Forget-Me-Not

Mrs Bruderer April 2016

Perfect also for children

Ms Gonzalez August 2015

A MUST TO VISIT....

St Michael's Mount is a truly unique and magical place and was the highlight of our stay. Check the tides on the website; you need to walk the Causeway one way and get the boat in the other as the tide will come in/out while you are there. I would advise going early during the high season. That way you will park easily in the National Trust Car Park on the beach and will avoid the worst of the crowds. Both National Trust Cafes on the Mount do amazing food, often sourced from local producers, and they have spectacular views of the mainland. The Crab Rarebit will linger in my memory...mmm!

The warnings of uneven ground should be heeded; you do need to wear supportive footwear...no flip-flops! The cobbled, steep paths up to the Mount are poorly maintained and have great gaps in between the cobbles. One section known as 'The Pilgrim Steps' dates from mediaeval times and are now little more than tumbledown boulders that have to be scrambled up. Buggies are better left behind or you will end up carrying them (and the kids)!

However, it is SO worth the climb for the amazing views from the top and to look around the house and Church. What a history! Medieval Abbey, to Civil War fortress, and now a private residence. Stunning!

Mitcy Dupres August 2015

Be prepared to hike

Whether you walk across the causeway or get the ferry (likelihood is you'll do both), at some point you will have to walk. The walk from quay to either the gardens or the castle is a bit of a trek, with the latter needing the visitor to scramble up steep cobbled steps and pathways. Once you reach either the strenuous walk is immediately forgotten as you are left agog at the stunning views, both natural and man made.
The top of the castle commands spectacular views across Mount Bay, with Newlyn, Penzance and Marazion all within a perfect vista. If you're brave enough you can peer over the ramparts and spy the fabulous gardens from on high.
Children are easily entertained by the castle quiz and they get a prize at the end, adults can simply wonder at the artefacts on display and the fabulous architecture.

October 2012

Well worth a visit

October 2012

Thoroughly enjoyed our trip to St Michael's mount. The castle was delightful and there was much more to it than we had expected. Would recommend a walking stick/pole for the ascent to the castle.

Boho68 September 2012

Perfect day out

We love St Michael's Mount. If the tide is right you can walk across to the mount and then get a boat ride back. The house and surrounding area are very atmospheric and if you are fortunate enough you will get to see the Basking Sharks. A great day out and well worth a visit.

Mrs Ingleson August 2012

Good day out for all the family

Took the ferry as it was high tide. A long queue but with several ferries we didn't have to wait long. Kids enjoyed the ferry ride and the interesting things in the castle. Quite a steep climb on cobbles up to the castle so wished I had worn more sensible shoes but worth the climb. Cafe's were good and also places to picnic. Lovely views from the castle. Spent several hours on St Michael's Mount.

Mr Lewis May 2012

A truly worthwhile visit and highly recommended. But you do need to be physically fit and able to cope with steep uphills on cobbled paths! Not for the elderly or infirm!

Mrs Harding April 2012

Lovely day out

We got there on a small boat. Had a nice scone in the cafe and waked around the house. Lovely day out

Ms Roberts September 2011

Fabulous views on the mount !

The views are amazing and the castle is full of history. A bonus is the castle is still inhabited as a family home, which gives it a nice lived in feel. Gardens look fantastic from the ramparts, but are not open every day. Phone up before you visit to check tide times. We went out by boat, then walked back across the causeway.
The NT cafe is lovely, and you can have an above average waitress served meal.

September 2011

I would recommend everyone to make the walk across to the Mount, it is magical but do watch the tides!

Mrs Hamilton July 2011

ST M's Mount

Well worth being a member of the National Trust to be able to enjoy this treasure. Great afternoon's outing for family - we had our 2 older teenage kids who were very happy to go round the castle. Lovely place to sit and relax too enjoying an ice cream after you've viewed the property. Keep your eye on the tide though - it comes in very quickly but it adds to the fun to have to wade back through thigh-high water!

