Visiting Us Safely

St Michael’s Mount is a tidal island, shaped by nature and history, with a working harbour, historic castle, and terraced gardens, accessed by boat or walking the causeway depending on the tide. Please take a moment to familiarise yourself with the following guidance to help ensure your visit is safe and enjoyable.

Walking the Causeway

• The causeway is only accessible at low tide – please check daily opening times before setting out.
• Surfaces may be wet, slippery and uneven. Sturdy footwear is essential.
• The tide comes in quickly – allow plenty of time to cross.
• Crossing outside of the recommended times is hazardous: the path is uneven, currents can be strong, and visibility is limited once submerged.
• For safety reasons, swimming or wading across the causeway is not advised.
• Vehicles frequently use the causeway to get to and from the island. Please keep to the route and supervise children at all times.

Arriving by Boat

• Boat services are dependent on sea and weather conditions and may be delayed or cancelled at short notice.
• Take care when boarding and disembarking – steps and landings may be wet or uneven. There are unguarded edges and steep drops.
• Always follow the crew’s instructions and keep young children closely supervised.
• All boats are fitted with life rafts and life jackets.

The Harbour & Village

• The harbour is a working environment with boats, equipment and uneven granite surfaces – please watch your step.
• Keep to marked visitor routes and be mindful of service vehicles and staff buggies.
• Dogs must be kept on short leads at all times and are only permitted on the island during set times of year.
• Harbour walls and quaysides can be hazardous, there are steep drops, ladders and unguarded edges – children must be supervised at all times.

The Castle

• Access is via a steep, cobbled and rocky pathway with uneven surfaces, unguarded edges and steep drops that can be slippery in wet weather. There are no handrails in some areas. Sturdy and suitable footwear is essential.
• Inside, some steps are uneven, doorways may be low, and passageways can be narrow. Please take extra care.
• Please note: due to the historic nature of the building, accessibility is limited and not all areas are suitable for those with mobility difficulties.

The Gardens

• The terraced gardens are set on steep, rocky slopes with narrow, uneven paths and steps which can be slippery at times.
• There are no handrails in some areas and there are unguarded edges and steep drops. Suitable footwear is essential.
• Please stay on the garden paths and do not climb onto walls, beds or rock faces.
• The gardens are exposed to the elements – sun protection and drinking water are recommended on warm days.
• Children must be supervised at all times.

Food & Allergen Awareness

• Our cafés and food outlets serve a variety of dishes, including those containing all of the 14 allergens such as nuts, gluten, milk and shellfish.
• Full allergen information is available on request – please speak to a member of staff before ordering.
• While we take great care in food preparation, cross-contamination may occur in busy kitchen environments and we cannot guarantee that any of our food and drink products are completely allergen free.
• If you have a severe allergy, we recommend bringing any necessary medication with you and you are welcome to bring your own food.

General Advice

• Comfortable, sturdy footwear is strongly advised throughout your visit.
• The island is exposed to the elements – please dress appropriately for the weather.
• In the event of an emergency, alert a member of staff immediately.
• First aid support is available on the island at all times.
• Download the island accessibility guide for more detailed information.

St Michael's Mount is a tidal island shaped by nature and history. With care and attention, you can enjoy a safe, memorable and unforgettable visit.