St Michael's Mount (National Trust)

This iconic island rises gracefully to the church and castle at its summit. Accessible on foot at low tide across a causeway, at other times it is reached by a short evocative boat trip. The oldest surviving buildings date from the 12th century, when a Benedictine priory was founded here.

Following the English Civil War, the island was acquired by the St Aubyn family, who still live in the castle. In the intervening years many additions and alterations were made to convert it for use as a mansion house. Fascinating rooms from different eras include the mid-18th-century Gothick-style Blue Drawing Room.

Sensible shoes are advisable, as causeway and paths are cobbled and uneven. Steep climb to castle. Unsuitable for prams and pushchairs. Passages in the castle are narrow, so some delays may occur at the height of the season.