Mrs Guest June 2011

The view from Sunnyside over St Michael's Mount is magical and a trip there doesn't disappoint. We were impatient for the tide to recede and so began our visit by paddling over the causeway, an adventure in itself. The walk up to the house was an exciting scramble, but not for the infirm. At the top the views were tremendous and the property quite as wacky as the octagonal dairy on the way up suggested it would be. Lunch in the tea shop was one of the best we had during our stay. All in all, a delight. Brilliant for anyone with children. Best not paddle over the causeway if you're taking the buggy though.

Mrs Penney January 2009

Wonderful St Michael's Mount

When in the area there is nothing nicer to do, whatever the weather, than walk or take a boat to the Mount (depending on the tide). At low tide you can meander up the causeway the to the Mount where a nice NT cafe awaits and a steep walk up to the castle (passing over the giant's heart on the way), here the views across the Mount's gardens are second to none. A magestic place.

January 2009

Check the tide times before you leave, as it's great to walk over to the mount. If you have small children it is better to walk or bring a baby carrier as pushing a buggy on the cobbles is really hard work. It's a magical place, nothing quite like it, it's amazing how the access to the mount suddenly appears and then disappears later in the day. There is also a fab outside play area for children with plenty to do for small tots and children up to about 12 years.

January 2009

Sub tropical gardens

Great attraction to visit if you haven't already been. The castle is worth the climb, and the gardens are wonderful - many sub tropical species there which can only be found in this part of England. Well worth a visit.

January 2009

Set out from a beautiful beach, this is a great place for a day out. If the tide is in you can get a boat across to the Mount which is great fun. There are lovely gardens as well as the Mount to explore.

Mrs Pascoe September 2008

A trip to St Michael's Mount is a wonderful way of spending a sunny summer's afternoon or even a beautiful autumn one, if you want to avoid the crowds! The view of the castle in the bay is so well known, it is lovely to get another perspective of the coastline by looking back from the island to Marazion beach and the sweep of the bay to Penzance. To get the full experience you need to walk across the causeway at low tide (there are often puddles!!) but the walk up to the castle itself is very steep, so not a day for heels! The restaurant is nice, and there is also a tea-room/cafe, but we like to buy pasties in Philps at Marazion and sit round the island's harbour to eat them. On your ascent to the castle don't forget to look out for the heart of Cormoran the Giant, now turned to stone...

Mr and Mrs Hurst July 2008

Wonderful five minute trip by sea or if the tide is low, you can walk across the causeway to this fairy tale castle which dominates Mounts Bay. Steep walk up to the castle itself which is not for the faint hearted! Those who would rather not can wander round the little harbour. Good coffee and pasties at the Cafe or there is the Sail Loft Restaurant. N.T. shop. There is plenty to see in the Castle and the views from it are stunning.

Mr Halliday August 2017

Beautiful

Stunning views, gardens, ammenities and the actual theatre itself is worth the trip down alone. Recommended to anyone visiting Cornwall, add the MinackTheatre to your itinerary.

Mrs Mason October 2016

An Absolute Must!

The views from this magical place are gorgeous and all the gardens that are painstakingly laid out between the seats are a real pleasure to see,but the theatre itself is so spectacular that it almost takes your breath away.We have been to Cornwall lots of times and have always promised ourselves a visit to the Minack but this was the first time that we had made it.I have to say that having been once we will certainly be returning.Thank you Rowena Cade for starting this truly magical place!

Miss Heather September 2015

An absolute must!

June 2013

Worth a visit. Wonderful views, sea birds amazing to watch. Warm welcome good cafe, great cakes!

Mr Harris June 2013

A unique experience!

What can one say? This was my second trip to The Minack, but my partners first. She was utterly enthralled - the production of "Mack & Mabel" was fabulous! But, let's be honest, the real star of the show is the theatre itself - absolutely tranquil setting, looking out over the sea and Porthcurno Beach while the production unfurls before you (there is something truly magical about the sound of the sea drifting in during the quiet parts of the show). Really - if you do one thing whilst in Cornwall, please make it a trip to see a play at The Minack Theatre. You surely will not regret it - and it's outstanding value for money too (less than a tenner for a seat)!

