12 Facts About St Michael’s Mount

March 04th, 2024

St Michael’s Mount is one of Cornwall’s most recognisable landmarks, offering a magical setting that captures the imaginations of travellers from near and far.

The tidal island, topped with a castle, mediaeval church and subtropical gardens, emerges from the waters of Mount’s Bay, just off the coast of the picturesque town of Marazion. It is accessible by boat or, at low tide, by the iconic cobbled causeway. Rich with history, local legends and unforgettable sights, St Michael’s Mount is certainly worth the trip! Here are just some of the things that make it so special.

1. It Was an Ancient Trading Post

Before the churches, monasteries and castles, it’s thought that St Michael’s Mount was a key port for trading Cornish tin with the Greeks and other civilisations. Ancient records refer to a tin trading centre known as Ictis – it has since been suggested this island was St Michael’s Mount.

2. It’s Linked With the Archangel Michael

The Mount is named for the Archangel (or Saint) Michael, who is said to have appeared to fishermen to warn them of danger. Because of this legendary apparition, the site became an important pilgrimage spot.

3. It Has a French Counterpart

If you head across the channel, just off the coast of Normandy, you’ll find another island abbey dedicated to St Michael. Around the time of the Norman conquest, the Cornish Mount was given to the Abbey of Saint-Michel because it supported William the Conqueror. Both were mediaeval pilgrimage sites with strong similarities and links, although Mont-Saint–Michel strikes a much taller figure. The links between the islands started to break down during the many subsequent conflicts between England and France until Henry V took control of St Michael’s Mount in the 15th century.

Like St Michael’s Mount, you can still visit Mont-Saint-Michel today to marvel at the impressive Benedictine abbey.

4. It’s Where the Legend of the Jack the Giant Killer Originates

According to Cornish legend, the Mount was built by the giant Cormoran, who would terrorise local towns and steal livestock. The story goes that Jack, a boy from Marazion, was the only one brave enough to face the giant. One night, he dug a trap for Cormoran, luring him out by blowing on a horn. The giant raced down the Mount and straight into the trap.

Later tales of Jack the Giant Killer see him joining legendary King Arthur’s court and taking on many more giants!

5. It’s 1 of 43 Tidal Islands Around the UK

St Michael’s Mount is just one of the UK’s 43 tidal islands that you can walk to from mainland Britain. The Mount is probably one of the most famous ones as it’s topped with the castle, but other examples include St Mary’s Island, Lindisfarne and Burgh Island.

Many other tidal islands are also connected to religious worship and spirituality, thanks to their unique, magical locations.

6. The Same Family Have Owned it Since the 17th Century

During its long history, ownership of the Mount has passed through many hands – until the St Aubyn family. After the English Civil War, John St Aubyn was appointed as Captain of the Mount. In 1659, he then purchased it from the previous owner. St Michael’s Mount has been in the same family ever since, with generations continuing to live on the island.

7. There are Permanent Residents on the Island

Along with the St Aubyn family, there are around 30 people who’ve also made their home on the ancient site. The close-knit community is now quite small, but the village here used to be a busier hive of residential island activity. In Victorian times, there were upwards of 300 islanders, with the bustling harbour welcoming sailors and fishermen.

8. Queen Victoria Visited

In 1846, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert visited St Michael’s Mount as part of their Cornish tour. In commemoration of the event, a brass footprint where she stepped was cast, which you can still see today. When heading up to view the castle, you can also see the sofa where she sat to enjoy a cup of tea, along with various other treasures remaining from the 19th century.

9. The Gardens are Sub-Tropical

Along with the impressive architecture and historical significance, the Mount is also famed for its gardens. Fed by the warm air of the Gulf Stream, the gardens here enjoy their own micro-climate, allowing for the growth of exotic plants and flowers.

10. The Gardeners Here are Also Abseilers

Because the vertical terrace gardens are quite difficult to traverse and maintain, the gardeners at St Michael’s Mount also have to be proficient in abseiling! This allows them to weed and maintain the beauty of the gardens in those trickier spots. Because the gardens are so delicate, visitors here are quite limited – as such, they are designed to be seen from above, so there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy them.

11. It Appears in Various TV Shows & Films

St Michael’s Mount has also played host to various TV and film productions, lending its iconic exteriors to a range of projects. More recently, it took on the mantle of Driftmark from the Game of Thrones sequel, House of the Dragon. It has also appeared in a James Bond film and an adaptation of Dracula.

12. It’s Now Run By the National Trust

Most of the island was given to the National Trust by the St Aubyn family in 1954. The National Trust is instrumental in helping with the upkeep and running of what has become a beloved attraction. As with many of its sites, the National Trust helps ensure the Mount is maintained as a place of exploration, learning and appreciation.

St Michael’s Mount is just one of Cornwall’s many delights. Our luxury holiday park in Cornwall is in a great central location and is sure to make an excellent base for your adventures, giving you easy access to all of the county’s best-loved hotspots.

Book your perfect Cornish holiday with The Valley today!

8 Best Family Friendly Woodland Walks in Cornwall

February 05th, 2024

While Cornwall might be more well-known for its beaches than its woods, there are still plenty of gorgeous green spaces to explore with the family. Whether it’s a refreshing autumn amble or a leisurely summer stroll, here are some of our favourite woodland walks suitable for everyone to enjoy.

