With centuries of stories waiting within its castle walls, St Michael’s Mount in Marazion is every child’s dream playground. If you’re planning a family visit, take a look at our practical guide to the island – complete with tips on things to and essential information about facilities.
Getting there
There are several car parks in Marazion, but if you’re staying in Penzance it’s greener and easier just to hop on a bus from the station.
During low tide, you can walk across to the island on the causeway in 5-10 minutes. It can be tricky to push a buggy over the uneven cobbles, so a baby carrier is probably the best choice. When the tide covers the causeway, you can catch a boat across from Marazion. Find the latest one-way ferry fares on the Mount’s website
It’s not possible to take pushchairs up to the castle. Buggies can be left in the ‘pushchair park’ until you’re ready to leave again. For more information about accessibility click here; https://www.stmichaelsmount.co.uk/plan-your-visit/access
Opening times and tickets
The island is closed on a Saturday, and the garden is protected by reduced opening hours, so it’s best to check opening times on the website.
Family tickets for the castle (for both single and double parent groups) are available. Because the island is jointly managed by the National Trust and St Aubyn Estates, entry to the castle and gardens is free for NT members (you’ll still need to pay for parking).
Facilities
The island cafe offers high chairs and a selection of healthy snacks and meals for children. There are also plenty of spots for a picnic with a view if you’d rather bring a hamper and blanket.
You’ll find baby changing facilities on the harbour (just along from the Barge House Visitor Centre) and toilets near the Island Cafe, Island Shop and Entrance.
Things to do
Visiting an island as ancient as St Michael’s Mount is sure to fire the imaginations of little ones. Here they can watch for invaders from the castle battlements and play at manning the cannons. Tell children the story of Cormoran the giant and watch them look for his heart among the cobblestones.
If you’re heading up to the castle, get children involved with the family quiz and help them hunt for the clues in every room. To really unearth secrets, ask the helpful castle guides to tell you more – you could hear stories about a mummified Egyptian cat, Samurai warrior and Jack the Giant Killer.
To find out more, visit the St Michael’s Mount website.