Mrs Gage November 2012

Minack Theatre – Spectacular

The story about how the theatre was created is fascinating.

The views from inside the theatre and out to sea are stunning.

Once you have visited the theatre either walk down the footpath or go to the car back at The Telegraph Museum and walk down to Porthcurno Beach. What a way to spend a day.

Anne Gage

Mrs Lincoln September 2012

Amazing

Have wanted to visit Minack for ages & it lived up to expectations, fantastic views & what an amazing story.

Mrs Hubbard August 2012

Wonderful evening at the Minack Theatre

Wonderful evening at the Minack Theatre performance of David Copperfield. The weather on Bank Holiday Monday afternoon had been appalling - pouring rain- but we received text updates from the Minack, and in line with the BBC weather forecast the rain stopped in time for the show and later on the moon shone over the sea. The play was very well done and we all enjoyed it, even the teenage boys. We wrapped up warmly and invested in hire of the Minack padded seat cushions with backs. This year we had stone seats with backs which were much more comfortable than sitting on the grass terraces. I booked the seats online about a month in advance, and I believe they were sold out for the week's run of the play.

August 2012

Squashbox Theatre - Craig

If Squashbox repeats in 2013 ...you must go and see it. Morning shows for children - but equally enthralling for Adults.
Craig is a fantastic performer and you get the chance to see the Minack.

But you will need to book - performances in August are usually sold out a few days in advance.

Miss AGM July 2012

Amazing and great value

I rang the theatre to ask for advice and they were incredibly helpful.Unfortunately the weather was rubbish - but the show went on and we enjoyed a great play in an amazing location - even the weather couldnt ruin the evening. Well worth a visit and good value for money.

Mr Stockdale June 2012

Worth every penny - the history about how the theatre was created is fascinating; the views from inside the theatre and out to sea are stunning.

Mr Lewis May 2012

Excellent attraction with fantastic views.

We tried to book tickets online prior to our visit, but the theatre was fully booked. However, when we visited during the day, we found that the booking office had received some cancellations and we were delighted to be able to get tickets for two days later . Worth checking with the booking office when you visit!

Mr Anderson May 2012

MINACK THEATRE

This is truly uplifting, the story about it is amazing ,the views are simply wonderful. No plays on when we visited but truly a great place to spend some time, free car-park!! decent reasonably priced cafe, friendly staff.

Mr Jones April 2012

Mesmerising

We got tickets to see Titanic The Musical which was being performed to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the sinking. Adult tickets were a very reasonable £8 for the upper terraces, which gave a decent view. We all wrapped up warm with blankets and foam sit mats (essential) and thoroughly enjoyed the show. The backdrop of the sea and cliffs on the opposite side of the bay gave this show special significance. The real water gushing down the steps and the marine distress flare illuminating the sea made this a truly emotional and memorable experience.
Go to the Minack Theatre - you won't be disappointed

Graham & Judy October 2011

Spectacular!

Read the story of Minack Theatre before visiting and then marvel at what you see there!

Ms Savage October 2011

Worth Going

Saw Pirates of Penzance in Sept and was fab. Do take warm clothes even if the weather seems mild and totally exposed to elements! My partner nearly had frost bite on his ears so had to buy a silly hat! Some people who were not dressed for cold weather left at the interval.

Mrs Nash September 2011

Wonderful - everyone should visit this place, truly amazing.

August 2011

A wonderful place to visit, for all the family. Attended chidren's storytelling session on a Tuesday morning (on Tues. & Thurs. morning during summer holidays), which was a great hit with both children and adults. Enjoyed some delicious Cornish pasties in the cafe on site before heading down to Porthcurno beach below - a great day out!Superb views when the weather is fine.

