandy. From the twelfth Century the Mount was the scene of many military
sieges, a well-known place of pilgrimage and from 1660, until the present
day, home of the St Aubyn family. |
The Mount can be reached by a causeway
at low tide, or at high tide small ferry boats ply back and forth (approximate
fare 70 pence). On the Island there is a National Trust Shop and Audio Visual
Cinema showing the history of the Castle and featuring the Cornish legend
of Jack the Giant Killer |
Restaurants. The Sail Loft Restaurant
offers fine fare and traditional cooking. Island Cafe: With a wonderful
view across the sea to Marazion. The cafe serves light meals, snacks, tea,
coffee, soft drinks and Ice Creams. Both restaurants are open from April
to the end of October. |
The Castle is open all year. From 1st
April to 31st October the castle is open Monday to Friday 10.30 am to 5.30pm
(last admission 4.45pm). From 1st November to 31st March please telephone
to ascertain the opening arrangements on any particular day. Manor Office
tel: 01736 710507. In addition the Castle is open most weekends during the
high season; these are special charity open days when National Trust Members
are asked to pay admission. Please telephone the Manor Office for further
details. |