Marazion, in Cornwall, is a historic market town that is perfect for a staycation all year round. The town is home to a fairytale castle and boasts stunning beaches
Marazion, a historic market town in Cornwall, is a dream come true for staycationers with its stunning beaches and legendary fairytale castle.
Nestled along the shores of Mount’s Bay, just two miles east of Penzance, Marazion offers a fantastic getaway that can be enjoyed all year round. The tidal island of St Michael’s Mount sits half a mile off the shoreline, adding to the town’s charm.
The location is part of the Cornwall Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, ensuring its landscape receives the same protection as a national park. This keeps it pristine, secure and undeniably breathtaking.
The town’s golden beaches meet crystal-clear azure waters, overlooked by the island’s most impressive attraction – its storybook castle.
At the heart of the community is the famous St Michael’s Mount, a small island located just half a mile from the coastline, home to a medieval castle. With no permanent bridge connecting it, access is only possible on foot or by boat, reports Cornwall Live.
To reach this enchanting destination, there is a historic stone causeway, only visible when the tide recedes. However, when the tide rises, adventurers can hop on one of the many boats ferrying visitors to and from the tiny island, according to the Express.
A TripAdvisor reviewer described their visit as “magical”, saying: “You can’t go to Marazion and not explore the mount. The views are beautiful, and there’s something magical about crossing a pathway that disappears during high tide. Yes, it is expensive, but it is also unique.
“The mount is a National Trust site, and so you can get in for free with your membership. The castle is fairly small but still nice to explore, with great views across the bay.”
What’s more, Marazion features a spectacular beach that extends along the shoreline within Mount’s Bay.
The coast provides magnificent vistas of the mythical island from the walkway.
It acts as an ideal location for catching some rays or, for those craving excitement, numerous aquatic pursuits.
From windsurfing to kitesurfing, jet skiing and sailing, the region provides an extensive array of pastimes to keep thrill-seekers occupied.
Furthermore, around Chapel Rock and Marazion Harbour close to the beach, there are numerous rock pools ready to be discovered.
Nevertheless, it’s important to remember that during the summer period from July to August, between the peak times of 10am-6pm, a temporary dog ban is enforced.
Apart from this restriction, the shoreline benefits from lifeguard monitoring from early July through to early September, guaranteeing secure bathing for you and your loved ones. A delighted visitor took to TripAdvisor to share their experience, saying: “Absolutely stunning beach to relax at. St Michael’s Mount is beautiful to look at. Ample parking. Overflow car parks as well. Toilets by the children’s park are free. Little coffee bar in the lane with lovely coffee and owner. We will definitely be returning in the future.”
Beyond its spectacular natural splendour, the town boasts a fascinating history as one of Britain’s most ancient chartered communities.
It’s thought to have been granted its charter as far back as 1257, with the name itself stemming from “small market” and “Thursday market”.
It emerges that Marazion served as a crucial hub for commerce well into the mediaeval period and continues to celebrate its handmade wares and craft specialities.
As Penzance rose to greater importance, this charming community slipped into the shadows and endures today as a secret treasure in West Cornwall, far from the crowds and chaos.