Mrs Hamilton July 2011

Fantastic. Super setting for The Death of Sherlock Holmes which was funny and very entertaining. Wrap up warm, even on a summer's evening, and take cushions to sit on. Plenty of opportunity in the break to wander round and explore,taking photographs, up and down the steps. We bought fish'n'chips in Sennen to eat there which were lovely rather than have the hassle of carrying a picnic round all day.

Tourist July 2011

Great Evening

A superb location, made even better by a great performance.
Will return.

Mrs Weiner June 2011

Marvellous Minack

We loved the Minack: the turquoise sea as a backdrop to the action on the stage. We were there for a matinee on a hot September day in 2010. A traditional production of Gilbert and Sullivan's Mikardo by actors from Cambridge University. Many years ago, a friend had performed in this at the Minack.

Words of warning: the tiers are very steep, and the sun can be very hot: not a venue for the very elderly (who were there when we were, but a couple were overcome by heat). Recommend the canvas seat covers which make the narrow tiered seats, cut from the rock, more comfy.

Mr Powell June 2011

The Minack Theatre

A wonderful venue. Attending at least one event is a must. Take plenty of warm clothing along with a picnic and something hot to drink because you really are exposed to the elements. Early booking is essential for many events. If you love the theatre then a visit to the Minack is not to be missed. Plenty of easy access parking.

March 2010

A stunning location for this original open air theatre. Fantastic views with the possibility of fabulous sunsets. If you are lucky you may also see dolphins. Book early for the summer time plays as it is very popular and remember to take a picnic and lots of warm clothing!

Jean Speake

October 2008

Minack Theatre

Open air theatre built by Rowena Cade in the most stunning cliff top setting near Penzance at Porthcurno.
Whether you attend a performance or simply visit the site (there's the Rowena Cade visitors' centre and a cafe), you'll find the setting utterly breathtaking. I'm still in awe of the determination of Rowena Cade to create this utterly unique theatre where a great variety of imaginative performances take place. The weather is important, so it's a good idea to check the forecast before you book.

- J Wallwork

Ms Nicholas July 2008

This must be the most dramatic setting for an open air theatre in Britain. Book early if you want to go to a performance.

Mr Gray July 2008

Wow is not enough

To say that it has 'wow' factor is not enough. No photograph does it justice. People walk in through the gates for the first time and their jaws hit the floor. Daytime visitors can enjoy the exhibition about Rowena Cade, the single lady who built the theatre with her own hands, and take refreshments in what must be the most spectacularly appointed coffee shop in the country. But it's even better to come on a summer evening when there is a show on. No trip to Penwith is complete without experiencing this unique and wonderful theatre.

Ms Gonzalez August 2015

GREAT WAY TO AVOID PARKING IN ST IVES....

Depending on the tides, Lelant Saltings will either be a lake, or uncovered salt marshes covered with amazing birdlife. Take your binoculars! We saw herons and oystercatchers. The car park is £2.80 to park all day, and the return family train ticket (2 adults + 2 kids) is £8.00. The trains only run every half hour and the queues build quickly, so I would GO EARLY and get into St Ives ahead of the rush.

The train drops you right on Porthminster Beach, so dead easy.

Mrs Day March 2015

train with a view

Perfect trip around the estuary and into the bay at St Ives, then a short walk into beautiful St Ives. Try the Sloop Inn for lunch.

Mrs Pascoe February 2015

A must-do

This is such a beautiful stretch of coastline - we like to park at Lelant and then walk the coast path to St Ives (about 5 miles, with some short steep sections up from beach level); it runs parallel to the train track and alongside the beach. You get to have a great lunch and wander round St Ives as your reward, before hopping on the train and taking the easier option home!

Mr Everett August 2014

Coffee by the beach.

Just up from the Tate at St Ives and on Porthmeor beach, walk to the end of the beach [West End]. There is the West End Bakery, great for Breakfast, Lunch and Coffee. Before the crowds and the beach sitters arrive, have coffee and a bun. Very well priced and the best view of the beach away from the crowds.

Lisa April 2014

Stunning ride with a view

We recently used the train to visit St Ives and what a joy it was. A relaxing ride along the coast, with absolutely breath-taking views. A brilliant way to beat the sometimes crowded car parks in the town centre!

