Winter information

What will I discover during winter?

The winter season runs from 01 November to 31 March and entry to the island is free to all visitors.

Winter is a wonderful time to experience the Mount at a gentler pace. With fewer visitors, you’ll discover a quieter, more contemplative side of island life. Wander the cobbled village and historic harbour, before warming up with a hot drink and a slice of freshly baked cake in the Island Café. Browse the shops for seasonal gifts, and step inside the Steward’s House to see a collection of paintings by the renowned Newlyn School artists.

With crisp air, dramatic skies and sweeping sea views, winter offers a truly special atmosphere on the Mount.

What’s open during winter?

During opening hours in winter, you can visit the:

What’s not open?

Castle
The Garden Terraces
Afternoon Tea

How do I visit during winter?

St Michael’s Mount is a tidal island which can be reached via a cobbled causeway when the tide is low. Ferry boats do not run during the winter season.

On some days in winter, depending on how the tides fall during daylight hours, you can only visit the island for a short period. Occasionally, you can’t visit at all. This means it’s very important to check tide times before your visit:

Is the island ever completely closed during winter?

Yes, the island is closed on Saturdays during winter and throughout the year. It may also close in the event of high winds or storms, or because tide times do not correspond with winter daylight hours. We will show a Mount Closure alert on the website and on social media if there are any imminent closures due to bad weather.

Can I bring my dog during winter?

Between November and April, we welcome well-behaved dogs to visit the harbour and village. Please keep your dog on a short lead at all times.

Why is the castle closed during winter?

The castle and church is closed this winter for maintenance works and reopens in the spring.

Why is the garden closed during winter?

The garden terraces are visited by over 140,000 visitors each year. The wear and tear on the Victorian terraces and fragile landscaping necessitates a period of restoration as well as skilled horticultural care. Battered by winter gales and rain, the gardening team will have the gardens ready to reopen in the spring.