Golden Cock Cottage

August 2019

Another must visit

Fabulous but get there between 9-10 as it gets very very busy...also check website to see when garden is open!

Mr Riemann June 2019

Very special

A crazy place. Copy of Normandy but different. A museum but people still live there. Garden is also spectacular. Short trip by boat is nice.

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.

October 2020

Bev

Magical

September 2020

Mischief Movie Night at the Minack

Fantastic setting and a very entertaining show. The staff were brilliant and the social distancing worked well. If you have the opportunity to visit (for a tour or with tickets for a show) don't miss it. It's an amazing place.

August 2019

Minack theatre

Brilliant, a must, the play was excellent

Mr Riemann June 2019

Best open-air theatre ever

I came here back in the 1970's and was fascinated. I came again now and nothing has changed. Where can you say that? Unique place, great artists (we enjoyed Shakespeare), incredible atmosphere. Out of this world! But take warm clothes, it can be cold later!

Mrs Potts September 2018

Amazing place !

We had booked to see a performance months ago as a friend recommended it. We were not disappointed. This is an amazing place.

Mr Hawkins August 2018

A wonder to see

£5 each to view a theatre seems steep but when you go through the doors and see the view on a sunny day its well worth it. One of the best views Ive ever seen in Cornwall.

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.

October 2020

Just fabulous on every level

The food, staff and views are amazing. An added bonus in these Covid ridden times is the care and attention they have given to ensuring that the environment is as safe as it can be. Great distancing, hygiene protocols, one way system etc. Most importantly, the systems are applied systematically and consistently by the staff. Great job!

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 Andrews October 2020

Fantastic wild beach

The beach is wild and windswept with amazing light and waves rolling in from the Atlantic, a wonderful experience. The cafe food is excellent, particularly the beef sandwiches. We couldn’t understand why the toilets at the cafe were closed and the nearest public loos were a 15 minute uphill walk against the wind, what a shame!

Mrs Goodrum September 2020

Mrs Goodrum

After seal watching we stopped here for a beef sandwich for lunch - absolutely delicious! We did have to wait a bit but as we’re in the COVID era with things taking longer that can be forgiven. Will definitely return.

October 2017

Situated on the headland at the end of the huge Hayle/Gwithian Beach. National Trust owned and offers excellent food. Seating is both indoors and outdoors and justifiably popular. Open during the day and also some evenings.

Mr Donlon November 2016

Great breakfasts and so close to the seals

Lovely breakfasts (full Cornish is massive, honestly it'll keep you going the entire day) and surprisingly good coffee which i didn't expect. Best of it is, it's just a few minutes walk from the seal colony which we visited three times during our stay locally to see their antics at different tide times (best to see them as the tide is going out as they come ashore to rest so there's lots of activity then).

Dr Molyneux October 2012

Outstanding food, drink and view

Our favourite beach cafe in Cornwall. Great food, particularly in the evenings when you can sit upstairs with a view of the beach and watch the sunset (really family friendly - they always spoil our kids). For lunch the wraps are brilliant (Mexican and vegetarian are particularly good) - we get them takeaway and eat them on the beach when body boarding.

Mr Cornish September 2011

Lovely on a sunny day

Great place to stop if you're on a trek to refill your energy levels with local cakes and decent coffee.

Mr Walton September 2011

Breakfast

Its become a 'tradition' for us now to have our final days breakfast at Godrevy Cafe. If you leave on a Saturday you are going to wait, but its worth it. Excellent, wholesome ingredients cooked perfectly and no skimping on portions either. There is so much more that the usual 'full english' - but this is sooooooo nice! Excellent location off the beaten track.

August 2011

Yummy!

Also does excellent cream teas which you can justify eating if you've just returned from a long walk (but don't try going for a walk after eating one!). Can get very crowded and service can take a while, but the food is worth the wait.

July 2011

Mrs Jewell

Fab! The food is freshly cooked and very tasty. The large hot chocolate is especially good after a long coastal walk. The cakes are again home cooked and huge! The ice cream is a treat after a day on the beach. Well worth a visit.

June 2011

Another mention for the breakfast!

It's been mentioned before but who cares. I can confirm that the breakfast IS simply divine. Don't look for a healthy option (have that at home), give yourself a real treat and go for the full English. I'm still dreaming of it :-)

May 2011

Great location - call in here for a full English breakfast - it is to die for - get your day off to a fantastic start. Then walk it off either along the beautiful sandy beach or climb the cliff path to the top and watch the seals in the little secluded cove. A real treat.

July 2008

The largest mug of hot chocolate ever! Lovely freshly cooked food and huge cake portions - a must stop if you are visiting Gwithian.

Mr Henthorn July 2008

Lovely lunches, great for a cake and a big mug of coffee!!

Mrs Ashton September 2015

Great for little ones

We spent a lovely sunny morning here and our 19 month old fed the penguins and goats, had lots of fun playing on the tractor and trailer slide and went on the minature train. This was all before we began to look at the amazing collection of colourful exotic birds. Will definitely go again the next time we are in Cornwall.

Mrs Freeman July 2015

Mrs.Freeman

Wonderful place. Visited twice now and not disappointed at any time. Suitable for adults and children. Lovely relaxing way to spend a day.

Mrs Brooks June 2012

A fab place if you like birds

We love it here! We've stayed in St Erth twice and visited Paradise Park four times! We love birds and you get to see so many different species, many of them endangered. Feed the Rainbow Lorikeets, watch the otters playing, spot the Red Panda up in his tree, get involved in the bird shows, help to feed the penguins (and have your picture taken with one which was hand-reared), see the tiny Red Squirrels playing and eating. Good cafe and a nice outdoor play area for children. Nowhere is too steep so good access for all.

July 2008

Great value for money - especially if you are local. After you pay for your first visit you can get a return ticket for just £2.50 per person. You can spend the whole day, there is plenty to do. We usually arrive around 10.30 feed the penguins, go to the animal corner and feed the goats. Then feed nectar to the birds. We have a ride on the train then have lunch - and stroke a snake! In the afternoon we go inside into the play a area where the adults can join in on all the fun. There is a large outdoor play area as well.

July 2008

Excellent on a dreay day!

Paradise Park is good for a family outing. There is also a really good inside play area for kids with huge slides and a ball park, excellent on a dreary day.