August 2012

A wonderful experience for the whole family, including the dog!! The views from the train are just stunning. St Ives is a very pretty harbour, and well worth a visit, particularly for its art galleries, Cornish pasties, cream teas and clotted cream fudge! There is a lovely beach for the children and Bamaluz beach is specifically for dog owners. A truly wonderful day out.

Mrs Marsden August 2012

Try St Earth station instead. It is often not as busy.

If you go after 10 am car parking is very reasonable for the whole of the day. St Earth is only a very short distance from Lelant and has a wonderful little cafe where you can take refreshments whilst you wait for a train.
Don't forget your family and friends rail card. Return to St Ives for family of 5 is then only £7.60!
Wonderful way to get to St Ives

Liz Arnell May 2012

A must if you are staying in Cornwall!

This must be the most beautiful train journey in the country with stunning views across St Ives Bay (and it saves you the hassle and cost of trying to park in St Ives!)

September 2011

This has to be one of the most picturesque train journeys there is even though it only lasts for about 10 mins.

ladygrey September 2012

Nice but VERY expensive

Agree with comments as far as very tasty, freshly cooked food and great views straight over the sea go. We arrived on the off chance and got a seat on the terrace, it was rather chilly but they gave us rugs! However you pay for the privilege, we are probably not high class diners but £66 for 2 courses for 2 people? Including £6 for what was really quite a small glass of wine? Ouchie. Stick with coffee and get your main meal elsewhere.

August 2012

Superb Food

Absolutely superb lunch at a magnificent location - and service to match

Mr Coates and Mrs O'Neill November 2011

Simply The Best!

Forget Michelin Stars, this must be one of the best restaurants in Cornwall. No need to say any more!

Mrs Holden October 2011

great place on the beach

Walked from Carbis Bay to St Ives on the coastal path - the walk was lovely but somewhat busy. Spotted the beach cafe on our way out and couldn't resist on our way back! Had a good lunch on the beach at the cafe - dogs are allowed so a massive plus for us, then returned back to the station car park at Carbis Bay.

Ms Savage October 2011

Fab

Excellent food/ambiance/service so do try it!

September 2011

Has to be one of the best places to stop for a coffee!!

Mrs Eagon July 2011

Great location and very good food. Service a bit patchy - some new staff being trained?

Mr Watkins July 2011

Simply GREAT!

We were lucky enough to get a table last week and the food was delicious! The atmosphere was really chilled, great staff and a view to die for.

Mr and Mrs Milne January 2011

Not only excellent for the food & view, but award winning too!

January 2010

A delight!

This is a real treasure - we always recommend to friends when they visit St Ives. Beautifully fresh food, lovely staff and the views are just out of this world. If you want to try it out, you can just have coffee and cake - but book for lunch or dinner or you may not get in. It is great for family dining too - they prefer you to eat early in the evening with children and although they don't advertise a children's dinner menu - they do offer a selection of dishes for them.

August 2008

Our favourite restaurant. Excellent food and wine. The Telegraph gave it a 10 out of 10- very rare indeed-we would give it 12 out of 10. The decor and views are outstanding with lovely touches (the wine comes in a beach bucket cooler). Imaginative fresh dishes that are simply mouth watering. Don't miss it!

Mrs Gibson July 2008

A treat!

The Porthminster Beach Cafe is delightful. The staff, location, food and consistant high standards always makes for a fantastic treat! Something to share with family and loved ones alike.

Mrs D September 2015

You won't be disappointed

What a wonderful place to lose yourself in nature discovering plants I had never seen before and some looked like they stepped out of Jurassic Park! We stayed into the evening for a fantastic Miracle Theatre production in the Amphitheatre called The Magnificent Three which was absolutely brilliant, great story, great cast and highly recommended, I will be looking out for their next production. Overall a very pleasing day with ice cream on the beach too, what more could you want!

