February half term in Cornwall

The island will be open Sunday 15 February to Monday 23 February during February half term. Access on and off will be via the causeway and times will vary on each day. The island itself is free to explore, while there is an additional option to purchase a ticket to climb to the castle summit.

Opening times

Climb to the Cannons

This February half term, visitors can climb to the castle summit, where the cannons stand guard and sweeping bird’s-eye views of Mount’s Bay unfold below. Once at the summit, talks provided by our knowledgable senior guides will also be available. If you do not wish to climb to the castle summit, you do not need a ticket to access the island. Tickets will be available to purchase online at the end of January.

The route

Begin your visit by crossing the ancient cobbled causeway and arriving in the harbour village, now home to a small community of islanders. Once a busy trading centre for Cornish tin, the village flourished in the 1800s. At its height, more than 300 people lived and worked here, supported by pubs, a school, a dairy, a pilchard press and a bustling harbour.

The climb

From the village, pass the Victorian Dairy and Dairy Lawn, once home to the Jersey cows that supplied fresh milk to the island, before beginning the ascent up the steep Pilgrim Steps. These steps are believed to have been used by medieval pilgrims on their journey to the summit. The Pilgrim Path is uneven and cobbled, with no handrails in places. Sturdy footwear is essential.

The Well & the Giant’s Heart

For centuries, the island Well provided fresh water for those living and working on the Mount. Nearby, look out for the Giant’s Heart, linked to the legend of Cormoran the Giant, who was defeated by the clever Jack. A Giant's heart is small and dark, can you spot it hidden in the cobbles?

Defences & cannons

Along the route, see the Murdering Hole in the defensive wall, once used to protect the Mount from attack. At the summit, the 18th-century cannons stand watch above Mount’s Bay. Although largely ceremonial, the cannons were last used during the Napoleonic Wars.

Cromwell’s Passage & St Michael

Below the cannons lies Cromwell’s Passage, where Parliamentarian troops once attempted, and failed, to storm the Mount. Nearby is the spot where St Michael is said to have appeared in AD 495, warning local fishermen of approaching danger.

Summit talks

Taking place on the hour and half hour, our senior guides will be hosting complimentary 15-minute talks exploring the history of the island and the castle. These talks are weather-dependent and may be subject to cancellation.

The descent & accessibility

Follow the cobbled path back down towards the harbour village, taking time to enjoy the changing views of the island as you return. Paths to the summit are steep, cobbled and uneven, with no handrails in places. Wheelchairs and pushchairs cannot access the summit. Sensible footwear is strongly recommended.

Five Little Doves children family castle — Image credit © Five Little Doves

What will be open?

Entry to the island is free during this period, which means visitors can explore the harbour and village without the need to buy a ticket. The climb to the summit is an optional experience available with a ticket that can be purchased online from the end of January.

The Island Café, shops and art gallery, will also be open to all visitors.

What time can I visit?

Access on and off will be via the causeway only, as boats do not run during this time of the year. Opening and closing times will therefore vary each day with the tides - please see the walking times calendar for exact timings to help you to plan your visit.

Opening times

Dogs

Dogs are welcome on the island during this period in the harbour, village, shops and café. This does not include the castle summit experience, the castle paths or Steward’s House.

National Trust Members

During February half term access to the island is free for everyone, so you do not need proof of membership. If you are booking a castle summit ticket, your National Trust membership type will be verified on arrival, so please book your free tickets according to the numbers in your party and bring your current, valid membership cards with you on the day.