Days out in Cornwall in the Summer Holidays

Looking for inspiration for summer adventures in Cornwall? Make your way to the Mount for a day full of discovery, history, and breathtaking scenery. Step inside the iconic castle to uncover tales of legend and lore, explore the boutique shops for one-of-a-kind treasures, and enjoy a relaxing break in the café or indulge in a classic Afternoon Tea.

Stroll through the vibrant terraced gardens, alive with colour and offering panoramic views that are ideal for a peaceful wander. Be sure to visit the Steward’s House gallery, where artwork by Newlyn School painters captures the spirit of life in west Cornwall before the mid-1900s.

Take time to explore the charming village and harbour, where the gentle rhythm of island life and early summer blooms create a serene setting. Access the island on foot via the historic causeway at low tide, or hop on a boat and enjoy the journey across the glistening sea.

Be sure to check our access calendar to plan your journey.

Discover the castle

Journey through time as you wander the castle’s evocative halls and impressive historic chambers. Once a medieval priory, later a coastal fortress, and now a beloved family home, the castle has stood witness to centuries of transformation—each room revealing a different chapter of its remarkable story.

Friendly guides are on hand throughout your visit, eager to share intriguing tales, legendary folklore, and the rich history behind the castle’s evolution into the present-day residence of the St Aubyn family, who continue to call it home.

Please note: Advance booking is essential for those wishing to visit the castle.

Venture into the gardens

Venture beyond the castle and discover a garden where history and nature intertwine. First laid out in 1878 for Sir John St Aubyn (later the 1st Lord St Levan), the terraced landscape was crafted to enchant—and it continues to captivate visitors today. Once a playground for a family of eleven, the garden is now a haven of surprises, where bold aloes and agaves emerge from granite ledges, tulbaghias sway gently, and aromatic herbs like rosemary, lavender, and lampranthus spill across sunlit terraces.

Perched on steep slopes and nurtured by a unique microclimate, the garden flourishes in conditions that defy its coastal setting. The granite absorbs and stores the day’s warmth, releasing it slowly into the cool evening air—creating the perfect environment for vibrant, exotic plant life to thrive despite the salty winds and sea spray.

Please note: the gardens are closed on Saturdays.

Advance booking is essential to enjoy the full beauty of the gardens.

Food and Drink on the Island

This summer, there’s plenty to satisfy every craving—whether you're after a speedy snack or a relaxing indulgence. Tuck into warm Cornish pasties, sweet pastries, and just-baked cakes, or pick up a children’s lunch box for little explorers. Locally crafted ice creams add a cool treat to sunny days, ideal for enjoying as you take in the coastal scenery or stroll along the shore.

Seasonal Pop-ups
Keep an eye out for our seasonal pop-ups offering a variety of tasty options during busier times. From Moomaid ice creams and cold drinks, doughnuts, hot drinks and cakes.

Afternoon Tea in the Harbour Loft
Savour a luxurious Afternoon Tea in the elegant setting of the Harbour Loft, where expansive views of Mount’s Bay create a breathtaking backdrop. This popular experience fills up quickly, so be sure to book in advance to secure your table.

Island Café
Relax and refuel with a selection of hot drinks, light lunches, and sweet treats in a laid-back, welcoming setting.

Getting to the Island

The island is open daily from 10:00 to 17:00, except on Saturdays when it is closed. Access is either by walking the ancient cobbled causeway or by boat depending on the tides, which change daily.

To plan your visit and check the best times to cross, please refer to our access calendar via the link below.

National Trust members

When you book tickets for the castle or garden, your National Trust membership will be checked on arrival. Please ensure you book the correct number of tickets for the members in your group and bring valid, up-to-date membership cards with you on the day of your visit.