Mrs McCauley-Tinniswood July 2014

A mini paradise

This was such a wonderful find. A complete tropical paradise hidden away down the creek. You really feel like you have disappeared to a magical world here and it's a great place to escape. Beautiful water gardens and walks through the woods, which eventually lead down to a private secluded beach. Would happily come here time and again. Lovely cafe as well and there's also a cafe on the beach.

Mrs Darvell July 2014

Nice family day out

We visited the gardens on Father's Day (three generations of us!) and it was a lovely day out. It was interesting seeing all the exotic plants and following the path through the gardens to the private beach at the end where an ice cream sat on the beach is a must! The adventure play areas within the gardens were great for the kids.

Mr Gibb June 2014

We hadn't heard about Trebah before we arrived but it proved to be a fabulous day out and the gardens were very special. Better than Eden in some ways and the weather on the day was perfect.
The walk down to the bay was superb. Also enjoyed the shop, cafe and garden centre.

Mrs Haines May 2013

We have been to Trebah several times in the past, but the garden was at it's loveliest this time, with loads of spring flowers as well as the rhododendrons etc.

Mr Chetwode December 2012

I love trebah

Trebah is a brilliant day out, and the beach is gorgeous!!

Mrs Bradford September 2012

Trebah Garden

A really delightful garden with much to see. Although steep in places, there are plenty of benches to rest before venturing further.

The glimpse of the sea as you wend your way through the garden is really beautiful and really well worth the trip down to the bottom.

Well worth a visit time and time again.

Mr Bowry June 2012

Gets better every time

We love Trebah Gardens, they are also dog friendly, though unfortunately we did see evidence that some dog owners were not respecting the fact that clearing up is a must if this is to continue. We really enjoy walking around the gardens and always spend at least three hours doing so. Always something different to see. Already looking forward to our next visit.

Miss Stewart May 2012

We enjoyed that they are clearly continuing to develop and work on the garden in the 5 years since we last visited. Cafe very good and plenty of sheltered outdoor space. Plenty to see in May and an icecream on the beach was a great treat.

May 2012

Trebah Garden

Wonderful garden especially in May when we were there. A beach with a cafe half way round and the ubiquitous crab sandwiches in the cafe near the entrance. We could have spent a whole day here.

September 2011

A great place to visit. Even on a dull day this provided some great views and a fascinating range of plants. The beach was an added bonus. The restaurant provided a good range of dishes, including some gluten free choices.

Miss Manners September 2011

I can only endorse all that has been said before - the gardens are magical and inspirational, with a wonderful collection of hydrangeas as well as a magnificent bamboo thicket. The beach is a dear, with lovely views across the water.

Miss Manners September 2011

I can only endorse all that has been said before - the gardens are magical and inspirational, with a wonderful collection of hydrangeas as well as a magnificent bamboo thicket. The beach is a dear, with lovely views across the water.

July 2011

Worth a visit, even on a wet day. The cream tea in the cafe was so good there is no chance it could ever be matched anywhere else. Enjoyed the shop too. We spent 2 hours in the property although it's not all that large, including time at the cafe. It's advisable to go early when it's really quiet.

Mr and Mrs Wallwork August 2008

Suitable for young and old

I would recommend this garden for anyone. The walks around the garden can be taken at any pace and are endlessly fascinating for young children as well as older relatives. Even those who may not be as agile as they once were will be able to manage a good deal of the garden and there are plenty of places to stop, admire the view and rest. The staff are very helpful, always ready to discuss an unusual plant and the cafe is run by a group of very cheerful women, who provide simple but delicious food.

Ms Nicholas August 2008

A beautiful place, starting with formal gardens at the top, winding down through subtropical exotica to a small beach. We once went there on a winter's day where there was snow at the top of the garden and brilliant sunshine once you went through the doorway onto the beach; my children said it was like going into Narnia!

July 2008

Walking

Trebah Gardens are excellent for all the family - there is also a beach below for children to explore. Kids can take part in the quiz as they walk around the gardens which makes for a more peaceful time for the parents!