Cornwall Things to Do Tips by ViajesdelMundo

ST MICHAEL's MOUNT

Our first day in Penzance, Cornwall, was quite chilly, and very windy. I did not feel inclined to go out! but fortunately, the husband of my friend's friend, who is English and same age as I, whisked me out to go sightseeing, leaving behind all the Sri Lankans to visit together and catch up chatting, etc. --- I was SO glad he did!! Even thought it is a famous National Trust landmark, I had not heard of St. Michael's Mount previously, but it is a most wonderful place to visit!!

When we got to the parking area on shore, we discovered that the tides were such that we couldn't walk out to the island, but needed to take one of the launches. Again, in such winds and cold, I was a little reluctant, not knowing if I would get drenched, but there was nothing to worry about. It only took a few minutes to reach the Mount, and the boatsmen were skilled, of course. My host paid, of course, so I don't know exactly how much it cost.....

It is a bit of a climb up to the Castle, if one has problems in that regard; fortunately, I do not. The building that exists today dates from the 12th century, but there have been a lot of renovations. I will not go into any of the history, as of course there are many many websites and printed info about this site available for anyone interested; but suffice to say it was a Benedictine Abbey; then appropriated by King Henry V during the Hundred Years War with France. Descendants of a long-ago Governor of the Mount still live in the Castle!

As you ascend, there is a picnic area and an herb border, being a remnant of the monastic tradition of growing medicinal herbs. Also there is a dairy, where cows were kept until 1909. Continuing up, there is a Watchtower and defensive walls as well as Civil War gun batteries. Then it gets really interesting as you enter the Castle, as there are many beautiful rooms and treasures to see, which I will detail in a TRAVELOGUE below.

Address: Marazion, Cornwall TR17 0EF

Other Contact: http://www.sacred-destinations.c

Phone: 01736 710507

Website: http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-stmichaelsmount

FIRE ENGINE INN/Pub

Stop by for a pint or more, in a charming old local pub, with a view to St. Michael's Mount!

I read some reviews on a couple websites which were NOT flattering, so just a drink might be the ticket! Some said they were welcoming and others said they were cold and the food not good; maybe a change in manager/ownership?

Address: Higher Fore Street, Marazion, Penzance, Cornwall,

Phone: 08721 077 077

MINACK THEATRE & Visitor Centre

Quite an interesting stop with more stunning views all around. FREE parking.

Daytime Visiting Prices: adult 3.50GBP/Over 60/2.50; under 16 1.40GBP/under 12 free

Entrance includes access to the cafe', as well as the Theatre, which also has a video showing the story of Rowena Cade who originally built the theatre in early 1900s. You can see by the photos, what a unique and fabulous setting it is for the performances during the summer, April to mid September.

Address: Porthcurno, Cornwall

Other Contact: info@minack.com

Phone: 01736 810181

Website: http://www.minack.com

LAND's END

Stunning scenery! coastal walks and the West Country Shopping Village for souvenirs and Cornish products, as well as Cornish Pasties and ice-cream.

I took a break out of the wind and went into the restaurant area for a Cornish Pastie and beer and watched the ocean and tourists pass by.

Parking fee

Other Contact: info@landsend-landmark.co.uk

Phone: 0871 720 0044

Website: http://www.landsend-landmark.co.uk