Staying at our luxury holiday village in Cornwall? Many of these walks are just a short distance away from us, providing a memorable day out as you embark on your Cornish adventure!

The Best Woodland Walks in Cornwall

• Tehidy Country Park
• Idless Woods
• The Lost Gardens of Heligan
• Cardinham Woods
• Trelissick
• King’s Wood
• Lanhydrock
• Kilminorth Woods

1. Tehidy Country Park, Cambourne

The Tehidy Country Park covers 250 acres of woodland with 9 miles of paths, offering plenty of routes for all the family, including those with little legs!

The circular walk surrounding the lake is ideal for families. It’s flat, off-road and signposted, making for a relaxed adventure in the great outdoors. With an array of local flora and wildlife to spot, it’s an engaging but tranquil trail – perfect for wiling away an afternoon.

The estate has toilets, a cafe and picnic areas located by the South Drive car park.

Clearing in North Cliff Plantation, Tehidy Country Park by Rod Allday. CC BY-SA 2.0

2. Idless Woods, Truro

Just outside of Truro, you’ll find Idless Woods, a stretch of woodland spanning almost three miles. Along the various paths, you’ll find a diverse assortment of trees, many of which are great for climbing if the adventurers among you are keen for a challenge! It’s also a fantastic spot for dogs, as they’ll have endless fun running through trees, too.

Managed by Forestry England, the woods have a number of routes set up to follow, as well as seven orienteering courses established to test out your navigational skills. The forest trails offer some stunning scenes, especially when autumn turns everything gold.

3. The Lost Gardens of Heligan, Pentewan

Heligan is a treasure trove for nature lovers, with a network of magical gardens, woodland and even a jungle. Within the 60 acres of woodland, you’ll find paths winding through the lost valley and ancient woodlands created for the Tremayne family 200 years ago.

As well as an impressive panorama of trees and plants, you’ll also come across Heligan’s iconic sculptures, charcoal kilns, ponds and charming wildflowers.

Heligan Play Meadows (Cornwall’s largest outdoor play area) is another must-visit spot along your trail, providing somewhere for you to sit and relax while the kids run wild.

A figure in the gardens at Lost Gardens of Heligan by Northmetpit. CC BY-SA 3.0

4. Cardinham Woods, Bodmin

Hidden in a picturesque valley just outside of Bodmin, you’ll find Cardinham Woods. A stunning place to stretch your legs and enjoy a breath of fresh air, Cardinham incorporates four walking trails of different lengths and gradients to suit all abilities.

For families, the Lady Vale Walk is ideal as it’s a flat and well-marked track that takes you through majestic woodland and past bubbling streams. The Woods Cafe makes a fantastic place to stop for refreshments when you’ve had enough of walking. There is also a play area by the cafe.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous, Cardinham Woods has some brilliant cycling and mountain biking trails to get you enjoying the sights on two wheels.

Lady Vale Bridge, Cardinham Woods, Cornwall by Terry McKenna. CC BY-SA 2.0

5. Trelissick, Truro

Trelissick is an estate run by the National Trust, comprising an impressive house, gardens and woodland. The estate is on its own peninsula with views out onto the River Fal. The three-mile woodland walk follows the river, offering a peaceful stroll with unbeatable views of the surrounding areas.

While dogs are not permitted in the main gardens, they are free to roam the parkland and woodland. There is a cafe and tea room on hand when you’re ready for refreshments.

Trelissick House and garden by Sarah Smith. CC BY-SA 2.0

6. King’s Wood, St Austell

The King’s Wood walk takes you on a circular path running from St Austell to Pentewan. As part of the Pentewan Trail, large parts of the route here are flat and easily accessible. The leafy woodland and meandering streams are especially beautiful in spring and summer, paired with the rich variety of colourful flora.

If you make it down to Pentewan, you can swap woodland views for sandy shores and crystal waters as you enjoy the beach here – the perfect combination of Cornish natural beauty!

7. Lanhydrock, Bodmin

Another National Trust property, Lanhydrock is a Victorian country house complete with a garden and wooded estate that stands out as one of Cornwall’s crowning jewels. Along with majestic views of the house itself, there are almost 1,000 acres of parkland and woodland to explore.

The circular walk is a great adventure for all the family, taking you through ancient woodland and riverside paths to enjoy the abundance of natural beauty. The estate offers several stunning walks, including the Respryn ramble, garden explorer trail and Great Wood and Beech Avenue trail. Keen cyclists will also have fun on the woodland cycle trails.

Avenue of trees at Lanhydrock, Bodmin, Cornwall by Derek Voller. CC BY-SA 2.0

8. Kilminorth Woods, Looe

As one of the largest valley oaklands in Cornwall, Kilminorth Woods provides some stunning woodland sights. The walk includes a stroll along the riverside path before leading you up the valley and into the woods, depending on the route you take.

This area is a nature reserve, so there are plenty of chances to spot a diverse range of local wildlife – be on the lookout for kingfishers, herons and even Roe deer!

Path junction, Kilminorth Wood by Derek Harper. CC BY-SA 2.0

At The Valley, our holiday cottages are nestled in amongst their own woodland area, offering a few country walks right on your doorstep. And when you want to venture further afield, we make the ideal base for when you’re ready to return and put your feet up!

For more inspiration on days out with the family, check out our favourite picnic spots.