St Michael's Mount
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Port
Falmouth, England, United Kingdom
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Activity Level
Strenuous
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Excursion Type
Local Sightseeing,All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$109.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 5¼ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Originally a Benedictine priory, St Michael's Mount is one of the most dramatic sights in Britain. The castle on top of the crag, accessible by causeway at low tide or by boat, dates from the 12th century. During its long history, the Mount has been a church, priory, fortress and private house, the scene of many military sieges, and a place of pilgrimage. It has been the home of the St Aubyn family for more than 300 years. On the water's edge, there is a traditional harborside community -- once an ancient trading place for tin and other Cornish goods and now home to interesting shops and restaurants.
Climb the steep pathways to the castle entrance. At the top, you're rewarded with magnificent views of Land's End and the Lizard Peninsula. Enter the castle via the West Door for a self-guided visit and cross into the Hall. You will visit the living quarters, the Rococo Gothic drawing room, the Armory, the library (the castle's oldest part), the Priory Church, and the Chevy Chase Room, which takes its name from a plaster frieze depicting a series of hunting scenes. The South Terrace offers splendid views of Mount's Bay and the surrounding coastline.
Notes:
The climb from the harbor to the castle is very steep. Terrain includes cobblestones, uneven paths and more than 50 steps. Wear comfortable closed-toe walking shoes. Depending on tidal conditions, crossing to St Michael's Mount will either be via walking across the causeway or a short boat transfer. Embarkation of the boat is via stepping over a series of boulders on the beach at Marazion. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Bring local currency, as many vendors do not accept credit cards or US dollars. Tour does not operate on Saturdays.